"Komodo National Park" Ancient Animals That Are Still Alive Today

Komodo National Park was established in 1980 which is located in Komodo District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia.

Yes, Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis) are ancient and rare species that are almost extinct, you can only find them in Komodo National Park. The Komodo dragon is a large creature similar to a giant lizard with a length of 2-3 m and a weight of up to 165 kg, or 100 kg on an empty stomach.

Due to its uniqueness and rarity, Komodo National Park was declared a World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986. It was first scientifically researched in 1911 by JKH Van Steyn and since then the conservation goal has expanded to protect all biodiversity, both sea ​​and land.

Komodo National Park includes 3 main islands, namely Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, as well as many other smaller islands which together have a land area of ​​603 km². The total area of ​​Komodo National Park is currently 1,817 km². Extended to 25 km² (Banta Island) and 479 km² of marine waters will result in a total area of ​​up to 2,321 km².

In the Komodo National Park area, you can also find horses, wild bulls, deer, male wild boars, snakes, monkeys, and various types of birds. In addition, Komodo National Park has amazing underwater biota. Divers say that the waters of Komodo are one of the best dive sites in the world.

6 Things To Look For When Visiting Komodo National Park

1. Follow Ranger's Instructions & Explanations

Ranger is your guide when exploring Komodo Island National Park. Here the Ranger's function is to protect and provide information and preserve the life of the Komodo dragon on several scattered islands.

So make sure during the briefing before trekking you listen carefully to each Ranger's directions and instructions. This is for your own safety, so try removing your headphones or stop chatting and playing on your phone while the ranger is giving directions. While on the road, listen to all the ranger commands when you meet Komodo.

2. Walk behind Ranger

Normally a Ranger can handle a maximum of 5 KNP visitors or tourists.

It's a good idea to always be and walk behind the ranger, because if you pretend to walk in front of or overtake the ranger, we sometimes don't know the aggressive movements of Komodo dragons or dangerous animals such as snakes camouflaged like rocks.

Remember, on Komodo Island there are hundreds of Komodo dragons and other wild animals!

3. Don't Make Sudden Movements

When trekking and meeting a large Komodo dragon walking towards you, don't make any sudden movements or scream hysterically! What is meant by sudden movement here is; Jumping or dodging suddenly or excited, even though the Komodo dragon is still far away!

Because with this sudden movement the Komodo dragon will think you are a prey that deserves to be chased. The normal running speed of Komodo dragons can reach 18-20 kilometers per hour, just follow the rhythm of the steps and directions from your ranger.

4. Don't Run or Wave Anything

While in the jungle of Komodo Island National Park, don't run. Even though there are dragons approaching you. The most effective way is to walk sideways avoiding to the other side without causing sudden movements. Stay calm! komodo will not chase you.

It is forbidden to pass on any objects, such as hats, scarves, and cloth. Even if you wear a hijab, it's a good idea to clip the remaining fabric on your chest or on your shoulders with a needle or safety pin so it doesn't wave when blown by the wind. Because the Komodo dragon sees it as swinging meat. He will run fast to you.

5. Avoid Visiting During Menstruation

Female tourists are better off if they don't go to Komodo Island National Park if they are menstruating or menstruating.

The reason is, the smell of dragons is very sharp with the fishy smell of blood. If a woman is menstruating, not a dragon will come over. But many will come. Because the gusts of wind carry the smell of blood and dragons can smell up to a distance of 5 Km.

But if you still insist on joining, be sure to report your condition to the Ranger and stay close to the ranger. If the ranger says no problem, usually you will be asked to always be behind the ranger. But if the ranger says you can't come, it's a good idea to go back to the ship.

6. Avoid Visiting During The Rainy Season

The trekking area of ​​Komodo National Park passes through dense forest with red soil and mud of course during the rainy season. Therefore, avoid visiting during the rainy season. Because the climbing route will be very muddy and slippery. Usually from November to February, on the other hand, February is also the month when the west wind is not good for sailing.