Komodo Island is one of the thousands of islands that form the vast archipelago of Indonesia. It lies within the Lesser Sunda Islands and is globally recognized for being the natural habitat of the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard species on Earth. Covering approximately 390 square kilometers, the island features rugged hills, savannah landscapes, and coastal ecosystems that support diverse wildlife.
Komodo Island is part of the protected Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established to conserve the Komodo dragon and its environment. The island has a relatively small human population of just over two thousand residents. These communities have a unique cultural background, believed to be descendants of exiled individuals who later mixed with migrants, particularly from Sulawesi.
Most inhabitants practice Islam, though small groups follow Christianity and Hinduism, reflecting Indonesia’s cultural diversity. Administratively, Komodo belongs to the East Nusa Tenggara province. Beyond its ecological importance, the island is also a popular destination for tourists, especially for diving and snorkeling, thanks to its rich marine biodiversity, coral reefs, and clear blue waters.