NATIONAL PARK CONSERVATION

Kelimutu National Park

"Discover the mystical beauty of Kelimutu National Park, home to the enchanting tri-colored crater lakes, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage–an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Flores!"
Located in Ende Regency, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
  • 5,356.5 Ha
  • Kite bird, Drongos, Bare-throated Whistler, Leaf Lorikeet, Bunomys naso, Hainaldu2019s rat, Redcedar, Burflower tree, Black Ebony, Horsetail She-oak, Begonia kelimutuensis, Purple Cantigi

The Traces of Kelimutu Ancient

The appeal of the beauty of Lake Kelimutu is inseparable from the three-colored lake whose hues can vary and also the formation of myths that have been believed by the local community. The mineral makeup of the lakes causes the hue shift in the three lakes. Tiwu Ata Polo (red lake), Tiwu Nua Muri Koo Fai (blue lake), and Tiwu Ata Mbupu (green lake) are the names of the three lakes (white lake) Tiwu Ata Polo is a location for spirits who have left the earth, as well as persons who committed crimes during their lives. Tiwu Nua Muri Koo Fai Lake is a resting place for the spirits of young people who have passed.

Beautiful mineral lakes have fascinating histories and stories to tell.

Visitors have taken the morning walk since locals led early Dutch settlers here. The majority of visitors catch a sight of the lakes at sunrise, leaving the adjacent town of Moni about 4 am for views after the pre-dawn mist has lifted and before clouds begin to creep in. At the summit of Mt. Kelimutu, the afternoons are often quiet and deserted, and the colors shine when the sun is high in the sky.

A stairway leads up to the highest viewpoint, Inspiration Point, from where all three lakes may be seen. It's not wise to climb about the craters' loose scree. The footing's so terrible and the drop so steep, a few irresponsible hikers have perished here.

It's advised staying in Moni rather than tackling Kelimutu as a day excursion, should inclement weather spoil the view or block the route to the summit. The answer is yes.

Unique Features

  • The park's three crater lakes–Tiwu Ata Bupu (Lake of Old People), Tiwu Ko'o Fai Nuwa Muri (Lake of Young Men and Maidens), and Tiwu Ata Polo (Bewitched Lake)–change colors due to mineral and volcanic activity, creating a surreal and ever-changing landscape.
  • The lakes are deeply spiritual to the Lio people, who believe they are the final resting place of departed souls, adding a mystical aura to the park.
  • The sunrise view from the summit of Mount Kelimutu (1,639 meters) is one of Indonesia's most breathtaking sights, with vibrant crater lakes glowing in the morning light.
  • Despite its small size, the park hosts Wallacean biodiversity, including Flores giant rats, Javan deer, and endemic birds like the Flores monarch and Kelimutu white-eye.
  • Visitors can experience the unique traditions of the Lio people, visit Wologai Traditional Village, and witness their ancient rituals, weaving arts, and local folklore.

Things To Do

A visit to Kelimutu National Park is an unforgettable journey into nature, mystery, and culture. The main highlight is the hike to the summit of Mount Kelimutu, where visitors can witness the breathtaking tri-colored crater lakes, especially during sunrise, when the colors are most vibrant. Nature lovers can explore the park's lush forests, home to unique flora and fauna, while cultural enthusiasts can visit nearby Lio villages, where they can learn about traditional weaving, folklore, and sacred beliefs surrounding the crater lakes. For photography lovers, the panoramic volcanic landscapes and ever-changing lake colors provide the perfect setting for capturing one of Indonesia's most unique natural wonders. Whether for adventure, spiritual reflection, or cultural immersion, Kelimutu National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the stunning island of Flores.
  • Location & How To Get There

    • July - August
    •  
      1. Jakarta - Denpasar - Ende: 5 hours by plane
      2. Denpasar - Ende: 1 hour 40 minutes by plane
      3. Kupang - Ende: 50 minutes by plane
      4. Ende - Moni: 1 hour 30 minutes driving

      Gerbang National Park: 20 Minutes by driving

      Andau Kelimutu: 30 minutes on foot

      1. Maumere - Moni: 2 hours 10 minutes driving
  • Contact Park

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    • Mar 27, 2025 at 01:50 pm
      Dahulu sering mendengar keindahan danau ini hanya dari buku pelajaran sekolah atau dari informasi kepariwisataan secara online mengenai Danau Kelimutu. Namun menyaksikannya secara nyata menjadikan perjalanan ini PRICELESS.
    • Mar 27, 2025 at 02:55 pm
      Wonderful Indonesia

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