The Komodo Dragon, is also known as the Komodo monitor, being a member of the monitor lizard family, Varanidae, which today has but one genus, Varanus.

Komodo National Park is located in the Lesser Sunda Islands between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores. The island of Komodo lies at a distance of 200 nautical miles to the east of Bali, and seven degrees below the equator.

The area around the Komodo Islands is world famous for diving and snorkelling. Manta rays and cetaceans are often seen.  There are several experienced dive operators in Labuan Bajo.

Operators for diving packages are:

The Bajo Komodo Eco Lodge is located near Labuan Bajo on Flores. It is an ideal place to base yourself for visits to Komodo National Park, or for diving or snorkelling.

The lodge features the island's best amenities, including:

• 6 rooms with AC, fan, hot water and phone
• 4 rooms in two cottages with AC, fan and hot water
• Complimentary breakfast
• Pool
• Free airport transfers
• A restaurant serving three meals per day at reasonable prices
• A simple bar
• Bottled drinking water supplied
• Information, books and binoculars for bird and butterfly watching
• Affordable vehicle hire with modern vehicles and experienced drivers
• Masks/Snorkels for hire (no fins)
• Storage area for diving gear
• Tour information to Komodo National Park
• Boat pick-up from the beach for snorkelling, diving or river safari

NOTE on MALARIA: It is wise to take a prophylactic in Flores, to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and trousers at night, preferably in light colours. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark blue and black! All rooms have mosquito nets, screens, electric mosquito plugs and complimentary insect repellent.