Komodo's 2026 Daily Visitor Cap: What Divers Need to Know
Starting in April 2026, the Indonesian government is enforcing a strict daily visitor cap of 1,000 people across core zones of Komodo National Park. This is the most significant policy change affecting Komodo tourism in years, and it has direct implications for divers.
Key Details
| Detail | Info |
|---|
| Implementation date | April 2026 |
| Daily cap | 1,000 visitors across core park zones |
| Who is counted | All visitors — divers, snorkellers, island trekkers, and boat passengers |
| Enforcement | Through the government's digital booking and entry permit system |
| Purpose | Conservation — reducing pressure on reefs, wildlife, and land ecosystems |
How This Affects Divers
- Advance booking is essential: Park entry permits must be secured before arrival. During peak months (July–September), daily allocations may fill weeks in advance.
- Dive operators will manage permits: Most dive centres and liveaboard operators will secure park entry permits on your behalf as part of your booking. Confirm this when you book.
- Peak season impact: The cap will be most felt during July through September, when tourist numbers historically exceed 1,000 per day. Shoulder season visitors (April–June, October–November) are less likely to be affected.
- Liveaboard guests: Multi-day liveaboard guests require permits for each day they enter the park, using multiple allocations across their trip.
Positive Impact for Divers
The visitor cap also brings benefits:
- Less crowded dive sites: Fewer boats at popular sites like Batu Bolong and Manta Point means a better underwater experience
- Reduced environmental impact: Lower visitor numbers reduce pressure on reefs, anchorages, and marine life
- Higher quality experience: Fewer divers in the water means better marine life encounters and less disturbance at cleaning stations
Action required: If you are planning a Komodo dive trip from April 2026 onward, book your diving and confirm park entry permits well in advance, especially for peak season travel.
