Gili Motang
Island Island in Komodo National Park, Komodo dragon habitat
Gili Motang sits inside Komodo National Park and is noted for its small Komodo dragon population; boat trips and nearby dive sites bring most visitors.
Gili Motang is a small island in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, located within Komodo National Park. It is notable for supporting populations of the Komodo dragon and for its dry, island ecosystem.
The island’s limited land area consists mainly of dry forest and scrub that provide habitat for Komodo dragons and associated reptiles and birds. Visits are normally made as part of organized park boat tours and are restricted under national park rules.
Gili Motang became part of Komodo National Park when the park was established, and the entire park was later inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Protection under the park framework focuses on species conservation and regulated tourism.
The island sits in the waters between Flores and other islands of the Komodo archipelago and is reached only by boat from Flores or other park islands.
- Protected area: Part of Komodo National Park and subject to park regulations and guided-visit rules for safety and conservation.
- Access: Accessible only by boat as part of park tour itineraries; overnight facilities on the island are minimal or absent.
What to See #
- Dragon habitat: Dry forest and shrubland habitat on the island provides the ecological niche used by resident Komodo dragons and associated fauna.
How to Get to Gili Motang #
Access is by chartered boat as part of Komodo National Park itineraries, usually departing from Labuan Bajo on Flores. Landing permissions and park fees may apply.
Tips for Visiting Gili Motang #
- Arrange boat access from Labuan Bajo or local harbors; Gili Motang is remote and part of Komodo National Park's broader marine zoning.
- Respect conservation rules - Komodo National Park has strict rules on anchoring, fishing and landings to protect endangered species.
- If interested in Komodo dragons, include a licensed park guide - sightings are regulated and guided for safety.
Best Time to Visit Gili Motang #
April-December is the prime window for sea travel and clearer marine conditions.
Weather & Climate near Gili Motang #
Gili Motang's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1791 mm/year), wettest in January with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (349 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (326 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (262 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Significant rainfall (149 mm).
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May
May is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (110 mm).
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June
June is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Moderate rainfall (43 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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August
August is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. The driest month with just 24 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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November
November is the warmest month with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Significant rainfall (146 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (245 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
