Komodo

Komodo National Park, between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores in Indonesia, is famous on land for its dragons and underwater for its current. Tidal water pours between the Indian Ocean and the Flores Sea through narrow channels, and that flow feeds some of the richest marine life in Southeast Asia: manta rays, reef sharks, turtles and dense schools of fish.

The same current makes Komodo one of the more demanding destinations on this list. Flow can be strong, down-currents occur, and conditions change quickly with the tide. We recommend Advanced Open Water and around 50 logged dives before tackling the strong-current sites. Good operators plan dives around the tide tables and choose sheltered sites when the flow is too strong.

Temperature varies more than visitors expect. Northern sites are usually 25 to 28°C. In the south, upwelling can bring water down to about 20°C, with sharp thermoclines, so a 5 mm suit is sensible there. July and August are usually the coolest months.

The dry season from April to November is the main dive season, with calmer seas and better visibility. December to March is wetter and some days are cancelled, but it is also the best time for manta rays, which gather in large numbers. Divers stay in Labuan Bajo on Flores and take day boats, or join a liveaboard to reach the remote northern and southern sites.