Destinations: Kalong Island

The Beauty of Kalong Island

Location

Where is Kalong Island located?

If you are looking for “Kalong Island” on Google Maps, you will not find it. “Kalong” in the local language means “Flying Fox”. The actual name of the Island is Pulau Koabe. It is located nearby the northeast coast of Rinca Island.

How to get there?

Even if Kalong Island can only be reached by boat, it is fairly easy to visit this sunset if you go on one of the many different boat trips. Almost every multi-day boat trip will stop at this location to end the day with a unforgettable sunset. There are also some Half-Day trips that offer the experience.

The sunset of Kalong Island

The sunset on Kalong Island can be best experienced by watching it from a boat, where you can see the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding waters.

The Flying Foxes

The nocturnal flying foxes living in the mangroves of Pulau Koabe are known as the Sunda Flying Fox. This species is one of the least threatened of the Acerodon (meaning: Sharp-tooth) genus, which consists of five species. However, even they are the least threatened species, their conservation status is vulnerable due to deforestation of mangrove trees.

The diet of this flying fox consist of fruits, and in search for food, after sunset, they all emerge from the mangroves into the sunset-coloured sky to fly towards the surrounding main islands (Flores and Rinca).

Best Time to Visit

The sunset is best during dry season, but can be experience all year during sunset. The sun in this area normally set around 17:30pm – 18:30pm.

Conclusion

Kalong Island, also known as Pulau Koabe, located within the Komodo National Park, offers a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking a mesmerizing sunset. The island’s mangrove forest provides a stunning backdrop as thousands of Sunda Flying Foxes take flight in the enchanting “bat exodus.” Watching the sunset from a boat allows for a unique perspective, immersing visitors in the tranquility of the surrounding waters and showcasing the island’s natural beauty in a magical light. The sight of the flying foxes against the vibrant colors of the setting sun creates an ethereal ambiance that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you visit during the dry season or any time of the year, Kalong Island promises a captivating adventure that showcases the awe-inspiring wonders of nature.