Explore Gili Lawa Darat – Komodo National Park’s Hidden Trekking

Nestled in the northern part of Komodo National Park, Gili Lawa Darat is one of the most breathtaking yet often overlooked island destinations in eastern Indonesia. Its name means “the island close to the land” in Bahasa Indonesia, and this beautiful, uninhabited island offers travelers stunning panoramic views, outdoor adventure opportunities, and a peaceful escape amidst one of the region’s most iconic marine environments.

A Unique Island with Stunning Views

Gili Lawa Darat sits facing the deep bay of Komodo Island, protected from strong winds and rough seas — a shape that sailors sometimes call “Komodo’s fjord.” While the island doesn’t have resorts or facilities, it’s a favorite stop for boats cruising through Parc national de Komodo and a perfect place for photography, nature walks, and quiet reflection.

The island is characterized by rolling savannah hills that transform beautifully with the seasons — lush green during the wet season and golden brown in the dry months. From the top of the island’s hills, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and neighboring islands.

Trekking for Epic Views

One of the most popular reasons to visit Gili Lawa Darat is the hiking experience. Simple paths lead up the gently sloping hills to viewpoints where you can watch the sunrise or sunset over the sea. The climb isn’t too strenuous but requires good footwear and sun protection, and once you reach the summit, the 360° views of the bay and islands below are nothing short of spectacular.

Water Adventures & Marine Life

Though the island itself is dry and grassy, the waters around Gili Lawa Darat are rich with marine life. Protected from rough seas, the bay is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. Beneath the surface, vibrant coral gardens, colorful fish, and other sea creatures reward explorers who bring masks and fins.

Occasionally, lucky visitors might even spot large marine animals such as dolphins or whales passing offshore, especially because the island lies close to deep water channels.

Getting There: Island Hopping from Labuan Bajo

Gili Lawa Darat is typically visited as part of a boat tour from Labuan Bajo, the main gateway town on Île de Flores. Travelers often include it on longer island-hopping itineraries that explore several parts of Parc national de Komodo, including snorkeling spots, beaches, and other scenic islands.

Because the island has no infrastructure — no shops, toilets, or food outlets — visitors should bring everything they need for a comfortable stay, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and trash bags to carry out any waste.