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KOMODO
The very word conjures up thoughts of mystery and myth. A Jurassic
world where rolling hillsides of savanna grassland meet long
stretches of palm fringed beaches. A place where massive tectonic
plateaus collide beneath the turquoise waters of the Flores
Sea driving rugged mountains skyward. Active volcanoes and the
strong currents of the Lint Straits create giant whirlpools,
guarding the island from the outside world. Great reptiles bathe
in the sun as
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the
sounds of exotic birds bring the dense forest to life. This island
supports a limited number of plant and animal species, only those
who have been able to adapt to this harsh environment survived. This
is the world of the Komodo Dragon, the island of Komodo, Indonesia.
Called "Ora" by the local people, the Dragon is the world's largest
land reptile. Superbly adapted, they reign supreme as the island's
top predator. The only place on earth you can see these magnificent
creatures is Western Flores. They are a vital part of Indonesia's
past and future, and a precious part of the world's heritage. The
2000 giant reptiles make up the total world population and have the
most restricted range of any predator on earth. Reaching 3 meters
in length and weighing around 90 kg, an adult will attack and kill
water buffalo, deer or wild pigs.
Travelers are welcome to enter this sensitive environment to experience
seeing one of the world's endangered species. For your safety, no
individual is allowed to enter this region without the accompaniment
of a Ranger. Escorting you along a 2.5-km trail, your guide carries
his wooden stick to poke an aggressive dragon into retreat. For your
protection, red clothing is forbidden to be worn on the island, as
the dragon has been known to mistake it for blood. Hiking boots are
suggested for this comfortable trek, suitable for all ages.
On the northwest tip of Flores, is a location referred to as Batu
Gosok. This isolated peninsula is home to Puri Bagus Komodo, a hideaway
guaranteed to thrill snorkelers, divers and adventurers. As your flight
approaches Batu Gosok, you will notice a magnificent cove with over
1000 meters of white sand and a wooden jetty protruding 400 meters
into the coral rich turquoise waters. This is the 20 hectors of peace
and quiet we all dream of. Your flight lands at the village of Labuhan
Bajo, where our vehicle will transport you to the harbor. Climb aboard
one of our boats for a 15 to 20 minutes cruise to the resort. |
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