Guide to Hiking the Padar Island Viewpoint, Komodo, Indonesia
Hiking to the Padar Island Viewpoint is an exhilarating adventure that showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Komodo archipelago. The trek begins at a well-marked trailhead and takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the summit, where you’re rewarded with panoramic views of three distinctive beaches—white, black, and pink—framing the coastline. As you ascend, the lush greenery and rugged hills create a striking contrast against the vibrant turquoise waters, culminating in a breathtaking vista that captures the essence of this paradise. The hike is usually a highlight as a part of a longer 3 Day 2 Night Komodo Island Tour within Komodo National Park.
Padar Island Viewpoint
Hike Overview and Map
Trailhead: The hike begins at the designated trailhead opposite the main jetty | Google Maps
Trail Turn Point: Top viewpoint turn | Google Maps
Total Hiking Distance: 1.5 km round trip
Total Hiking Duration: 45 minute hike | one way
Difficulty: Moderate, with a steep ascent involving steps and dirt paths
Altitude: 180 meters above sea level
Price: Included in the Komodo National Park entry fee, typically paid during a Komodo Island tour. A paid tour is the only way to access the island.
Highlights: Panoramic views of Padar Island's three coloured beaches white, black, and pink, surrounding islands, and the Flores Sea. Best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset..
Getting There
Note that access to Padar Island within Komodo National Park is only possible via an organised tour. For all options there is a requirement to pay the Komodo National Park Entry Fee off around 500,000 Rupiah or $50 AUD in cash on arrival.
From Labuan Bajo:
3 Day 2 Night Tour Komodo Islands Sail
The hike on the 3 Day 2 Night Komodo Island Tour is typically completed at sunrise on the second day of the sail.
The tour also includes additional areas such as Kalong Island, Komodo Island and Manta Point at a relaxed pace.
These tours cost around 10,000,000 Rupiah or $950 AUD per person for the two night trip
The tours typically depart twice a week.
There are a variety of tour operators available depending on how much you are willing to spend these can be booked directly on arrival in Labuan Bajo or ahead of time on Get Your Guide
1 Day Trip Komodo Islands
The hike on the single day trip tours is typically completed in the morning after the journey over from Labuan Bajo.
The day trips typically include a visit to Komodo Island, Pink Beach and Manta Point at a fast pace, with a total duration of around 10 hours.
Run every day of the week with the departure time around 6:30AM.
These tours cost around 1,500,000 Rupiah or $150 AUD offering a cheaper alternative for those with minimal time.
There are a variety of tour operators available depending on how much you are willing to spend these can be booked directly on arrival in Labuan Bajo or ahead of time on Get Your Guide
Padar Island Top Viewpoint
General Tips
The hike is short but very steep in sections, with the trail consisting of a mix of dirt paths and stone steps. As such be sure to wear sturdy enclosed shoes.
The main challenge is navigating the trail amongst a huge number of people. The trail gets extremely busy especially at dawn just prior to the sunrise.
A close second to the crowds is the intense humidity which makes the hike a solid effort even before the sun comes up. There are no facilities on the island so ensure that you bring ample water with you.
Once you reach the summit you are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Padar Island’s rugged hills, curved bays, and three distinct beaches—pink, black, and white sand beaches. This makes the island a hotspot for viewing either the sunrise or sunset.
Take some time at the top get your breathe back and truly take it all in the view away from the hustle and bustle.
Padar Island Bay Sunrise
Padar Island Bottom Viewpoint
View of the sunrise looking out over Padar Bay
Padar Island Sunrise Viewpoint
Where to Next
Day Trip Cunca Wulang Waterfall: from Labuan Bajo Cunca Wulang waterfall is around a 45 minute scooter ride away. Its a great place to either relax or opt for some cliff jumping on the island of Flores.
Rangko Cave: A visit to Rangko Cave near Labuan Bajo involves a scenic boat ride to a stunning cave with turquoise waters perfect for swimming, best experienced in the early afternoon when sunlight illuminates the cave.
Wae Rebo Village, a remote Manggarai village in the mountains of Flores, offers a unique cultural experience with an overnight stay in traditional mbaru niang (conical houses). The 3-4 hour trek to reach the village is rewarded with insight into the local lifestyle, customs, and traditional weaving practices, requiring 2 days for travel and a stay.
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Pink Beach on Padar Island in Komodo National Park is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. The unique pink-hued sand, created by a blend of white sand and crushed red coral, offers a striking contrast to the turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply relaxing on the shore.