VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

East Nusa Tenggara –NTT is a paradise for nature lovers. Biodiversity, peace and beauty of NTT’s land that stretches from the air, land to the seabed seem to become everyone's dream. This natural charm is able to attract the attention of both domestic and foreign tourists. NTT as the most exotic province in Eastern Indonesia offers millions of biodiversity that is worth being explored. West Manggarai is also an area that offers a row of exotic tours. One of them is Koaba Island or also known as Kalong Island which is located not far from Komodo National Park. This island is included in the 7 wonders of the world and is a large habitat for giant bats or also called Kalong that inhabit a row of exotic trees on the island.

The detailed location of Koaba Island is located in Manggarai Regency, precisely in the Mbeliling protected forest area in Labuan Bajo. To get to the island, if you depart by plane, you can get off at the nearest airport or it is recommended to get off in Denpasar, Bali. From Bali, you can continue your trip by taking a long-distance ferry for approximately 4 to 5 hours to East Nusa Tenggara. Arriving there, take a public bus to the port of Labuan Bajo, then continue by speedboat or canoe to Koaba Island for about 8 km or it takes about 1 hour by sea transportation. Although it is a bit tiring on the way, when you get there, you will be presented with a very beautiful view. All your tiredness will be paid off with this beautiful view.

This small island with dense forest and surrounded by blue sea water containing millions of marine animals and plants is the home of thousands of large bats or Kalong that perch in the trees during the day and roam from evening to night to hunt. Even though it is inhabited by thousands of bats, many visitors say that it is a little difficult to find bats because the nocturnal nightlife is difficult to navigate. However, you can try to see them around 6 PM. There are no lodging facilities on this island. So, it is highly recommended that you enjoy some diving spots in the island area while waiting for the night creature to appear. Tour managers near the port have provided rental masks, fins, buoys, gas cylinders to diving and swimming suits. Spending time in natural tourism areas such as Koaba Island is the most appropriate choice to be able to see directly the greatness of God who has given privileges to Indonesia with its diverse culture, natural charm and biodiversity.