Foto: The colorful volcanic lakes (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Indonesia - The Kelimutu volcano, located on the island of Flores in eastern Indonesia, is famous for one of the country's most fascinating natural phenomena: three crater lakes, each with a different, ever-changing color. These so-called “Lakes of Kelimutu” lie side by side on the summit of the volcano and form a spectacular and mysterious natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors each year. What makes these lakes so unique is that each has its own color – ranging from turquoise blue to deep reddish-brown or even black – and that these colors change unpredictably and without any fixed pattern. The changes are caused by chemical reactions between volcanic gases, minerals in the water, and the interaction with oxygen and sunlight. Scientists suspect that microorganisms and temperature changes also play a role, but the exact mechanism remains a topic of research. Each of the three lakes has its own name and is surrounded by spiritual and mystical beliefs in local culture. The western lake is called Tiwu Ata Mbupu, meaning “Lake of the Souls of the Elderly.” The two eastern lakes, which lie next to each other, are named Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai (“Lake of the Souls of the Young”) and Tiwu Ata Polo (“Lake of Evil Spirits”). According to the traditional beliefs of the local Lio people, the souls of the deceased retreat to one of these lakes, depending on their age and way of life. A visit to Kelimutu usually begins early in the morning, as sunrise on the volcano’s summit is a magical moment. The soft morning light falling over the steaming lakes, combined with views of the mountain ranges and cloud layers, creates an unforgettable experience. The walk to the viewpoint is relatively easy and well-maintained, taking about 30 to 45 minutes from the parking area at the national park. In addition to admiring the lakes, the area around Kelimutu offers a glimpse into the traditional life of Flores. In nearby villages such as Moni, you can experience local culture, admire traditional houses, and enjoy authentic Indonesian hospitality. The lakes of Kelimutu are not only a geological wonder but also a spiritual and cultural experience. They are a perfect destination for travelers seeking mysticism, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure – a place where science and belief, nature and story, come together in an unforgettable palette of colors.
At Borobudur
Indonesia - Today I’m going to visit the Borobudur temple, one of the seven new wonders of the world. It seems like one of the highlights of this trip. I leave Yogya by bus. It’s rush hour. Countless motorbikes weave through the city. I quickly understand why—a ...
Dolphins at Lovina
Indonesia - At six o’clock I meet Robert again on the beach. The sun has not yet risen, but a glow already hangs over the sea. I help Robert and the skipper push the fishing boat into the water. I step in to go dolphin watching. Fellow travelers who went yesterday ...
Face to Face with Orang Utans
Indonesia - I’m getting ready for a long trek through Gunung Leuser National Park. This is one of the last places where orangutans still live in the wild. Until a few years ago, the orangutans were fed twice a day, but efforts are now being made to phase this out ...
Mountain biking around Ubud
Indonesia - In front of the hotel, I meet Eddy, who will guide today’s cycling trip from Mount Batur back to Ubud. First, we take a bus northward. Even far outside the city, I see woodcarving workshops and stores—I can’t imagine many buyers still come here. ...
Sulfur carriers on the Ijen volcano
Indonesia - At four in the morning, my alarm goes off. Today I will climb the Ijen volcano, an active volcano north of Ketapang. Jeeps are waiting in front of the hotel. I join a rather quiet driver. He drives out of Ketapang heading north, taking about two hours ...
Sunrise at the Bromo volcano
Indonesia - Knock knock. “It’s three o’clock, Sir!” I’m woken for the sunrise at Mount Bromo. I quickly dress—Karin warned me it would be crowded today, as it’s Sunday and many locals come up for the sunrise. In the dark, I see a stream of headlights ...
The impressive Komodo dragon
Indonesia - The Komodo Islands, located in eastern Indonesia between Sumbawa and Flores, are among Southeast Asia’s most fascinating and rugged natural areas. They are part of Komodo National Park, established in 1980 to protect the unique flora and fauna, especially ...
The island of Gili Air
Indonesia - Gili Air is one of the three Gili Islands located off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Together with Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno, it forms a tropical paradise in the Indonesian archipelago. Gili Air is the closest to Lombok and is known for ...
The Prambanan Temple near Yogyakarta
Indonesia - Today I leave Yogyakarta and head to the Hindu Prambanan temple, located 18 kilometers outside the city. This temple, from the same era as Borobudur, was severely damaged during the 2006 earthquake. The main temple, dedicated to Shiva, largely collapsed. ...
The Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls
Indonesia - The Rinjani Waterfall, often associated with the famous Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls, lies at the foot of majestic Mount Rinjani on Indonesia’s Lombok island. These are among the island’s most beautiful natural attractions, deeply connected ...
The traditional Bajawa villages on Flores
Indonesia - Deep in the mountainous interior of the Indonesian island of Flores lies Bajawa, a town known as the gateway to some of the most authentic and best-preserved traditional villages on the island. These villages, inhabited by the Ngada people, offer a rare ...
The view over Pulau Padar
Indonesia - The view over Pulau Padar – also known as Padar Island – is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and breathtaking panoramas in all of Indonesia. Located in Komodo National Park, between the larger islands of Komodo and Rinca, Padar is known for its ...
Washing elephants in Sumatra
Indonesia - My alarm wakes me just before seven. Today I’m going to wash elephants – an experience I’m really looking forward to. Suka greets me enthusiastically when I arrive at the restaurant. It’s about a half-hour walk to the elephant camp. The elephants ...