Komodo
Mantas and fast drifts over busy reefs.
- Overall rank
- #9 of 20
- Editor’s score
- 8.9 / 10
- Best months
- July — August
- Go for
- Reef mantas · Drift dives
Why dive here?
Komodo offers manta dives, coral gardens and fast drifts past reef sharks and tuna. The northern pinnacles can be packed with fish. Reef condition varies by site, but the best dives combine healthy coral with plenty of big-animal activity.
When to go
The best time to dive here is July — August. Check the linked season guide and ask your operator about conditions for your dates.
What to look for
These are the main draws. Sightings vary by site, season and luck.
- Reef mantas
- Drift dives
- Sharks and tuna
- Coral variety
Conditions and trip planning
Confident intermediate to advanced. Strong currents, with much colder water in the south than in the north.
Trip format: Liveaboard for the full north-to-south range; day boats cover less ground.
About the score
Komodo scores 8.9/10 for diving at its best. The ranking favours sharks and other large animals, followed by reef health and variety across the trip. Price and travel time do not affect the score.
Underwater photos
Open a photo for its source and credits.
Dives on video
Watch for the conditions, marine life and pace of the dives. Each video shows one trip.