Komodo National Park is located within Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, it is home to the world’s largest lizard – the Komodo dragon.
This national park consists of the three large islands of Komodo, Padar and Rinca, as well as 26 smaller ones. Accessible only by boat, the islands offer unparalleled views and easy hikes on grassy slopes. Visitors to Komodo can enjoy world-class snorkelling in warm turquoise waters abundant with marine life, as well as dramatic white sandy beaches.
However, the reason the vast majority of travellers head to Komodo is to the animal that has made this part of Indonesia famous across the world. The Komodo dragon is the largest lizard in the world, growing to lengths of more than three metres, and is known to take down large prey like deer and water buffalo.
In 1969, American biologist Walter Auffenberg moved to the island of Komodo to study these famous lizards. He noticed that when large animals like water buffalo were injured by dragons, they soon developed fatal infections. Based on this observation, but no actual evidence, he suggested that the dragons use bacteria as a form of venom. When they bite prey, they flood the wounds with the microbes in their mouths, which debilitate and kill the victim. This explanation is found in textbooks, wildlife documentaries, interpretative signage in zoos, and more. It's also wrong... In 2009, Bryan Fry from the University of Queensland discovered the true culprit behind the dragon’s lethal bite, by putting one of them in a scanner. The dragon has venom glands, which are loaded with toxins that lower blood pressure, cause massive bleeding, prevent clotting and induce shock. Rather than using bacteria as venom, the dragons use actual venom.
Explore the islands of Indonesia with acclaimed wildlife photographer Nick Garbutt in search of some of Asia’s unique and iconic wildlife. Beginning in Sulawesi, we look to photograph the characterful crested black macaques before venturing to Komodo to see the world’s largest lizard. Find out more about Z) Primates & Komodo Dragons
The Malay Archipelago is one of the planet’s greatest biodiversity hotspots. Join Mike Dilger on this unforgettable journey to discover its best wildlife experiences. What better way to appreciate Indonesia’s wildlife than by visiting three of its most contrasting islands and finishing with an exclusive cruise. Find out more about Wildlife of Indonesia with Mike Dilger
The Phinisi Felicia is the largest boat in the Plataran fleet, accommodating 12 guests on board. Built in the traditional Indonesian style with two masts and made from locally-sourced materials, the Phinisi Felicia is the perfect choice to explore the islands of Komodo National Park in comfort. Find Out More about Plataran Phinisi Felicia
The Tiger Blue is a superbly comfortably yet traditional Indonesian sailing yacht and the perfect base from which to sail the azure waters of the Komodo National Park. It blends comfortable cabins, excellent food and guides with the traditional wooden, two mastered design of a phinisi. Find Out More about Tiger Blue
