Before you start
Komodo National Park and other Lesser Sunda Islands can be accessed from the east via Labuan Bajo, Flores, or from the west via Labuan Lombok, or Sumbawa Besar. Determining the most suitable access point will depend on which islands you plan to visit. For more details, check out our Map & Orientation page.
Air
Labuan Bajo (Flores), Lombok and Sumbawa Besar (west Sumbawa) and Bima (east Sumbawa) all have domestic airports. Several airlines offer connecting services daily from Denpasar, Bali. You can find and book flights online with tiket.com or a reputable travel agent once you’re on the ground in Indonesia.
Land & Sea
This little used third option takes plenty of planning but it’s a good alternative for island hopping between Bali and Flores via Lombok and Sumbawa Islands. This option involves travelling across the islands via public transport or scooter and crossing between the islands using local boats or public ferries. Flexibility and a bit of time up your sleeve is the key to making this option work for you but it’s certainly a great way of seeing more of these islands.
Sea
Pelni (Indonesia’s national shipping company) operates passenger service links between Benoa Habour, Bali and Labuan Bajo, Flores via Lembar Harbour, Lombok and Bima, Sumbawa. Previously, these services operated on a fortnightly schedule, but as of April 2017, the Pelni website was indicating they are now more frequent with twice weekly departures. You can check the latest ferry schedules yourself on the Pelni website or through one of the many booking and travel agents once you’re on the ground in Indonesia.
For most travellers, the infrequent Pelni services rarely suit. More convenient local ferries and small boats operate between Labuan Bajo, Bima or Sape (Sumbawa) and Labuan Lombok several times weekly. Schedules change regularly though and it is impossible to book ahead. You’ll need to make inquiries regarding departure dates and times at the local wharf a day or two before you want to travel. As always when catching a local ferry, we recommend you arrive at the wharf at least two hours prior to departure.
For more details on sea connections between Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa and Flores, please click on the links and refer to the Getting In & Out pages for each of those destinations.