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The vast majority of divers reach Komodo via Bali, making the Bali to Labuan Bajo connection the most important travel leg to plan. Here are all your options, from fastest to most adventurous.
Flying from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali to Komodo International Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo is the fastest and most reliable option.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Flight time | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Airlines | Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Wings Air, AirAsia |
| Frequency | Multiple daily flights |
| One-way cost | IDR 600,000–2,000,000 (~$40–130 USD) depending on season and advance booking |
| Baggage | Typically 20–23 kg checked, 7 kg carry-on (check your airline) |
Booking tip: Flights are cheapest when booked 4 to 8 weeks in advance. Peak season (July–September) sees significant price increases and full flights — book as early as possible.
Several liveaboard operators run crossing routes from Bali to Labuan Bajo (or the reverse), combining transit with diving along the way. These multi-day voyages typically last 7 to 11 nights and stop at dive sites across Sumbawa, Sangeang Api volcano, Moyo Island, and Komodo National Park.
This option is ideal for divers who want to maximise their diving and experience the full island chain. Prices range from $2,000 to $7,000+ depending on the vessel. Crossings are most commonly offered during seasonal transitions in April to May and October to November.
ASDP operates a ferry from Bali (Benoa or Padang Bai) through Lombok and Sumbawa to Labuan Bajo. The journey takes 36 to 48+ hours across multiple legs with overnight stops. While extremely cheap, this option is impractical for most divers due to the time commitment and unpredictable schedules.
Adventurous travellers sometimes island-hop through Lombok, Sumbawa, and Flores using a combination of ferries, buses, and domestic flights. This can take 3 to 7 days and is better suited as a broader Indonesia travel experience rather than a direct diving transfer.
Whichever route you choose, plan to arrive in Labuan Bajo at least one full day before your first dive or liveaboard departure. This buffers against flight delays, gives you time to register with your dive operator, fit equipment, and adjust to the local timezone. If coming from a long international flight, an extra rest day helps combat jet lag and ensures you are well-rested for diving.