Before booking your Labuan Bajo tour or Komodo sailing trip, many travelers ask:
“When is the best time to visit Labuan Bajo?”
The answer depends on your priorities:
• Do you want the sunniest weather?
• The clearest water for snorkeling?
• The best chance to see manta rays?
• Or fewer crowds and better prices?
Here is a complete seasonal guide to help you plan.
Contents
🌤 Seasons in Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo generally has two main seasons:
1. Dry Season (April – October)
This is widely considered the best time to visit.
Advantages:
• Sunny weather
• Clear blue skies
• Calmer sea conditions
• Dramatic sunrise and sunset views
• More comfortable trekking conditions
Most popular months:
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
However, July and August are peak season, meaning higher prices and more visitors.
🌊 When is the Water Clearest?
Water visibility is usually at its best during:
👉 May – September
Snorkeling and diving conditions are generally excellent during this period, especially when currents are moderate.
If underwater photography and clear visibility are your priority, these months are ideal.
🐋 When is Manta Ray Season?
Manta Point is one of the highlights of Komodo National Park.
The best months to see manta rays:
👉 June – October
During this period, manta sightings are more frequent due to migration patterns and favorable sea currents.
However, manta rays are wild animals, so sightings are never 100% guaranteed.
2. Rainy Season (November – March)
Many travelers assume that sailing is not possible during rainy season. That is not entirely true.
Trips still operate, but:
• Winds can be stronger
• Routes may be adjusted
• Certain spots may be skipped for safety
Advantages of Rainy Season:
• Lush green landscapes
• Fewer tourists
• More flexible pricing
• Still beautiful sunsets
December and January can still be busy due to holiday season.
High Season vs Low Season
High Season
• June – August
• Christmas & New Year period
Characteristics:
• Boats sell out quickly
• Higher prices
• Popular spots are more crowded
It is recommended to book 1–2 months in advance.
Low Season
• February – April
• October – November (except long weekends)
Characteristics:
• More flexible prices
• Fewer crowds
• Ideal for relaxed private trips
🏝 So, When is the Absolute Best Time?
If you want the best overall combination:
✔ Sunny weather
✔ Clear water
✔ High chance of manta sightings
✔ Not overly crowded
👉 Choose May, early June, or September.
These months are often considered the “sweet spot” of the year.
Travel Planning Tips
• Avoid peak long weekends if you prefer quieter spots
• Arrive one day before your sailing trip
• Book your return flight after 13:00 on the last day
• Always check national holiday calendars before booking
Conclusion
There is no single “perfect” month — it depends on what you prioritize.
Want the sunniest weather? → May–September
Want manta rays? → June–October
Want fewer crowds? → Low season
Want greener landscapes? → Early rainy season
With proper planning, Labuan Bajo is beautiful almost all year round.
