Labuan Bajo Travel Guide: A Laid-Back Stop Before and After Komodo
Labuan Bajo is often seen as just a gateway to Komodo National Park—but in this Labuan Bajo travel guide, we share how this charming town and its surroundings offer more than a transit point. Whether you’re arriving before or after your Komodo boat trip, this guide highlights the best spots to eat, stay, and relax without the usual tourist rush.
Getting to Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo is easily accessible by air. Flights arrive multiple times a day from Bali, Ende, Maumere and other parts of Indonesia. You’ll land at Komodo International Airport, which is just a 10-minute drive from town. Taxis and hotel shuttles are available right outside the terminal. We flew with Garuda and booked the flight through Trip.com.
Our Time in Labuan Bajo
Before the Boat Tour: Rainy Pools and Local Flavours
We arrived in Labuan Bajo on a rainy afternoon after a short flight from Maumere. After checking into Bintang Flores Hotel, we had lunch at Warung Makan Ibu Asni, where we tried Nasi Pecel, Soto Ayam, and Risol Mayo. The hotel had a pool where we relaxed in the drizzle—tropical and moody. For dinner, we went to Taman Laut Handayani, a local seafood spot that served simple but tasty dishes with a harbour view.
After the Boat Tour: Comfort at Sudamala
After days on a boat, Sudamala Komodo Resort felt like luxury. The bed was the comfiest of the entire trip, and the whole resort was lush and peaceful. Upon arrival we were welcomed with a cold towel, welcome drink, and even a short head & shoulder massage. We didn’t feel the urge to go back into town—instead, we stayed around the hotel.
There were bean bags on the beach for sunset, and a great local warung nearby: Warung Bunda Ummi. Their Soto Ayam was so good we went back twice. For coffee, Pedro Roastery had excellent iced coffee, also just a short walk from the resort. The resort runs a free shuttle into town every hour, but we didn’t use it much—we were happy right where we were.
Things to Do in Labuan Bajo
Although we didn’t visit the typical attractions this time, Labuan Bajo offers more than just Komodo tours. You could:
- Hike to Sylvia Hill or Amelia Sea View Point for sunset
- Explore Batu Cermin Cave
- Visit local markets in town
- Enjoy a rooftop drink at one of the many new cafés or bars
We had researched all of this before arriving—but after the boat, we decided to take it easy instead.
Where we ate in Labuan Bajo
In town:
- Warung Makan Ibu Asni: Great local food in a casual setting
- Taman Laut: Popular seafood restaurant with views of the water
Near Sudamala Resort:
- Warung Bunda Ummi: Local and delicious Soto Ayam
- Pedro Roastery: Great spot for coffee lovers
Where we stayed in Labuan Bajo
Bintang Flores Hotel: Affordable and centrally located. Basic but did the job.
Sudamala Resort: Peaceful, green, and the most comfortable bed of our trip. A great pick if you’re looking for some pampering after a Komodo tour.
Related guides
Interested in exploring more of Flores and Komodo? Check out our other travel guides:
- Flores and Komodo Itinerary: 10-Day Travel Guide
- Moni Travel Guide: Volcano Views, Village Life & Hidden Hot Springs on Flores
- Maumere Travel Guide: Beach Bliss, Snorkeling Adventures & a Quiet Escape on Flores
- Three Days Sailing Around Komodo
Labuan Bajo FAQ
Yes—especially if you’re looking to unwind. While Komodo is the main draw, the town and surrounding area have enough charm and food options to warrant a stay.
2 to 3 days before or after a Komodo trip is perfect. More if you want to explore beyond town.
Definitely. Try Soto Ayam, grilled fish, or Nasi Pecel at small warungs.
