What You'll See When You Dive in Komodo

If you're thinking of diving in Komodo, here are some of the amazing marine life you'll see!

Last updated: 22 Jan 2026 - 2 min read

Komodo is located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, which is known as the most biodiverse marine region on Earth! It's an exceptional dive site and many divers consider it to be one of the best places to dive in the world (we think so too!).

There are lots of dive sites here from beginner-friendly (you don't even need a licence!), to advanced.

Whether you're a beginner or advanced diver, here are the highlights of what you'll get to see:

💙 Manta Rays: One of the highlights is definitely being able to see the majestic manta rays in their natural habitat. Manta Point, Batu Bolong, and Makassar Reef are a few of the famous dive sites where manta sightings are almost guaranteed! Peak manta sightings are during wet season because mantas love the colder waters!

💙 Turtles: Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles are commonly found in Komodo and they love to hang out in Siaba Besar (Turtle City). But they're also found everywhere else in Komodo! We saw 5 turtles in another dive spot just in one dive.

💙 Sharks: You can find various shark species here - whitetip and blacktip reef sharks, grey reef sharks and bamboo sharks that are quite rare!

💙 Beautiful Corals: Komodo's reefs have more than 260 species of coral, including hard corals and soft corals. They create a kaleidoscope of colours, from vibrant pinks, oranges, and purples to soothing blues and greens - and are breathtakingly beautiful.

💙 Macro Life: Besides the big game, Komodo is a fantastic dive site for abundant macro life as well like: nudibranch, blue ringed octopus, clownfish, frogfish, sea horse, and so much more.

So if you're thinking of booking your Komodo dive trip, check out all our one day or multi-day Komodo Dive Trips! Psst, you can also do a 1 Day Discovery Dive if you've never dived before!

About the author

Jia Lin

I love being out in nature - hiking, observing wildlife, and petting alllll the street dogs and cats ❤️

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Diving in Labuan Bajo (Komodo) FAQs

What are the best diving spots in Labuan Bajo for exploring the less-known underwater ecosystems?

Some of the most secluded and vibrant diving sites around Labuan Bajo include Batu Bolong and Tatawa Islands, which offer pristine coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life. For off-the-beaten-path adventures, consider diving at Manta Point during manta migration seasons or exploring the lesser-visited islands like Kanawa for colourful macro photography opportunities. Remember to go with local, eco-conscious operators who prioritise reef conservation and provide customised dives tailored for keen photographers looking to capture unique underwater moments.

What should I pack for diving trips around Labuan Bajo, especially if I want to capture authentic local underwater scenes?

Pack a high-quality underwater camera or housing with wide-angle and macro lenses to document colourful marine life and intricate coral formations. Bring reef-safe sunscreen for surface prepping, lightweight dry clothing for post-dive comfort, and a snorkel and fins as backup options. Don't forget small power banks and extra batteries, as well as a waterproof bag for your electronics. Respect local marine environments by avoiding touching or collecting souvenirs from the reef, ensuring your photographs do not disturb the delicate ecosystems.

Are there specific times of year that are ideal for diving in Labuan Bajo to enjoy unspoiled marine life and better photography conditions?

The dry season from May to September generally offers calmer seas, better visibility (up to 20 meters or more), and abundant marine life, making it ideal for diving and underwater photography. During this period, chances to encounter manta rays, large pelagics, and colourful macro species increase. For a more intimate experience with lesser crowds, consider diving during the shoulder months of April or October. Always check recent weather patterns and marine activity, and consider local guides' advice to optimise your dive trips for authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters.

How can I engage with local communities or indigenous cultures during my diving trips around Labuan Bajo?

Participate in community-led fishing or conservation initiatives, which often include underwater clean-up diving events organised by local groups. Visiting nearby villages such as Wae Rebo or Batu Cermin Cave offers opportunities to learn about traditional customs and stories, enriching your photographic narrative and cultural understanding. Always approach local communities with respect, use guides who are familiar with cultural sensitivities, and support locally owned businesses and eco-tourism efforts to ensure your trip benefits the community and promotes sustainable tourism.

What are some tips for ensuring sustainable and responsible diving in the fragile ecosystems surrounding Labuan Bajo?

Choose operators certified by recognised eco-labels who follow strict environmental guidelines, including avoiding coral contact and responsible waste disposal. Practice buoyancy control to prevent damaging delicate corals when taking photographs. Avoid collecting shells, corals, or marine creatures as souvenirs. Educate yourself on local marine species and conservation issues to appreciate their importance. Supporting marine protected areas and participating in reef-preservation programmes helps maintain the beauty and biodiversity of Labuan Bajo’s underwater environment for future explorers and photographers.