Loh Buaya Resort is one of the seven official entry points to Komodo National Park, covering an area of approximately 500 hectares. Located on Rinca Island, Loh Buaya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the park due to its proximity to Labuan Bajo, making it more accessible than the park’s more remote areas.

What’s in a Name?

The name Loh Buaya comes from local folklore. “Loh” means valley, while “Buaya” means crocodile. Some say the name refers to saltwater crocodiles once seen in the area, while others believe it refers to the land-dwelling Komodo dragons that roam the valleys like ancient reptiles.

Home of the Komodo Dragon

Loh Buaya is one of the best places to observe Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. As of the 2022 monitoring data, there are around 60 individual Komodo dragons living in the Loh Buaya valleys. Rangers and researchers have tagged 52 of them with pit tags, small devices used to monitor the dragons’ health and growth over time.

But it’s not just Komodo dragons that call Loh Buaya home. You may also spot:

• Timor deer (Rusa timorensis)
• Water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
• Wild boars (Sus scrofa)
• Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis)
• Wild horses (Equus sp.)
• Great Rinca rats (Rattus rintjanus, endemic)
• Over 40 species of birds
• 11 species of mangroves along the coastal area

These species form part of the Komodo dragon’s ecosystem, many serving as its prey.

Trekking Trails in Loh Buaya

There are currently two trekking options that allow tourists to explore Loh Buaya’s stunning savanna grasslands, forests, and valleys, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape and its wildlife.

1. Elevated Deck Trail (+400 meters)

This 2-meter high wooden deck leads you through the Komodo Information Center Complex, complete with a cafeteria, souvenir shops, and impressive modern architecture. The trail offers easy access for casual visitors and great photo spots, as well as elevated views of Komodo dragons and other wildlife below.

At the Komodo Information Center, tourists can engage with naturalist guides, explore detailed exhibits about the park, and try out the digital interpretation service “SiOra”, available as a mobile app.

2. Hidden Nirvana Trail (+1,100 meters round trip)

For a more immersive wilderness experience, the Hidden Nirvana trail takes around 60 minutes and winds through savanna and forest terrain. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, visitors have the chance to encounter Komodo dragons in the wild, discover orange-footed scrub fowl nests, fossil sites, and seasonal waterholes, and reach a scenic hilltop viewpoint.

⚠️ Tip: Wear proper trekking shoes and bring water. Wildlife may appear suddenly—follow all ranger instructions for safety.

Loh Buaya is more than just a gateway—it’s a vital conservation area and an unforgettable place to witness the true essence of Komodo National Park. Whether you’re walking the deck or hiking into the hidden valleys, this destination is a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper connection with the park’s wild wonders.