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| Foto:Komodo National Park |
VISTORBELITUNG.COM,KOMODO NATIONAL PARK, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia – Deep within the rugged islands of the West Manggarai Regency lies an extraordinary sanctuary where prehistory seems to cling to the present day: Komodo National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site, encompassing the islands of Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, is the only place on Earth where the magnificent Komodo Dragon (Varanus komodoensis) survives in the wild.
Often dubbed the world's "living dinosaur," this giant monitor lizard the largest extant species of lizard is a captivating relic that draws comparisons to the fearsome predators of the Mesozoic Era.
With adults growing up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length and weighing around 70-90 kilograms, the Komodo Dragon possesses a formidable physique and an intimidating presence that certainly warrants the dinosaur analogy. While scientists confirm that Komodo Dragons are not direct descendants of dinosaurs instead belonging to the lizard family (Squamata) that evolved much later their impressive size, predatory nature, and prehistoric appearance are a vivid reminder of the age of reptiles.
"To witness a Komodo Dragon in its natural habitat is like taking a step back in time," says a local ranger at the park. "Their hunting methods, their sheer size it evokes the power of the ancient world. They are the apex predator here, dominating their ecosystem just like the great carnivores of the past."
The dragons are unique for their complex venom system, sharp, serrated teeth, and an exceptional sense of smell, which they use to track prey including deer, water buffalo, and wild boar from kilometres away using their forked tongues.
Established in 1980 primarily to protect the Komodo Dragon, the National Park is a critical conservation area. Its successful protection efforts have helped stabilize the population of these vulnerable creatures.
However, the park's status as an unparalleled natural wonder has led to a significant surge in tourism, posing new challenges to its delicate ecosystem. In a proactive measure to safeguard the habitat and the dragons themselves, the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry recently announced a strict cap on visitors.
Starting in early 2026, the park will limit daily entry to just 1,000 visitors. This quota, divided into three sessions per day, is a direct result of comprehensive studies on the park's environmental "carrying capacity."
"The increase in visitors has raised concerns about the potential degradation of both our terrestrial and marine ecosystems," explained a spokesperson from the Ministry. "This new limit ensures that our tourism remains focused on conservation and sustainability a true ecotourism experience that does not compromise the health and well-being of the Komodo Dragons."
The phased implementation of the quota system is set to begin in early 2026, aiming to manage the flow of tourists and secure the future for these magnificent creatures.
For travellers seeking adventure and a connection to nature's most extraordinary survivors, Komodo National Park remains an essential, bucket-list destination. It is a place where one can truly appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of Indonesia and stand in awe before the very last of the giants the legendary Komodo Dragon.