Manta Point is a long, shallow reef in the centre of the park where currents funnel plankton-rich water past a bank of coral rubble. Reef manta rays — some with wingspans over three metres — come here to feed and to visit cleaning stations. Boats drop snorkelers up-current and let them drift above the mantas, then pick them up further along.
Sightings are frequent throughout the year, though never guaranteed, and are often best from December to March. The same drift can bring green and hawksbill turtles, eagle rays and white-tip reef sharks. Just next door lies the sandbank of Taka Makassar.
Top things to do at Manta Point
Drift-snorkel with mantas
Float face-down and let the current carry you over the mantas. Your guide watches from the boat and follows your group.
Dive with mantas
Divers see the mantas at eye level at the cleaning stations. Book with a licensed dive operator.
Look for turtles and rays
Eagle rays, turtles and schools of fusiliers are common along the same drift.
Best tours that visit Manta Point
These top-rated trips from Labuan Bajo include Manta Point:
Speedboat day trip Komodo National Park Full-Day Speedboat Tour
One of the best-reviewed shared speedboat trips, with an English-speaking guide, lunch box, snacks and snorkel gear. A slightly shorter day that still covers the big four: Padar, dragons, Pink Beach and mantas.
- Padar summit hike
- Komodo dragons up close
- Swim with mantas at Manta Point
Best for: travellers who want great value and a top-rated crew
Private yacht (up to 6) Private Yacht: 6-Island Komodo Adventure + Mantas
Charter your own yacht for a full day: set the pace, skip the queues at the jetties and enjoy lunch, drinks and snorkel gear on board. Priced per boat, so it gets surprisingly good value for a small group.
- Your own yacht and guide
- Padar, Pink Beach, Komodo & Taka Makassar
- Manta Point & Siaba turtles
Best for: families, honeymooners and groups of friends
How to get to Manta Point
- Most shared day trips include a Manta Point stop — try the top-rated speedboat tour.
- Divers can join a full-day dive trip from Labuan Bajo.
- Private charters can wait for the best tide and current.
- Wear fins and a life vest if you are not a strong swimmer — the current can be strong.
- Never touch or chase the mantas; stay above and let them come to you.
- Keep your mask on and your eyes down — mantas can appear out of nowhere.
