Dive into Labuan Bajo's underwater paradise

The gateway to Komodo National Park has one of the world's richest fish fauna, with at least 1,320 species

- Jaclynn Seah

LABUAN BAJO, Indonesia — The emerald islands, blush-pink beaches and Komodo dragons may be what first draw people to the rising star of Indonesia's "New Balis," an initiative by the Indonesian government to diversify tourism destinations. They include Lake Toba in Sumatra and Borobudur in Java, home to the ancient temple of the same name.

But it is what lies beneath Labuan Bajo's turquoise waves that keeps me coming back for more — an underwater paradise of vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life that is a scuba diver's dream.

It has comparable diving to regional hot spot Raja Ampat, and is easier to reach. Renowned for hosting over 75 per cent of known coral species, Labuan Bajo also has one of the world's richest fish fauna, with at least 1,320 species.

The name Labuan Bajo means "Harbour of the Bajo people," named for the indigenous sea nomads of this region who were accomplished sailors and fishermen. Today, it is the gateway to Komodo National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site.

EMBRACING CHANGE

I first visited Labuan Bajo in 2016, then a quiet seaside village where all amenities could be found along the main street that hugs the coastline.

As I exit the airport almost a decade later in June, it is apparent how much the town has changed. Partially completed buildings clutter up a much busier main street and building cranes dot the once-empty green slopes of surrounding hills, all in anticipation of more visitors to come.

Labuan Bajo used to be accessible only by domestic connections, mostly via hubs like Jakarta and Bali, but Komodo Airport converted into an international airport in 2024.

I take a three-hour direct flight from Singapore to Labuan Bajo via former low-cost carrier Jetstar Asia, which ceased operations in July. Scoot plans to take over this route, with flights set to launch between October and March if approved.