WELCOME TO THE START OF YOUR
GREAT CREATURES ADVENTURE

"Men prefer to believe that they are degenerated angels, rather than elevated apes". William Winwood Reade (1874). “The Martyrdom of Man”

You are about to embark on an adventure in a place and among people whose lives are very different from your own. Many aspects of life in Indonesia will seem unusual. Remember that these are often the same aspects that make an area an exotic and attractive destination. While this trip is rated a “Balanced Break”, it still has sections that will be challenging.

In addition to the personal physical challenges you may face, travel conditions can present unexpected obstacles, such as rough and bumpy roads and changeable weather. To prepare for this “pack” a flexible and relaxed attitude. Bring a spirit of adventure and inquiry, a healthy sense of humour, and a willingness to encounter the unexpected, and you will find your trip to Indonesia the adventure of a lifetime!

Much of the following information will be sent to you again as part of your Joining Instructions, but we thought you might like to start planning for your departure. So exciting!

TWO ADVENTURES IN ONE!

Our Great Creatures Adventure will take you to two distinctly different ecosystems in Indonesia.

The Komodo Islands lie east of the Wallace Line which ruins between Bali and Lombok and Sulawesi and Borneo. This line roughly delineates between Asia and the tropics and Australasia which is more arid.

You will see this when you travel there. The Komodo Islands are usually quite dry. Their isolation has led to extremes in flora and fauna. Giant lizards, small elephants and small humanoids (note the Hobbit or more accurately Homo floresiensis).

Borneo on the other hand is a tropical rainforest. It is home to monkeys, gibbons, and apes, none of which are found in Flores (at least not naturally).

Your modes of transport however will be similar. In the Komodos, we will have a large support boat and sea kayaks to traverse the waters in and around the park. Sea kayaking is of course not mandatory and if you wish to not partake in it, you can simply observe nature from the upper deck.

Likewise in Borneo. We will have a river boat or klotok to take us up the Sekonyer River to observe not only Orangutans but also gibbons and proboscis nose monkeys.

Both journeys will have walks on land. In the Komodos, these will be a little more strenuous as the islands are quite hilly. However, in Borneo, the land is mostly flat.

Without further ado let’s set off on each part of the trip. 

Here Be Dragons!

Despite its common association as a reference for uncharted or unknown waters, no actual map has ever noted "Hic sunt dracones" (Here be Dragons)! Only one, globe (from 1504), the Hunt-Lenox Globe contains the reference (and some speculate that it may in fact reference the Komodo Dragons).

Worry not! We’re not really sending you into uncharted waters.

The reality is, our Indonesian-based team actually knows these waters like the back of their hands!

But the Dragons? Well, they are most certainly very real and certainly an incredible sight to behold as we become guests in their domain!

Evidence suggests that the Komodo Dragon may have actually evolved in Australia before global conditions changed significantly isolating it to the Indonesian archipelago (where it once ranged as far as Timor).

The islands of Komodo and Rinca are two of the limited habitats where the Dragons still roam. We will visit one of these islands to walk with these mighty beasts during this time.

Komodo Dragons have been known to be as long-lived as 30 years, and grow up to 3 meters in length; fearsome indeed! 

Formerly feared for their bacteria-loaded saliva distributed through their bite, this in fact has been disapproved. Rumors of their toxic bite have been out there too. However, recent research shows that while Komodo Dragons secrete venomous proteins in their mouths and their saliva is venomous to some degree, it is not deadly.

Their victims die not because of blood poisoning but because of fast blood loss – enhanced by the venom – and occasional infections due to other reasons. Indeed their most powerful weapon is their serrated, curved, and large teeth, ready to cause some serious injury. Left untreated, infection, and the possibility of death would become very real.

Always follow the directions of our local guides and park rangers to be safe and marvel at these incredible creatures!

If there aren't any males around, the female Komodo Dragon has both genders chromosomes and can reproduce asexually!

Your Journey

Guest Portal

You can update all your personal information directly in our Guest’s Portal. There, you can add your Insurance, Flight Details, and anything else we need for the trip. When you first click on the link you will be asked to reset your password. Please use the same email address you used for your booking.

The Paddling Experience

Komodo Islands are a part of the Coral Triangle, which contains some of the richest marine biodiversity on Earth.

As you’re by now hopefully aware, you don’t need to be an Olympic Kayaker to relish this experience.

We’d suggest that the higher your level of fitness, the greater enjoyment you’ll find, and ease with which you’ll get through each paddling day.

That said, for anybody that does find the going tough and just wants to take a break or even a day off, there’s no issue with leaving the water and returning to the boat.

It’s your trip, and we want you to do it your way to gain the most enjoyment!

If you are a little unsure, or just want to discuss your own level of fitness with someone, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Safety regulations do restrict us to a maximum weight of 100kg per single kayak, and 200kg for twin kayaks.

A Day in the Komodos

Our crew is dedicated to break days up in a combination of paddling, refreshing snorkelling time, and nature walks.

Time is spent mostly on or in the water in your paddling and swimming gear, interrupted by a few island and beach walks and of course the walk with the Dragons.

Mornings are early with the sun warming up quickly and so will your tent. A snorkel before breakfast if you wish and then off to a stretch of paddling before lunch. More snorkelling or a nap…, all personal choice, before a stroll in one of the local fishing villages. Sunsets are marvellous and should be honoured from the top deck with a refreshing drink and snacks before dinner.

A game of cards or chess if you are up for it might finish the day or possibly catching up on some reading, before falling asleep in your safari tent to the sound of the lapping waves under the firmament of thousands of stars.

The Kayaks

The kayaks we use are called Komodos. No, seriously they are named after the Komodo Dragons by coincidence purely due to the fact that they are as long and nearly as heavy as one.

They are Australian-designed and manufactured. The kayaks are adjustable meaning they can be dismantled and made into 1, 2, or 3-man craft.

Usually, on an expedition, you will share a double kayak and if you prefer to paddle in a single kayak, please let your Operations Manager know before departing for your trip. Single kayaks are distributed following the “First Come First Served” philosophy.

The kayaks are made out of durable plastic and are perfectly suited for expeditions such as this. They have large storage space in both the front and back of the craft as well as secure deck straps for immediate use equipment storage. Their greater torso width, compared to frequently used sea kayaks, provides more stability and safety.

Each kayak comes with a handheld bilge pump and compass. We also have spare tow lines and octopus straps.

Each kayaker will be provided with a paddle, a floatation device, and a spray deck to keep water out of the capsule.

The Komodo Kayaks slot together like a jigsaw puzzle and are then secured together by nuts on both the top and bottom of the craft. These nuts are routinely checked and tightened to ensure the kayak is functioning at full capacity. You will be asked to check your kayak and personal equipment each morning and afternoon. 

Man of the Forest

Male Orangutan often weigh over 200 pounds, where females are 1/3 to 1/2 his size.

The Orangutan portion of your adventure is a more leisurely affair compared to the Dragon portion. 

On our journey we will be taken up the Sekonyer River into the Tanjung Puting National Park, to observe the Orangutan in the wild.

This area was once a rehabilitation centre for once captive Orangutans to be re-introduced back into the wild. Some of the orangutans you will encounter, are ex-captive orangutans. But many are wild Orangutan.

From your klotok, you will also observe gibbons, proboscis nose monkeys, grey macaque, hornbills, false gavial crocodiles, and more.

Each day we will visit feeding stations that still assist some of the ex-captive orangutans with food. These are great opportunities to get close to one of our nearest genetic neighbors.

Getting There and Away

Orangutan females only give birth about once every 8 years - the longest time between births of any mammal on earth. (This results in only 4 to 5 babies in her lifetime.) This is why Orangutan populations are very slow to recover from any disturbances.

International Arrivals

You will arrive at one of the two major international airports in either Bali or Jakarta. 

Domestic Flights to Labuan Bajo

Flights to Labuan Bajo usually operate daily from Bali and multiple times a week from Jakarta.

Flights to most destinations are conducted on jet aircraft. However, flights to Lombok from Bali and some flights in Borneo are also conducted using twin-propeller aircraft.

Luggage Allowance

Garuda Airlines: 20kg
Wings Air: 15kg
Lion Air: 15kg
Sriwijaya Air/NAM Air:15kg

Trans Nusa Airlines: 15kg
Kal Star Aviation: 10kg
Trigana Air: 10kg

You have the option to pay for excess luggage which is around AUD $5 per kilo. We are very sorry that we cannot be more accurate.

Weather

We are running our Great Creatures trips in the dry season of the Komodo Islands, so in the perfect scenario, you should not experience much or any rain. While visiting the Orangutan can be done year round, the Komodo islands do have a distinct rainy season from December to March.

However, the influence of climate change is changing weather conditions everywhere and we might experience some showers during the trip.

Conditions can be windy at times depending on the season. If it is too windy or unsafe to kayak we will cover the distance in our support boat.

Temperatures in the park are always warm ranging from mid 20’s – to mid 30’s during the day and low 20’s – mid 20’s during the night. The sun is very strong so you must protect yourself at all times even if the sky appears to be cloudy.

Please click here for more information about the weather in the Komodo National Park.

Travel Documents

Did you know? In 2020 to discourage people from leaving their homes at night, the island of Java began employing people dressed as 'Pocong' (ghostly figures said to represent the trapped souls of the dead in local folklore) during the Covid-19 pandemic!

Indonesian Tourist Visa

Visa entry requirements to Indonesia have recently changed due to COVID 19.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available for passport holders of  64 countries including, Australian, UK, US, and German nationals arriving at the international airports of Bali or Jakarta. For our Australian guests who require more information about the Indonesian Visa entry regulations please check on Smartraveller or please click here for further information

Applicants must have the following to obtain the visa:

· Passport valid for more than 6 months

· Return or onward ticket

The cost for the visa on arrival (VOA) is 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah (AUD 50,00) and is valid for a 30-day stay. To apply for the visa, you must show evidence of a return or onward flight booking to another country and health insurance that covers financing for COVID-19 treatment and medical evacuation to a referral hospital. 

Bali Tourist Levy

From the 14th of February 2024, The Bali Provincial Government is charging a Tourist Levy for all tourists. The Levy is 150,000 Rp (AUD$15).

You can pay for this on arrival OR you can pay for it online before arriving. Click here to pay online.

Insurance

Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions. Once you have booked on an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons. For our Australian guests, our preferred Insurer is NIB, and you can contact our office direct, via phone or email, to obtain an insurance quote from us.

For guests travelling with us from outside Australia, please check Travel Insurance options within your Country.

If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.

In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.

Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.

Get a Quote

While we don’t anticipate any uninvited medical disruptions during your trek, No Roads wants to keep your mind at ease and help you get adequate assistance and cover for your well-earned time away. It is extremely important that we ensure you’re covered during your great alpine experience.

We are able to provide you with Travel Insurance for your trip, allowing you to tick this off your ‘To-Do List” as soon as possible. (We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance)!

Already have a trusted insurance provider?

That’s no problem at all, our primary concern is that you have adequate coverage.

Got a Pre-Existing Condition?

Simply call our Insurance Team and quote the reference number we provide you with and they’ll complete an assessment on your behalf. In many cases, there is no additional premium that needs to be paid! Many common conditions are also automatically covered. 

For all other nationalities please explore insurance providers in your country.

Again, if you’ve any questions, don’t hesitate to ask info@noroads.com.au.

Things to Remember with Insurance

Insurance contact number:
 
Please provide the insurance company with a personal number that is actually contactable when you are abroad (an Australian number without global roaming is of little use when the insurance company is attempting to contact you)
 
Please ensure you travel with:
 

A Credit Card/Travel Card that can be used internationally. Often, any medical centre or hospital will require payment sooner than some insurance companies will have approved payment (meaning you need to be able to pay them, then seek reimbursement from your insurer).

The international emergency contact number for your insurance company. We will initiate emergency procedures for you, however, it is a far easier process for you to coordinate matters with the insurance company directly (most things we are unable to finalise on your behalf).

Documents to keep on your person, or obtain in event of emergency:

A copy of your flight itinerary with information including – Ticket Number, Airline Reference Number (PNR), Agency Flight Reference Number (if purchased via a travel agency/3rd party as well as contact information for them)

A copy of a Medical report (if you required treatment) and keep copies of all receipts for anything that you have been required to pay.

 

Remember to travel with a copy of your policy or at least your policy number and provider

In the unlikely event of an emergency No Roads and our local team will try their best to provide the best assistance and support to our injured guests. 
 
This is why we request you provide us with the following information via your Guest Portal:
 
– Name of Insurance Company
– Your Insurance Policy Number
– The 24 hour Emergency Assistance number of your Insurance Company
 
This information is vital for both our head office team, and guides on the trail in ensuring we can provide you access to emergency care in the unlikely event of an accident.

Immunization

We suggest you consult your doctor to confirm if any current vaccinations or treatments are required for the area you are travelling to. You should consider cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis vaccinations and make sure your tetanus cover is up to date, however, this should all be discussed with your medical physician.

Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations (seriously, vaccinations are one thing that should NEVER be left until the last minute when TIME can truly be your enemy). Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, while some vaccinations should not be given together. This also applies to some malaria prophylactics, which have to be begun at least a week before you leave home.

Typhoid: Recommended for Indonesia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.

Hepatitis A: Recommended for Indonesia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.

Cholera: Recommended for Indonesia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.

Tuberculosis: Recommended for Indonesia. Ideally 3 months before travel.

Hepatitis B: Recommended for Indonesia. Ideally 2 months before travel.

Yellow Fever: Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Indonesia. Ideally 10 days before travel.

Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended for Indonesia. Ideally 1 month before travel.

Polio: Recommend a Polio booster. Ideally 4-6 weeks before travel.

Malaria: Consider this seriously

Please be advised that the Labuan Bajo and Komodo areas have strong Malaria populations and as such all precautions need to be made while on land

Accommodation

Unable to find a boat quite up to No Roads Expeditions standard, our support vessel was actually custom built back in 2018!

Here at No Roads, we believe a good night’s sleep can make your day!

While the choice of accommodation might be limited in some of the places we travel to, all of our hotels are picked to provide a comfortable and welcoming home away from home.

In Bali we use the Holiday Inn as it has a great pool area, the rooms are excellent and it is close to the airport.

In Labuan Bajo, we use the Puri Sari, a wonderful hotel on the beach.

In Pangkalan Bun we use the Grand Kecubung Hotel which is a modern and well-appointed hotel.

Aboard the Boat and klotok

In the Komodo Islands, you will spend at least one night onboard our vessel, where western-style bathrooms, 3 cabins with fan and AC (a master bedroom with queen bed, and others with a mixture of bunks and shared-style sleeping arrangements) await. There is a dining area and a sun deck on the top level.

The klotok we use will depend on the group size. For small groups of 2 we will have a two-bedroom klotok with separate bathrooms and an observation and meals deck. For larger groups, we will have a larger klotok with more rooms to accommodate. Mattresses and sheets are made available in all rooms.

On the Beach (Komodo Islands)

Most nights, we’ll be making camp on remote shores in Safari style tents where you can sleep lulled by the sounds of lapping water and wake to watch the most brilliant sunrises

Packing for Adventure

Orangutans are highly intelligent with ability to reason and think. This large, gentle red ape is one of our closest relatives, sharing 97% of our DNA.

On top of the list below, we recommend you bring a fresh set of clothes to leave in your hotel (if your itinerary has you returning to the same hotel at the end of your expedition). This way you will have a very fresh set of clothes to change into when you return from your expedition.

Please ensure that if you are leaving a bag at the hotel that your bag is locked and that no valuables are left in your luggage.

There really isn’t much to bring on our Great Creatures trip, but what you do bring should be packed into a water-resistant outdoor bag. 

PERSONAL GEAR

  • Passport
  • Airline tickets (international & domestic)
  • Insurance policy – 2 copies (1 for you and 1 for our Guide)
  • Personal toiletries – Toothbrush and paste, sports deodorant, lip balm, etc.
  • T-shirts & Shorts or Summer dresses
  • Sleepwear
  • Underwear
  • Bathers & Sarong
  • Sea-kayaking clothing (shorts, sun protection “rash” shirt, and gloves to avoid blisters). Gloves and a rash shirt are highly recommended. 
  • Runners or light hiking boots & socks
  • Pair of thongs to wear around camp and in villages
  • Hard-soled wetsuit booties or sandals for sea-kayaking. Keen Sandals or Crocs are good
  • Hat with wide rim (to keep the sun off your face)
  • Waterproof torch or headlamp with spare batteries
  • Rain poncho (something lightweight)
  • Quick-dry sports towel/chamois
  • One roll of your favourite toilet paper for backup
  • Sunscreen
  • Wet wipes or antiseptic hand gel
  • Surgical Face Mask
  • Tropical strength insect repellent
  • Polarised sunglasses (with retaining cord) and a spare set just in case
  • A book or kindle for reading (optional)
  • Camera (optional)
  • Additional snacks – barley sugar, mentos, chocolate, muesli bars, etc (optional)
  • Personal flippers and mask – we do have a range onboard our support boat for you to use (optional)
  • Mosquito net and anchor points (if you want to sleep out in the open outside your tent) (optional)

*If you have something you are particularly prone to, ear infections or sinus problems, please ensure you bring any necessary medications with you.

PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT

Your personal First Aid kit will contain band-aids, blister dressings, topical cream for bites and grazes, antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, paracetamol, Deep Heat or another muscle liniment, and the all-important insect repellent. We also recommend bringing your personal “Reef Rash Kit”. We recommend if you are traveling in a group that you share a First Aid Kit. Please note that a first aid kit will be carried by your Guide. 

SLEEPING GEAR

No Roads will provide a 2 man mosquito-proof safari-style tent which will be shared with your traveling partner or another guest of the same gender. You will also be provided with a stretcher bed and a self-inflating mat. We will provide a small pillow and light weight blanket which are only used on our beach camps.

For the nights that you sleep onboard a boat, linen will be provided for you.

LAND WEAR

We will be doing a little bit of trekking so just a lightweight runner will be sufficient.

Note: If you have any questions regarding the above list or any other items that you want to ask about please do not hesitate to contact us. We can provide you with additional information at any time

Supplied Equipment

  • Two-person safari-style tent (Komodo Islands)
  • Sea kayak, paddle, and safety equipment including PFD (personal flotation device)
  • Support boat for meals, accommodation (1 night), and store equipment
  • Klotok in Borneo
  • Snorkeling Equipment
  • Fresh Water to rinse
  • Drinking Water
  • Softdrinks and Juices
  • Tea/ Coffee
  • All meals on boat including some snacks
  • Inflatable mattresses and stretcher beds
  • All eating and drinking equipment

Our Team

Without our locally based teams, our efforts to deliver you the most immersive, enjoyable, challenging and rewarding experience quite simply, would not be possible.

Our dedicated crews will be on hand to keep you safe, prepare campsites and meals during stops, aboard the boat as well as on sandy beaches, and do anything else possible to assist should the need arise.

Tipping

In case you would like to show your appreciation to a particular Guide for a job well done, do so at your own discretion.  Also, remember to mention the good service provided to a member of the tour Operations Management to be used as an example to encourage better staff performance and excellence. 

Komodo Tipping

A typical daily tip is approximately Rp 150,000 or AUD$ 15. This is per kayaker/guest not per support staff member. Thus on a 5-day kayak a reasonable tip would be Rp 750,000 or AUD $75 per kayaker/guest

Orangutan Tipping

Similarly, a typical daily tip is approximately Rp 150,000 or AUD$ 15. This is per guest not per support staff member. Thus on a 3-day journey, a reasonable tip would be Rp 450,000 or AUD $45 per guest

We've Got You Covered

Kayaking guide with walkie talkie komodo islands

General Travel Advise

All No Roads staff and teams consider guest safety and well-being an absolute priority and always follow the travel advice and guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Smartraveller.

To further maintain the safety of our travelers, we promote good personal and hand hygiene along with adherence to safe food preparation practices.

Special Dietary Requirements 

We are able to cater to all common special dietary requirements. Whilst on the expedition most of your meals will be Indonesian-based meals. Please advise us prior to your departure if you have any food allergies we should be aware of.

The No Roads team will do everything it can to support any allergies which might require a special diet, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made for all meals. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests to assist us by providing this information while travelling in situations or instances where it may be required.

Hydration

As the temperature can be hot and humid in Indonesia, it is always a good idea to stay as hydrated as you can. Sometimes with the combination of kayaking, snorkeling, trekking, or a slight tummy upset, you may not realise that your levels of hydration have dropped. To avoid dehydration we suggest drinking plenty of water throughout the day and even having an electrolyte replacement if necessary.   

Please use the urine chart provided in the bathrooms on the support boat throughout your expedition, to gauge your fluid intake whilst on the trip. If you start to feel the effects of dehydration or heat stress, please make sure you inform your Guide immediately.

Women’s Health Issues

The Komodo Dragon has a very keen sense of smell, and being Carnivores, they can smell blood from miles away. 

As a requirement to visit the Komodo Dragons, Park Rangers will ask if any female adventurers are menstruating at the time of the trek. If so, you may not be allowed to go for the trek through Rinca Island as it will not only put you in danger but may put the others in your group in danger.

Of course, you can lie to the Ranger but you can’t lie to a Komodo Dragon. If you have any concerns in this area, please discuss the same with your Guide prior to your arrival at Rinca Island.

Alternatives we suggest, are:

  • Choose an expedition date that is compatible with your menstrual cycle
  • If you are on a contraceptive pill, skip your period while on the expedition
  • Don’t do this part of the trip. You will still be able to go to the Rangers office with the group and see the Dragons there, but you will not be able to do the trek. Keep in mind, the trek takes approximately 2-3 hours so bring a book to keep you occupied.

COVID 19

To ensure the safety of yourself, your fellow guests, the No Roads team, and the local communities we ask you to follow the international safety advise if you develop any symptoms. 

Our team will do everything it can to support you and to ensure you are adequately prepared for your trip. However, in this fast-moving environment, we encourage all guests to monitor relevant travel- and entry documentation-related information for your trip on equivalent official websites as part of your preparation process.

Additional Information & Support

If you have any comments, questions, or want more information please let us know. We are here to support you with all information to help you prepare for your travels to Indonesia.

Emergency Services

Ambulance Tel: 118
Fire Tel: 113
Police Tel: 110
Rescue Tel: 115, 111 or 151

Clinics in Labuan Bajo

Siloam Private Hospital, Labuan Bajo

J l. Gabriel Gampur RT 013 RW 005, Desa Gorontalo, Labuan Bajo
Tel: (0385) 238 1900
Emergency Number: (0385) 238 1911

Physical Preparation

The National Institute of Aeronautics and Space advise that Indonesia is comprised of 18,307 islands! (That's at low tide of course).

Fitness

All participants must make an effort to get in good physical condition for the trip they have signed up for, obviously the fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find this expedition. Every participant should have a health check with a medical physician to ensure that they are in good physical health prior to embarking on their trip. No Roads is not a medical adviser and we take no legal responsibility for medical or other emergencies that may arise on the course of a trek.  As the service provider and hosts, we will take all necessary steps needed to evacuate injured or ill clients on the understanding that all costs involved will be paid to us before leaving the country (see Insurance).

While not everyone has access to a kayak, we do suggest that you try one so that you understand what is involved with paddling. If you own or have access to a stand-up paddleboard try and fit this into your regular training regime. A rowing machine is also excellent training for these types of adventures.  

Lower back, upper body, and core strength training are all also very important when kayaking, so try and incorporate some training in these areas. For those without access to gyms,  push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups are excellent and all can be done at home or when you are out walking/jogging. Please consult a professional trainer for advice on training if you are unsure or starting a fitness program for the first time.

Due to safety regulations, our kayaks can hold a maximum capacity of 100kg for a single kayak and 200kg for a double kayak. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this please contact our office to discuss this further.   We hope this helps you all enjoy your time on expedition.

We've Been We Know

No Roads has been operating in the Komodo Islands since 2008 and has since supported local community projects such as buidling schools, as well as solar and water supply.

It’s time for a confession.

It took time to get this good at what we do!

This was never through a lack of trying, but the reality is after 14 years in sending guests across the world, we’ve learned a thing or two…

Here are a few more pointers we thought would be useful before you board your flight (or flights) to Indonesia!

Money

The currency in Indonesia is the Rupiah (Rp). Exchange rates vary depending on the strength of the US dollar and you can access the most updated exchange rates by clicking on the attached link. Cash and travelers cheques are readily accepted and can be exchanged for Rupiah at the airport, hotels, or banks in any major city. Credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and MasterCard are accepted in many hotels, shops, and restaurants in major towns and cities. There are also plenty of ATMs in Bali and a few ATMs in Labuan Bajo and Pangkalan Bun. For spending money while on your expedition it is best to have money in local currency (Rp).

Approximate current exchange rates as of November 2022:

1AUD = 10,017Rp

1USD = 14,300Rp

1GBP = 16,938Rp

For this trip you will need cash for:

Meals not listed in your itinerary. (Total approximately Rp 1,000,000)

Personal items such as laundry, phone calls, snacks, etc.

Extra Alcoholic/bottled beverages and drinks. A water fountain, local soft drinks, tea, and coffee are provided (on the kayaking leg of your trip only).

Tips. All tipping is at your discretion (approx Rp 150,000 per day).

Souvenirs and handicrafts.

Please note, alcohol can be expensive in Indonesia (particularly wine). We recommend buying duty-free spirits etc if you wish to take some on the boat. Please purchase cans, no glass bottles, to consume on the boat, if you want to buy beer and soft drinks locally.

Power (and connectivity) in Indonesia

Indonesia uses 220 Volt for its electricity. (A few years ago, the voltage was 110V. But then was switched to 220 Volt.) The voltage in many places is unstable.

The electrical outlet has two round holes, similar to those in continental Europe, or 2 parallel flat pins with a ground pin.

Indonesia power plugs

School Visit

A lot of guests ask what they can bring with them to hand out to the children on the school visit and our suggestion is always to only bring a small number of supplies and something that is light to carry in your luggage. The school and children are always happy to receive any donations by the way of writing materials, colouring books, cards, pens, pencils, stickers, sports equipment, such as tennis balls, skipping ropes, bats and balls, etc. Please do not feel obliged to bring anything with you to donate to the school as this is a personal choice for each individual.

The Environment

Many of the places you will visit are pristine. As travelers, we should try to have as little impact on these natural environments as possible. As such we recommend the following:

1. We discourage the use of soaps when washing both body and clothes. Vigorous scrubbing is usually sufficient. Even biodegradable soap is not good for any watercourse and as such is harmful to the ecosystem. We do provide fresh water to rinse off the saltwater during the trip. However, freshwater is limited and has to be carried from Labuan Bajo. There is no fresh water available within the National Park.

2. Please do not dispose of plastic bags and wrappers in either pits or in fires. These take years to degrade or let off toxic fumes when burnt. Simply put them in your pack until you return home (they can be discarded in waste bins before going through customs and immigration).

3. Please do not dispose of batteries in country. They are extremely harmful to the environment and usually, local governments do not have any means to dispose of them correctly. Return old batteries to your home country for disposal there.

4. At campsites use toilet facilities that are provided for your use.

By abiding by these simple guidelines, you will be protecting the local environment for the people who live there and for your children’s children.

Safety

Welcome Meeting & Safety Briefing

More information and guidelines will be given to you prior to the start of your kayaking adventure, either at your Welcome Meeting with our Local Manager or at the safety briefing with your Guide. Topics discussed then will include the following subjects.

  • How to kayak.
  • Lodging, meals, and other conditions while on expedition.
  • Safety procedures.
  • Evacuation Procedures.
  • Cultural and Environmental Considerations.
  • Other relevant information.

Leaving a Good Impression

Sustainable Travel

We believe strongly in low impact or rather a positive impact from tourism. Broadly speaking, this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please see our online policy for more details on our social and environmental approach and commitment.

The Environment

Many of the places you will visit are pristine. As travelers, we should try to have as little impact on these natural environments as possible. As such we recommend the following:

  • Please do not dispose of plastic bags and wrappers in the water or countryside along the way. These may be put in your kayak or backpack and disposed of at your local hotel or campsite at the end of the day.
  • During treks follow the well-marked walking tracks and avoid walking through grassland and regrowth areas. 
  •  Do not touch or feed any wildlife spotted on the way as you might distress and cause severe harm to the animal. Avoid touching corals with your flippers while snorkeling as this might cause harm to you and the marine flora.

By abiding by these simple guidelines, you will be protecting the local environment for the people who live there and for their children’s children.

Tongue Teasers

Recommended Restaurants in Labuan Bajo

The following are a couple of suggestions for Labuan Bajo. However, more visitors bring more options and we might have missed one of the new joints. Any new recommendations are always welcome.

Puri Sari: Simple food prepared fresh each day by the hotel staff. Mains approx $5-$10.

Made In Italy: Simply the Best Italian food outside of Italy! No, really it is amazing and a must. Mains approx $8-$15.

Mediterraneo: Another excellent Italian restaurant with a relaxed feel. Mains approx $8-$15.

Le Pirate: Restaurant and Lounge Bar. International and Indonesian cuisine. Main Road Labuan Bajo. Mains $8-$12.

Paradise Bar: Excellent sunset spot for a chilled Bintang with views over the Komodo Park and islands. They offer simple food too. Hilltop, Labuan Bajo. Mains approx $3-$5

Bajo Bakery: Excellent bread, pastry, and muffins to accompany your cappuccino or fruit shake. Main road Labuan Bajo.

Happy Banana: Sushi restaurant. Excellent fresh sushi and special vegetarian meals in a cosy environment. Check out dates for the live music. Main Road Labuan Bajo. Mains approx $8-$13.

Bajo Bay: Excellent Seafood from the catch of the day. Dine right next to the waterfront overlooking the “Phinisi” anchoring in front of Labuan Bajo or enjoy a drink in the bar above. Main road before fish market. Mains approx $5-10.

Bajo Taco: Mexican food, the real deal! The menu changes regularly and what is on offer is nice and fresh. Start with a frozen Margarita to finish off the day. Main road Labuan Bajo, same building as Bajo Bakery. Mains approx $6-10.

Ayana Rooftop Bar: Great sunset spot to start or finish your time in the Komodo National with one of the all-time favourite cocktails or the bar’s own creations. AYANA Komodo Resort, Waecicu Beach Waecicu Beach, Labuan Bajo. Cocktails are pricy but it is worth the treat!

Know The Lingo

Around 700 living languages are spoken across Indonesia. That equates to Indonesia having roughly 10% of the world’s languages!

Just a few words can get you a long way in Indonesia. Below is a small list of some important phrases though we suggest you bring a small Indonesian Phrasebook to help along the way.

General – English

Yes – Ya 
O.K.
No / not
Thank you 
You’re welcome
Please
Please help me
Excuse me
Sorry
What time is it?
This
That
Where have you just come from? 
What country are you from?
Where are you going?
Be careful / attention
Very delicious

General – Bahasa Indonesia

Tentu.
Beres.
Tidak / bukan.
Terima kasih.
Kembali.
Tolong / Silakan.
Tolonglah saya.
Permisi.
Ma’af.
Jam berapa?
Ini.
Itu.
Dari mana? 
Tuan asal dari mana?
Mau ke mana?
Hati Hati!
Sangat lezat

Greetings and Civilities – English

Good morning
Good afternoon
Good evening
Good night
Goodbye
How are you?
I am fine
What is your name? 
My name is… 
Nice to meet you 
See you later 
Goodbye (said to people leaving) 
Goodbye (said to people staying) 
I do not understand 
I do not speak Indonesian 

Greetings and Civilities – Bahasa Indonesia

Selamat Pagi
Selamat Siang.
Selamat Sore.
Selamat Malam.
Selamat Tinggal.
Apa Kabar?
Kabar Baik.
Siapa nama anda?
Nama saya…
Senang berkenalan dengan anda.
Sampai jumpa lagi.
Selamat jalan.
Selamat tinggal.
Saya tidak mengerti.
Saya tidak mengerti bahasa.

Checklist

Please make sure you have the following items before you travel to the airport for your flight to Indonesia.

  1. Luggage – water-resistant duffel bag with personal clothing/equipment, etc.
  2. Day pack (backpack) as hand luggage.
  3. Valid passport.
  4. Photocopy of the main page of your passport.
  5. Return Airfares and other travel documents.
  6. Medical/travel insurance papers/certificates plus 2 copies of your policy.
  7. Credit cards or cash for expenses while in Indonesia.
  8. Personal First Aid Kit

Give Us A Shout

No Roads Expeditions Hub

Office: (03) 95988581
24 hrs Access:
Irene Miller + 61 430 705 222
Peter Miller + 61 425 726 623
Email: info@noroads.com.au  

We sincerely hope that you have the most wonderful trip!