This year, I decided on a spontaneous 4D3N trip from Lombok to Labuan Bajo.
To be honest, I was a bit hesitant before the trip. The thought of spending days on a boat sounded tiring. But my curiosity to witness the beauty of Sumbawa and East Flores was stronger than my doubts. And from the very first day, I realized this journey would turn into one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
Day One: Setting Sail from Lombok to Kenawa Island and the Tambora Ocean
Our first destination was Kenawa Island in Sumbawa. The moment I set foot on this little island, I was greeted by a vast savanna painted in golden green. In the distance stood a small hill, almost inviting me to climb it. From the top, a breathtaking 360-degree view unfolded: crystal-clear blue waters surrounding the tiny island, as if it had been carefully placed in the middle of the ocean.
Day Two: Saleh Bay - An Unforgettable Swim with Whale Sharks
The second day was the peak of both adrenaline and awe. Early in the morning, our boat anchored at Saleh Bay. It was here that one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life happened: swimming with a whale shark.
The rest of the day was spent sailing toward the Komodo National Park area. When night fell, the sky above the boat turned into a canvas full of stars. Sitting on the deck, gazing at the galaxy so vividly clear, felt like a gift from nature itself.
Day Three: Loh Liang, Pink Beach, and Padar Island
Loh Liang
The third day was truly full of surprises. Our boat finally anchored at Loh Liang, the main gateway to the Komodo Tour. This was the moment I finally got to see a komodo dragon in real life a prehistoric creature I had only ever watched on television.
We walked along a dry forest trail accompanied by a local ranger. My feelings were mixed, somewhere between awe and caution. The sound of snapping twigs, rustling leaves, and birds calling in the distance made the atmosphere feel even more alive. Suddenly, the ranger pointed to a komodo dragon lying lazily on the ground. Its body was massive, its color almost blending with the brown earth. Its movements were slow, yet it carried an aura of authority and danger that was impossible to ignore.
From Loh Liang, the boat continued its journey to Pink Beach. The moment I arrived, I was mesmerized by its pink-colored sand, a natural blend of white sand and red coral fragments. The view was truly captivating.
Snorkeling here turned out to be an unforgettable experience. The water was crystal clear, the coral reefs were bursting with colors, and schools of small fish swam freely among them. It felt like stepping into another world, so peaceful and alive. By late afternoon, sitting on the shore while enjoying the sea breeze made me realize that this place is truly a little slice of paradise.
