MOUNT KELIMUTU VOLCANO IN FLORES

Mount Kelimutu, sitting at a height of 1,639m, is one of the most extraordinary volcanoes in Indonesia. The three volcanic lakes periodically change colour due to fluctuation in oxidation-reduction rates. Depending on when you visit, you can expect the lakes to be different shades of green, blue or even red!

Home to over 120 active volcanoes, it is no surprise that Indonesia is considered one of the most hazardous countries in the world. Eruptions, earthquakes and evacuations are not uncommon for those living in the danger zones, yet volcanos still play an important factor in the countries tourism. These prodigious events of mother nature attract thousands of thrill-seeking travellers every year. And the breathtaking views & alluring mystery that lie behind each one, make it easy to see why.

A Guide to Mount Kelimutu Volcano

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The Tri-Colour Lakes of Mount Kelimutu Volcano

When we visited Kelimutu, the lakes were of striking emerald green and turquoise blue. Having never been at the summit of a volcano before, it was unlike anything we’d ever seen. It was impossible not to be in awe of its beauty.

For a moment it was easy to forget what was potentially bubbling away below us. But only until the overwhelming presence of sulphur snapped us back to reality.

With our head literally in the clouds, the spectacular views of rugged green landscapes stretched all the way out into the horizon. We even had the pleasure of some unexpected company, who never fail to entertain…

Kelimutu is one of the highlights from our travels in Indonesia, so we highly recommend adding it to your Flores Itinerary. To help out with anything you might need to know, we’ve put together an easy to follow the guide below:

How to get to Mount Kelimutu Volcano

The closest village to Mount Kelimutu is MONI. Surrounded by rice paddies & astounding views, Moni is a small mountain village full of charm and character. We recommend spending 1 or 2 nights here.

From Moni village, there are a few options you can take to reach the summit:

Shared Taxi

Upon arriving into Moni, you are sure to be approached by local guys offering you a taxi. It is, however, wiser to organise through your guesthouse or the local tourist office. You shouldn’t pay any more than, 70,000/pax for 1 way, or 100,000/pax for return, based on 4 people in a car.

Motorbike Taxi

Enquire in Mopi’s bar if you wish to take a motorbike taxi. Cost should be no more than 100,000/pax.
* It is around a 25-minute drive to the car park of Kelimutu, followed by a 20-minute easy climb to the summit.
*Some choose to walk the scenic route back to the village. It’s a relatively easy walk but takes around 2.5 – 3 hours

* It is around a 25-minute drive to the car park of Kelimutu, followed by a 20-minute easy climb to the summit.
*Some choose to walk the scenic route back to the village. It’s a relatively easy walk but takes around 2.5 – 3 hours

Rent a Scooter

If you are an experienced and confident driver, then you should have no problem driving yourself to Kelimutu. There are areas where the road isn’t completed, so you will need to take it easy. But overall,, it is a relatively easy drive.

To rent a scooter for the day is around 100,000 & are available in a number of places, including Mopi’s, Bintang & Mahoni.

Hiking

Not for the faint-hearted, however, you can choose to walk the route to Kelimutu. It’s a relatively tough, uphill climb and will take you around 3.5 – 4 hours

*Download Maps.Me for offline directions and be sure to take the shortcut through the waterfall opposite the Rainbow Cafe.

Cycle

Again, not for the faint-hearted, but there is the option to cycle to Kelimutu. You can enquire at the tourist office situated in Moni Village for more information. Price for bike rental is 75000 per day, the cycle route is estimated to take 3/4 hours.

MOUNT KELIMUTU VOLCANO MAP LOCATION

Where to Stay in Moni

Angi Lodge – New build bungalows with an amazing view, complete with on-suite western-style bathrooms. Perfect if you are on a budget.

Other reputable guest houses in the area include Bintang Lodge & Mahoni Guesthouse. For more places to stay in Moni, check the latest prices here.

When to Visit Mount Kelimutu Volcano

A popular time to visit Kelimutu is for Sunrise, however, unless you’re lucky, it can be extremely cloudy in the mornings. After waking up to clouds & rain in the morning we planned to go, we decided to postpone until the afternoon.

Thankfully the clouds parted ways, and we were able to enjoy the colours of the lakes under full sunlight. Whereas in the morning they are partially in shadow. For us it was better lighting for taking pictures; however, I have no doubt that on a clear morning, sunrise would be magical there.

Entrance Fees for Mount Kelimutu Volcano

Tourist Entrance Fee – 150,000 RP/pax
To Park a Car – 10,000 RP
To Park a Scooter – 5,000 RP

Photography Tips

To get the shots you can see on this blog, we did have to venture outside of the fenced guidelines. Although we do not recommend this. The fences are there for a reason, and areas outside of them are at risk of landslides. If you do decide to venture away from the safe area, be sure to walk well clear of the crater’s edge.

What to Bring to Mount Kelimutu Volcano

WARM CLOTHES! It gets cold at the summit, especially for sunrise. Unsure of what you might need to pack for your adventures in Flores? Don’t worry, we have got you covered. Check out our backpacker essentials, for a packing list of items that we carry with us on every adventure.

Here are some items that we recommend taking to make your visit to the hikes & waterfalls more comfortable:

Comfortable shoes for the hikes
Water shoes to wear in the water – We Recommend: 2 in 1 Water/Hiking Shoes.
Waterproof Bag to protect valuables – We Recommend: Waterproof Dry Bag-10L/20L/30L
Bathing suit & towel for the obvious – We Recommend: Microfiber Travel Towel

Well, that concludes our guide to Mount Kelimutu Volcano, be sure to check out our travel guide and itinerary for Flores. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

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