Tatawa Besar Komodo National Park

Tatawa Besar is accessible only by boat from Labuan Bajo, Flores. You can book day trips or liveaboard tours that include this dive site. Flights to Labuan Bajo (LBJ) are available from major Indonesian cities like Bali and Jakarta. +1

Boat tours are the primary mode of transport. Options range from shared open trips to private charters and liveaboards, offering different levels of comfort and itinerary flexibility. +1

Public ferries are generally not available for tourists to reach the specific dive sites like Tatawa Besar. Organized boat tours are the standard way to explore the park.

Travel time varies depending on the boat and the specific itinerary, but it can take anywhere from 1 to several hours to reach Tatawa Besar from Labuan Bajo.

Yes, many operators offer day trips from Labuan Bajo that include snorkeling or diving at Tatawa Besar and other nearby sites.

Yes, entry into Komodo National Park requires a conservation fee, often referred to as a 'park ticket.' This fee usually covers access to multiple sites within the park.

Park fees can vary and may include entrance fees, diving fees, and activity fees. It's best to check with your tour operator for the most up-to-date pricing, as it can change.

Tickets are typically purchased through your tour operator as part of your package. Some official entry points may also sell them, but booking in advance with a reputable company is recommended.

Often, there are separate fees for diving and snorkeling activities within the park, in addition to the general entrance fee. Confirm with your tour provider.

Some tour operators offer discounts or package deals. For example, one TikTok creator mentioned a discount code for a Komodo boat tour.

Tatawa Besar is famous for its manta rays, sea turtles (especially green turtles), cuttlefish, and a vibrant array of soft and hard corals. You might also spot reef sharks and various reef fish. +6

Due to strong currents, Tatawa Besar is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. Beginners should discuss their experience with their divemaster and consider calmer sites if they are not comfortable with drift diving.

Drift diving involves letting the current carry you along the reef. Tatawa Besar is a prime drift diving location, offering an exhilarating experience for those comfortable with it. +1

In the local language, 'Tatawa Besar' translates to 'Big Laugh,' a fitting name for a site that brings smiles to divers' faces due to its beauty.

Standard scuba diving gear is required. Many liveaboard and day trip operators provide equipment, but it's wise to confirm what's included. A dive computer is recommended for managing dives in currents.

The site offers fantastic opportunities for wide-angle shots of manta rays and turtles, as well as macro photography of smaller marine life and colorful corals. +2

A GoPro with an underwater housing and wide-angle lens is popular for capturing the expansive underwater scenes. DSLRs or mirrorless cameras with underwater housings are also excellent choices. +2

Be patient and let the mantas approach you. Maintain a safe distance and avoid chasing them. Focus on capturing their graceful movements.

Use a faster shutter speed to freeze the motion of the water and marine life. Experiment with different angles to convey the sense of movement and power.

Yes, the soft and hard corals are very vibrant. Ensure your camera settings are adjusted for good color rendition, especially if shooting with natural light.