Things to Do in East Nusa Tenggara

Komodo National Park, located in the middle of the Indonesian archipelago, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its biodiversity and most famous inhabitants, the Komodo dragon. The world’s largest lizard -- sometimes reaching more than 9 feet (3 meters) in length -- are found only on these beautiful and desolate volcanic islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar.

No matter which of the three islands in the park you visit, you’re almost guaranteed to see a dragon or two, but you might also spot Timor deer, water buffalo, wild boar, Rinca rats, wild horses, fruit bats or long-tailed macaque monkeys. The islands also represent one of the riches marine environments in Indonesia, and the diving opportunities on the reef just off the coast are top notch. Outdoor enthusiasts will find hiking trails (though you’ll need a guide) and smaller islands only accessible by kayak.

Located on a rock formation just east of central Labuan Bajo, Batu Cermin Cave (Mirror Rock) gets its name from an impressive natural display that takes place inside. The tunnel-like cave carved into the dark stone of the island has a hole at the top, and for about an hour each day, the sun shines through the hole and reflects off the slick, mirror-like rock surfaces within.

Even when the light isn’t shining, visitors to Batu Cermin Cave can observe bats fluttering around inside, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding island or walk through the surroundings forests, where it’s possible to spot long-tailed monkeys and wild boars. You can hire flashlights from the rangers at the cave entrance, but they’re not always in the best condition, so consider bringing your own.