The gateway to Komodo National Park is Labuan Bajo, a small port town on the western tip of Flores. Labuan Bajo has an airport (LBJ) with direct flights from Bali (Ngurah Rai, about 55 minutes) and Jakarta, plus connections via Bali from international destinations. The number of flights has increased significantly in recent years as the government has promoted Komodo as a priority tourism destination.
From Labuan Bajo, boats to the park are available from the harbour. Day trips typically run to one or two sites; a two- to four-night liveaboard is the best way to visit the full park. Rinca Island is about 45 minutes by speedboat; Komodo Island is 1.5–2 hours. Budget-friendly shared day trips are available, as are private charters at higher cost.
Entry to the national park requires a permit, which is included in the price of most organised tours. The park fee for foreign visitors is set by the government and has changed several times in recent years — check the current price before visiting as it may have increased.