The Sunrise Summit of Komodo
Rising from the cerulean waters of the Flores Sea like a crown of rolling golden hills, Gili Lawa is one of the most visually dramatic islands in all of Komodo National Park. Often called Gili Lawa Darat by locals, this uninhabited volcanic island rewards early risers with one of the most unforgettable sunrise experiences in Southeast Asia — a 360-degree panorama where the sky ignites in shades of amber, coral, and violet over an archipelago of more than a dozen islands scattered across an impossibly blue horizon.
The trek to the summit begins just as darkness gives way to the first whispers of dawn. A well-worn trail winds upward through knee-high golden savannah grass, fragrant with the scent of wild herbs carried on the morning breeze. The hike itself takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, suitable for travellers of moderate fitness, and the gradient steepens just enough in the final stretch to make the summit feel genuinely earned. As you reach the peak, the world opens up in every direction: to the east, the volcanic silhouettes of Flores; to the west, the jagged coastline of Komodo Island; and directly below, crescent-shaped bays glowing in shades of jade and turquoise as the sun breaks over the ridge.
But Gili Lawa is far more than a hiking destination. The surrounding waters are home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Coral Triangle. After your descent, Behike Cruise anchors in a sheltered bay where you can plunge into crystal-clear water teeming with reef sharks, giant trevallies, Napoleon wrasse, and kaleidoscopic walls of soft coral. The marine biodiversity here is staggering — National Geographic has rated this region among the top five dive and snorkel destinations on Earth. Whether you are a certified diver or a first-time snorkeller, the underwater world beneath Gili Lawa's surface is nothing short of extraordinary.
Aboard Behike Cruise, your Gili Lawa experience is elevated to a luxury standard. Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast on the open-air deck as the morning light bathes the ship in gold. Our expert local guides ensure your safety on every trail, while our onboard chef prepares gourmet Indonesian cuisine infused with flavours from the spice islands. Gili Lawa is more than a stop on your itinerary — it is the moment your Komodo voyage becomes a lifelong memory.