Kalong Island Labuan Bajo: The Magical Sunset of Flying Foxes
Just before the sun sets over Komodo National Park there’s a place where nature performs one of its most magical shows — Kalong Island. Also known as “Bat Island,” this small mangrove-covered isle near Labuan Bajo is home to thousands of giant fruit bats that take flight every evening at sunset. Watching them fill the sky in swarming patterns is an unforgettable experience, and a must-see highlight on any Komodo tour. Join our most wanted Komodo island tour packages, open trip komodo 3d2n with Phinisi boat start from Labuan Bajo.
The Flying Fox Phenomenon
Every evening around 6 PM, as the sky turns golden, the mangrove forest of Kalong Island comes alive. Thousands of flying foxes (megabats) rise from the trees, their silhouettes crossing the orange horizon as they head toward Flores Island to feed on fruits.
The spectacle usually lasts about 30–40 minutes — long enough to enjoy the colors of the sunset and take amazing photos or videos from your boat’s deck. It’s peaceful, surreal, and one of the most unique experiences in the Komodo archipelago.
How to Visit Kalong Island
Kalong Island lies about 8 km from Labuan Bajo, roughly 30–40 minutes by boat. It’s often included as the final stop in most day or liveaboard tours — the perfect way to end a day of snorkeling, hiking, and exploring.
- Padar – Komodo – Pink Beach – Kalong Island (Full Day Tour)
- 2D1N or 3D2N Phinisi Cruise, where Kalong serves as the sunset anchor point.
If you book a phinisi charter, your crew will usually anchor near the mangroves before sunset, allowing you to relax with snacks or dinner while waiting for the flying foxes to appear.
Best Time to Visit
- Sunset (5:30 – 6:30 PM): The bats begin to fly as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Dry Season (April–November): Clear skies for golden sunsets and calmer seas.
- Rainy Season (December–March): Lush mangroves, but occasional clouds.
Why Kalong Island Is Special
Kalong Island is more than just a stop for sightseeing — it’s a rare glimpse into the harmony between wildlife and the natural environment of Komodo National Park. The island itself is uninhabited and covered entirely by mangroves, which provide perfect roosting grounds for the bats.
Unlike the dragon encounters or coral snorkeling elsewhere, the Kalong experience connects visitors with the peaceful rhythm of nature — no hiking, no crowds, just the sound of wings against a glowing sky.
Combine Kalong Island with Other Destinations
Kalong is best experienced as part of a Komodo sailing trip or sunset cruise. You can combine it with:
- Padar Island (sunrise hike)
- Komodo Island (dragon trekking)
- Pink Beach (snorkeling)
- Manta Point (swim with manta rays)