Face to Face with Komodo Dragons – Rinca Island

Bowen Mercy

Sailing through the rugged islands of Komodo National Park, we set our sights on Rinca, one of the few places in the world where you can see Komodo dragons in the wild. The landscape was dry and dramatic, with golden hills rolling into deep blue waters. As we stepped onto the island, the heat was intense, and the air felt thick with the weight of something ancient. Guided by rangers, we followed a winding trail through the bush, eyes scanning for movement. It didn’t take long before we spotted them—Komodo dragons, the last living dinosaurs, basking in the sun and lurking in the shade of trees. Massive, prehistoric, and eerily still, until one flicked its tongue, testing the air for scents. Seeing them up close was both thrilling and humbling—a reminder of just how wild and untamed this part of the world still is. Kota was in awe, watching them with wide eyes, taking in every detail. This was the kind of adventure we’d been dreaming of, the kind of experience you can’t capture in pictures alone. Another incredible moment added to our journey through Indonesia.

Boat & Crew

Tayrona

Lagoon, 380

Shona

Captain

Bowen Mercy

Owner