Established in 1980 to protect the prehistoric-looking Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), the park was later expanded to safeguard its rich marine ecosystems and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
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Situated in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores, Komodo National Park encompasses three main islands – Rinca, Komodo and Padar – along with numerous smaller volcanic islands.
How big is Komodo National Park?
Today, the protected area covers between 1,733 and 2,321 sq km of land and sea, encompassing rugged islands, coral reefs and some of the most biodiverse waters in Southeast Asia. Its most famous residents are the Komodo dragons – around 5,700 of the giant reptiles roam the park's islands and live amongst the human population.
How dangerous are Komodo dragons?
Komodo dragons are the largest living lizards on Earth, reaching lengths of up to 3m (10ft) and weighing more than 100kg. As ambush predators, they rely on powerful jaws lined with serrated, iron-tipped teeth and venom that helps incapacitate prey by preventing blood clotting.
Although encounters with humans are uncommon, Komodo dragons are potentially dangerous animals. Park records show that over a 38-year period there were around 24 reported attacks on people, five of which proved fatal.
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- It has iron-coated razor-sharp teeth, weighs the same as a beer keg and delivers its deadly venom by raking its teeth through its prey’s flesh
Komodo dragons can move surprisingly quickly over short distances and possess a highly developed sense of smell, allowing them to detect food from several kilometres away.
Other wildlife to spot
While best known as the stronghold of the Komodo dragon, the park also supports a variety of other remarkable wildlife, including the orange-footed scrubfowl, an endemic rat species and the Timor deer. Beneath the waves, Komodo’s coral reefs teem with marine life, while nutrient-rich currents draw an array of ocean giants, including sea turtles, whales, dolphins and dugongs.
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