Komodo trip is no longer hidden gems amongst the most adventurous earth explorer. As this UNESCO’s protected site is enlisted on the New 7 Wonders of the World, Komodo National Park soon become Indonesia’s next Bali and now it attracts tourists of all ages. Today, lots of families are excited to take their children to see the raw and enchanting land of Komodo. With so much things to explore, Komodo will never be a bore in the eyes of young kids!
As much interesting as it seems, however, Komodo has never enlisted as true child-friendly destination, if not at all. Accommodation might have evolved, but the prehistoric Komodo dragons don’t. The rough terrains at surrounding islands stay the same (a relieve!) and that means a challenging adventure for both you and your kids.
So before you go, here are few preparation to ensure a safe and equally exciting Komodo trip with your kiddos.
Sounding First
Do try sounding to your kids days or even weeks before departing. They might get overtly excited to finally be able to see the real, living “dragons” with their own eyes, but they need to exhibit certain behaviours while exploring the dragon’s lair. Do talk to them what they can and cannot do during a dragon hunting (e.g; touching the dragons, getting way too close, wandering off from parents’ watch, standing on the tip of the boat, etc). Let them know how fascinating the dragons are and how dangerous they are in the same time.
Most Komodo trip will likely involve multiple day sailing with liveaboard boats. If you are travelling with liveaboard, give your kids a picture of how living in liveaboard looks like and what they should not do in the boat.
Encourage Curiosity, Discourage Lone Exploration
Lone exploration might make kids feel like embarking on their little Indiana Jones expedition, especially in places as raw as Komodo. Jagged island with stone mountain, high rising palm lontar trees, and thick bushes, Komodo’s landscape is giving off thick Jurassic-like vibes that will make any kids lost in adventure. While it’s good to stimulate children’s curiosity, creativity, and overall mental abilities, it’s important to stress this strict rule to kids: never wander in Komodo Island without adults and always ask parents’ permission before doing anything. As a good predator as they are, Komodo’s camouflage skills is very impressive and they are known to ambush their prey from a perfectly hidden spot.
Do Exercise with Your Kids; Stroller is Not Recommended
Komodo National Park is a rough terrain. The islands are naturally left wild—dusty, rocky, and wavy—with no paved paths. Strollers are practically useless, they can snap in a split of second in such terrain. Tell your kids that they’ll need to walk a long way and do a lot of hike during their trip in Komodo, and they can’t use the stroller given of the condition. Before going to Komodo, spare some time with your kids to do exercise together and train their muscles (and yours, too).
While it’s time for land exploration, prepare to go as light as possible; only carry the most essential needs and leave less necessary things in the boat. You gonna need your hands and shoulder to carry them along, eventually.
