Labuan Bajo, one of Indonesia’s super-priority destinations, is set to become even more accessible to international travelers. In a significant boost to the region’s tourism industry, direct flights from three major countries—Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore—are set to begin soon.
This exciting development was announced by the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, during the opening of the Golo Koe Festival in Labuan Bajo on Thursday, August 15, 2024.
“Labuan Bajo’s development as a super-priority destination is progressing rapidly. In a short time, we will see direct flights from Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore to Labuan Bajo,” Sandiaga revealed. His announcement is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to bolstering the region’s connectivity and appeal to international tourists.
In addition to these three countries, efforts are underway to establish direct flights from South Korea and Thailand (Bangkok) to Labuan Bajo, further expanding the destination’s reach. This move aims to cater to the specific interests of international tourists who are increasingly drawn to the area’s natural attractions, particularly its marine offerings.
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Unlike other popular tourist destinations like Bali, Labuan Bajo attracts visitors who are primarily interested in nature-based experiences, especially those centered around the sea, such as diving and snorkeling. Understanding this unique demand, the necessary infrastructure and services are being developed to enhance the visitor experience.
Nature tourism has become a cornerstone of Labuan Bajo’s appeal, with visitors flocking to its scenic spots throughout the day and night. The allure of Labuan Bajo’s natural beauty ensures a steady stream of international tourists, with many arriving early in the morning and staying late into the night.
During the day, tourists can be found exploring the beaches, the ocean, and various cultural villages. As evening approaches, the focus shifts to enjoying breathtaking sunsets and leisurely conversations in the cafes that line the waterfront and Labuan Bajo Port.
The vibrant nightlife in Labuan Bajo is marked by lively discussions and the sight of numerous pedestrians strolling along the clean, wide sidewalks. Sandiaga also highlighted the Golo Koe Festival as an additional draw for tourists, enhancing the overall appeal of the destination.
The peak of the Golo Koe Festival took place between Saturday, August 10, and Thursday, August 15, 2024, in Labuan Bajo. However, the festival’s religious processions had begun earlier, on Thursday, August 1, at the Old Rekas Church complex.
Meanwhile, data from the Department of Tourism, Creative Economy, and Culture (Disparekrafbud) of West Manggarai Regency shows a significant increase in tourist visits to Labuan Bajo. From January to June 2024, the destination welcomed 35,936 visitors. Of this total, 12,312 were foreign tourists, 23,221 were domestic tourists, and 403 were local visitors.
“These figures were recorded at seven government-operated tourist sites,” said Stefanus Jemsifori, Head of Disparekrafbud, during an interview with RRI in Labuan Bajo on Friday, July 5, 2024, as reported by RRI on Saturday.
The most popular tourist destinations during this period included Batu Cermin Cave, Rangko Cave, Cunca Wulang Waterfall, Puncak Waringin, Ngalor Kalo, and the diving and snorkeling spots in Labuan Bajo.
“In the last six months, these tourist visits have generated Rp1,266,740,000 in Regional Original Revenue (PAD),” Stefanus added.
He further mentioned that the local government is prioritizing the development of tourist villages, such as Rangko Cave, mangrove kayaking in Rangko, Ngalor Kalo Tourist Village in Siru Lembor Village, the Waterfall Tourist Village in Cunca Wulang, and Wae Lolos Sano Nggoang Village.
With these new developments, Labuan Bajo is poised to attract even more visitors from around the world, solidifying its status as one of Indonesia’s top tourism destinations. The introduction of direct flights and ongoing efforts to enhance the visitor experience will undoubtedly contribute to the region’s growing popularity.
