Kalong Island - TN Komodo

Komodo National Park still has nature panorama that not to be missed. In this marine area with small islands there is an island named Kalong Island with the exotic scenery. Local residents name Kalong (bats) because this small island is surrounded by mangrove forest and thousand of bats. The total area of the island is not more than five hectares. Every day, domestic and international tourists come to Kalong Island to see thousands of bats, especially before sunset.

Kalong Island is located approximately 8 km from Labuan Bajo Port by speedboat. It can be reached less than one hour. This is one of popular spot that becomes a main entrance for tourists to visit Komodo Island and Rinca Island. Kalong Island is the mangrove forest area and it has an important role to balance to nature, especially the sea. As original habitat for bats, you are suggested to come when the day almost dark because at the day they sleep or just hanging on the tree over the island. Usually, the participants that join in the sailing trip, they will be there around at 18.00 local time. The ship will go along the side where the sunset can be seen clearly. The rest of light from the sun becomes the background of millions of bats. They fly energetically by making a noise and thundering toward Labuhan Bajo. This moment is scheduled to make the participants able to see the rite of bats when they come out from the island.

That is why the area of Kalong island becoming crowded at sunset. You will stay there and continue your journey to other islands around Kalong Island. Kalong Island is an unpopulated island and you can go inside because the topography around the island is dominated by dense mangrove forest and you cannot go through it. Besides that, the island is also occupied by big snakes.

Kalong Island become one of tourist destinations for visitors who want to go to Komodo National Park. The beauty of the island and clear water will accompany you along the journey. If you arrive at the day, you still can have fun by snorkeling or diving. These activities become alternative ways you can do while waiting sunset. While diving, you can enjoy natural coral reefs that still well-maintained. The tourist destinations around Kalong Island are Loh Buaya in Rinca Island that is place where you can see gigantic reptile.