Labuan Bajo is situated on the westernmost tip of Flores Island, part of the East Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. Indonesia is an extensive archipelago comprising over 17,000 islands. Labuan Bajo is positioned within this vast network of islands specifically in the Lesser Sunda Islands. This chain of islands extends from Bali in the west to Timor in the east. Labuan Bajo’s strategic location within this archipelago makes it a critical access point for exploring the central and eastern parts of Indonesia, particularly the marine and terrestrial treasures of the Komodo National Park.

Flores itself is one of the many islands in the Lesser Sunda Islands.

Labuan Bajo lies approximately 500 kilometers east of Bali.

The most efficient way to travel between these two destinations is by air, with direct flights connecting Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Labuan Bajo’s Komodo Airport (LBJ).

This journey by air takes around 1.5 hours. The close proximity to Bali makes Labuan Bajo an attractive side trip for travelers looking to explore more of Indonesia’s natural wonders beyond the popular tourist hubs.

Labuan Bajo is the nearest urban center to Komodo National Park, which is located just a short boat ride away.

The park encompasses several islands, including Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, each offering unique experiences and landscapes. Komodo Island, the most famous within the park, is renowned for its population of Komodo dragons, the largest living species of lizard. The park’s marine environment is equally spectacular, featuring some of the richest biodiversity in the world, with pristine coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds.

Flores Island, named by Portuguese colonists, is a long, narrow island known for its rugged terrain, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Labuan Bajo, being on the western edge of Flores, acts as a focal point for tourism on the island. Flores stretches approximately 375 kilometers east to west, and Labuan Bajo is one of the main urban centers on the island, playing a crucial role in the local economy through tourism and fishing.