Kelimutu Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural beauty of Kelimutu with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best things to do, places to stay, and travel tips for a memorable trip to Indonesia.


Introduction to Kelimutu

Located in Flores, Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, Kelimutu is famous for its vibrant volcanic crater lakes. The three lakes are known for their ever-changing colors, which range from bright turquoise to deep red. The names of the three lakes are Tiwu Ata Mbupu (Lake of Old People), Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai (Lake of Young Men and Maidens), and Tiwu Ata Polo (Bewitched Lake).

Apart from its natural beauty, Kelimutu is also home to several cultural and historical attractions. The island is a mix of various ethnic groups, including the Bajawa, the Ngada, and the Ende. As a result, Kelimutu has a rich culture and heritage that tourists can explore. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, places to visit, and travel tips for Kelimutu.

List of Places to Visit in Kelimutu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bena Traditional Village: This village is famous for its traditional houses, which are made of wood and bamboo. The village is home to the Ngada people, who are known for their unique culture and customs. Tourists can witness the Ngada’s traditional way of life, including their weaving, wood carving, and dance performances.
  • Saga Traditional Village: The Saga village is known for its traditional houses, which are made of stones. Tourists can witness the villagers’ daily life, including their weaving, agriculture, and handicrafts.
  • Ende Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Ende area. It has several exhibits on the traditional culture, as well as a collection of historic artifacts from the island.

Natural Attractions of Kelimutu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kelimutu National Park: The national park is home to the three crater lakes, which are the main attraction of the island. Apart from the lakes, the park is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including birds, monkeys, and rare orchids.
  • Detusoko Rice Terraces: The Detusoko rice terraces are located on the slopes of Mount Kelimutu, and they offer a stunning view of the island’s landscape. Tourists can hike to the terraces and witness the traditional agricultural practices of the locals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kelimutu

  • Mount Kelimutu: The climb to the summit of Mount Kelimutu is a challenging but rewarding experience. The trek takes around four hours, but tourists can witness the stunning sunrise from the top. The trail passes through lush forests and offers a spectacular view of the island.
  • Detusoko Rice Terraces: The trek to the rice terraces is a moderate hike that takes around two hours. The trail passes through small villages and offers a stunning view of the valley.

Best Things to Do in Kelimutu: Activities and Tours

  • Sunrise Tour: Witness the sunrise over Kelimutu’s crater lakes. The tour starts early in the morning and includes a trek to the top of Mount Kelimutu, where tourists can witness the sunrise.
  • Cultural Tour: Explore the traditional villages of Bena and Saga and learn about the local culture and customs.
  • Snorkeling Tour: Take a tour to the nearby beaches and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Flores Sea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kelimutu

Day Activities
1 Arrival in Maumere, drive to Moni village
2 Sunrise tour of Kelimutu, visit Bena village
3 Trek to Detusoko rice terraces, visit Saga village
4 Snorkeling tour to nearby beaches, visit Ende museum
5 Free day in Moni village
6 Drive to Maumere, visit nearby attractions
7 Departure from Maumere

Food and Drink Scene of Kelimutu

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ikan Bakar: Grilled fish served with spicy sambal (chili paste).
  • Nasi Goreng: Fried rice with vegetables, chicken, and shrimp.
  • Gado-Gado: Mixed vegetables served with peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Brem: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice.
  • Tuak: A sweet alcoholic beverage made from palm sap.
  • Kopi Flores: A locally grown coffee with a unique flavor.

Where to Stay in Kelimutu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kelimutu Ecolodge: A rustic ecolodge located in Moni village. The lodge offers traditional-style bungalows with modern amenities.
  • Bintang Lodge: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in Moni village. The lodge offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Kelimutu Crater Lakes Eco Lodge: An eco-friendly lodge located near the entrance of Kelimutu National Park. The lodge offers unique accommodations in bungalows made of natural materials.

What to Buy in Kelimutu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ikat Textiles: Handwoven textiles with traditional patterns and designs.
  • Wood Carvings: Carvings of traditional motifs, animals, and other decorative items.
  • Coffee: Locally grown coffee with a unique flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Kelimutu

  • Dress Code: Tourists should dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting traditional villages and religious sites.
  • Respect for Elders: The locals have a deep respect for older people, and tourists should show the same respect.
  • Gift Giving: It’s common to offer small gifts to locals, especially when visiting traditional villages.

Best Time to Visit Kelimutu

The best time to visit Kelimutu is from May to September when the weather is dry and sunny. The rainy season starts in October and lasts until April, which can make trekking and outdoor activities difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kelimutu

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress modestly.
  • Learn a few words of the local language.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect the locals or their customs.
  • Swim in the crater lakes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kelimutu

  • Tourists should avoid carrying valuables and should be aware of their surroundings in crowded areas.
  • Trekking and hiking tours should only be conducted with licensed guides and appropriate equipment.

Health in Kelimutu

  • Tourists should drink bottled water and avoid street food.
  • It’s recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid before traveling to Kelimutu.

Getting to Kelimutu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kelimutu

  • Frans Sales Lega Airport in Maumere is the nearest airport to Kelimutu.

Bus Stations Near Kelimutu

  • The closest bus station is located in Ende, which is around 80 km from Kelimutu.

Other Options

  • Taxis and private cars can be hired from Maumere or Ende to reach Kelimutu.

How to Get Around in Kelimutu

  • Motorcycles and bicycles can be rented from local vendors for exploring the island.
  • Taxis and private cars can also be hired for transportation.

Where to Go Next from Kelimutu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Riung: A small town known for its beautiful beaches and marine park.
  • Mount Inerie: A volcanic mountain located in Bajawa.
  • Komodo Island: The home of the famous Komodo dragon, located a short flight away.

Conclusion

Kelimutu offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any tourist. By following this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to Kelimutu and experience the best of what the island has to offer.

Kelimutu sunrise Kelimutu sunrise