Labuan Bajo has exploded in popularity over the last decade. Once a quiet fishing town, it is now a gateway to Komodo National Park, luxury yachts, and international tourism.
But behind the beautiful photos, there are serious conversations happening about illegal activities, environmental protection, and tourist safety.
​
This page is a simple, honest update from the ground in Labuan Bajo—sharing recent news and explaining how responsible tourism can help protect this incredible region.

Recent News Around Labuan Bajo and Komodo

Illegal Gold Mining Near Komodo National Park

In late 2025, Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) reported the discovery of an illegal gold mine on Pulau Sebayur Besar, close to the Komodo National Park buffer zone. The activity is believed to have been operating for many years, with tunnels, equipment, and ore allegedly moved quietly out of the region.

​Illegal mining near a protected marine area can threaten:
  • Water quality and sedimentation
  • Coral reefs and marine life
  • Long-term sustainability of tourism and local fisheries
This case has raised big questions about how well protected the wider Komodo ecosystem really is, beyond the main islands visited by tourists.

Luxury Resort Under Scrutiny for Environmental & Tax Issues

At almost the same time, KPK and local authorities also inspected 69 Resort & Beach Club on Pulau Kelapa, near Labuan Bajo. Investigations found that the property was operating without a valid AMDAL (environmental impact assessment) and had reportedly not reported or paid local taxes.
​
Parts of the resort are built directly over the sea, with high-end overwater villas. The case has become a symbol of how fast development has come to Labuan Bajo—and how important it is that investment follows environmental and legal standards, not just aesthetics.

Warnings About Illegal Tour Operators and Travel Scams

With the boom in tourism, not everyone entering the market is operating legally. In mid-2025, the East Nusa Tenggara chapter of ASITA (Association of Indonesian Travel Companies) issued a warning to tourists about illegal tour operators in Labuan Bajo, especially during peak travel months.

Reports have included:
  • Fake or unlicensed agents selling “cheap” Komodo tours
  • Last-minute scams when visitors cannot find available boats
  • Poor safety standards and sub-standard service
  • Even high-profile cases of tourists losing millions of rupiah on undelivered trips.
These incidents not only hurt visitors, but also damage the reputation of Labuan Bajo and the many professional, legal operators who try to do things the right way.

    Contact us

Contact us for any questions:  
WhatsApp: 
​+62 812-3855-3678      
Email: [email protected]

Overtourism and New Limits Inside Komodo National Park

Conservation bodies and the Indonesian government have been increasingly vocal about overtourism in Komodo National Park.
Recent reports highlight:
  • Pressure on coral reefs and marine biodiversity
  • Crowding at popular viewpoints such as Padar Island
  • Safety concerns when too many visitors gather on steep tracks and cliffs
  • Plans to limit daily visitor numbers to protect the park’s rare wildlife and fragile ecosystems starting from 2026
Scientific studies and conservation assessments point to the need for better waste management, stronger regulations, and a long-term plan that keeps Komodo wild and healthy for future generations.

What This Means for Tourists Visiting Labuan Bajo

For most visitors, none of this is meant to be scary. Labuan Bajo is still a very special, welcoming destination. But being informed helps you:
  • Choose legal, responsible operators
  • Avoid scams and unsafe boats
  • Support businesses that care about conservation
  • Travel in a way that protects Komodo for the future

How to Choose a Safe and Responsible Tour Operator

Check Legality and Reputation

  • Look for a registered company with a physical office in Labuan Bajo.
  • Check Google Maps reviews and see how the company responds.
  • Ask if the operator follows park rules, safety standards, and insurance requirements.
  • Be cautious of prices that are far below the normal market rate—especially offered through private WhatsApp, Facebook groups, or unverified agents.

Ask About Safety and Environmental Practices

  • How many guests per guide on the boat or dive trip?
  • Do they brief guests about reef protection and wildlife rules?
  • Do they limit plastic use and handle waste properly?
  • Are life jackets, first-aid kits, and emergency procedures clearly available on board?

Our Commitment as a Local Operator in Labuan Bajo

At Maika Komodo Tour & Diving, we live and work in Labuan Bajo. This is our home, not just a business destination.
Our commitments include:
  • Operating legally under Indonesian regulations
  • Following Komodo National Park rules and conservation guidelines
  • Using experienced, certified dive guides and boat crews
  • Prioritizing safety briefings, proper equipment, and small group sizes
  • Supporting local communities through employment and partnerships
  • Educating our guests about how to enjoy Komodo without harming it

You can explore our trips here:

Sources

For all our services, you can visit our individual pages here;
​Daily Diving Trip in Komodo
Komodo Open Water Course
Komodo Advanced open water course
3 day 2 night komodo tour
one day komodo tour

    Contact us with any questions.
You can also book from our choice of Luxury Liveaboards.
Celestia Phinisi  -  
Maika Komodo Tour & Diving offer Komodo tours and scuba diving in Komodo National Park.  Our office is located on the main tourist street in Labuan Bajo.  The address is; 

Maika Komodo Tour & Diving
 Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Labuan Bajo, Kec. Komodo, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim. 86763, Indonesia

Our Google maps can be found here at Komodo Tour & Diving
For those looking, you can also visit our Phinisi for sale page.
Contact Maika Komodo Tours for any questions you may have. 
Proudly powered by Weebly