Do you want to see the miracle of nature? Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes is no doubt a miracle of nature. It is one of the most magical experiences in Indonesia. If you are visiting Indonesia, we would recommend you not to miss the opportunity to see this wonder. It is one of the great outdoor places on the island of Flores. While spending lazy days and party nights in Bali, take a day out to visit this amazing place. Here are all the details you need to know about Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes.
How to get there?
The Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes are on the island of Flores near a small town called Moni. There are a few options to get to this place. If you are in Bali, you can take a flight to Maumere or Ende.
Maumere is a great place to stay and is the largest town in Flores. It will take four hours to reach Moni from Maumere if you have spent a night in Maumere. It takes 45 minutes to reach the Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes from Moni.
You can also fly into Ende. Ende city is just forty minutes away from the airport, while the nearest village is around three hours away. You can hike or walk to Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes from the nearest village, in about two and a half hours. The island of Flores is so beautiful, that where ever you go or stay, you will not regret going to this beautiful island. Whatever city or route you take to go the Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes, it is worth it.
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What is the Best Time to Go There?
Indonesia basically has two weather, dry and wet. We suggest you visit the place in the dry weather. June, July, August, and September are the best months to visit this place. But this time is the peak season for the tourists thus you need to make your bookings in advance. To enjoy the amazing experience, you will have to wake up early to watch the sunrise at the place.
Hike Kelimutu
Be sure to stay nearby, if you are hiking to Kelimutu. The closest point is Moni but there are several guesthouses available too. Maumere has a variety of options to stay but it is four hours away from Kelimutu. Ende also has some good places but it will take you three hours to reach the Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes.
If you want to enjoy this experience to the fullest you should reach here by 4.30 am to see the sunrise. It might sound crazy but it is worth it. To go on top to see the clear view of the lakes you will need to walk for 30 minutes. Don’t worry it is an easy walk!
It is better if you have breakfast. There are some people selling some snacks around the way but we suggest you to take a good meal before going to keep your energy level high. Follow the signs when you walk up and be sure to reach all the way to the top despite the path winds.
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Fun Story
The Kelimutu Volcanic Lakes has a fascinating local story. Locals believe that on these three lakes, spirits of their ancestors live on. They believe that the color change is due to the changing mood of their ancestor’s spirit. The westernmost lake is also known as Lake of Old People (Tiwu Ata Mbupu), and it is believed that people who live a good life, their spirits will go to this lake. The color of this lake is normally blue.
The other two lakes are situated right next to each other. The Lake of Young Men and Maidens (Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai) is of emerald color. The bad spirits go to the Enchanted Lake (Tiwu Ata Polo) which is usually blood red.
Though the story is fun there is no evidence to its support. The changing color of the lakes is due to the chemical reaction of the volcanic gases. Whatever is the case, we assure you would love this place!