Kelimutu Lakes Flores Indonesia
Witness the mystical, color-changing crater lakes of Kelimutu on Flores Island, a natural wonder steeped in local legend and geological marvel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness magical colors & fewer crowds
Kelimutu Lakes Flores Indonesia
Best Time
Witness magical colors & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the mystical, color-changing crater lakes of Kelimutu on Flores Island, a natural wonder steeped in local legend and geological marvel.
"The picture of Rp.5.000 published on 1992. I came here in February, the air is not so cold and sunny in the morning."
🎯 Aim for Sunrise Magic
Hike up before dawn for an unforgettable sunrise and to see the lakes' colors in the best light. :sunriseovermountains:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings can be chilly at this altitude, so bring a jacket. :cold_face:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Color-Changing Lakes
Kelimutu National Park
Witness the surreal spectacle of three distinct crater lakes, each boasting unique and ever-shifting colors.
Sunrise Over the Crater Lakes
Kelimutu National Park summit
Experience a breathtaking sunrise painting the sky and illuminating the mystical, colorful waters below.
Local Lio Tribe Culture
Surrounding villages
Learn about the spiritual significance of the lakes to the indigenous Lio people and their ancient beliefs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Kelimutu's Colors
Getting to Flores & Kelimutu
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Aim for Sunrise Magic
Hike up before dawn for an unforgettable sunrise and to see the lakes' colors in the best light. :sunriseovermountains:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings can be chilly at this altitude, so bring a jacket. :cold_face:
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your best camera! The lakes' vibrant, changing hues are a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll need to walk to the viewpoints, so wear sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Aim for Sunrise Magic
Hike up before dawn for an unforgettable sunrise and to see the lakes' colors in the best light. :sunriseovermountains:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings can be chilly at this altitude, so bring a jacket. :cold_face:
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your best camera! The lakes' vibrant, changing hues are a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll need to walk to the viewpoints, so wear sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Foreigner Entrance Fee
Be aware that the entrance fee for foreigners is significantly higher than for locals. :moneywithwings:
☕ Try Local Coffee
Enjoy a cup of delicious and affordable Flores coffee near the park. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kelimutu Lakes are widely praised for their stunning, otherworldly beauty and the unique spectacle of three color-changing crater lakes. Visitors rave about the magical sunrise experience and the fresh mountain air. However, some find the foreigner entrance fee quite high, and weather conditions can significantly impact visibility.
"The place was stunning. You have to hike at 4 or 5 am to witness one of the best sunrise. You also can see 3 lakes at the top with 3 different color."
Hari Hajaruddin Siregar
"This is a very famous lake in Indonesia, the picture of Rp.5.000 published on 1992. I came here in February, the air is not so cold and sunny in the morning. People say when the weather is bad, the fog will drop untill you can't see the lake at all. If you came here be sure that u come in the good weather. Start walking in the early hours of the day so that you arrive at the peak at sunrise, the scenery is very cool. And the air extremely fresh in the morning. There's toilet available and very clean. You can see monkeys along the street."
Tri Marlina
"Kelimutu was amazing Place in Flores !!! It takes 3 hours to this beautiful place from Maumere - Sikka, or 1.5 hours from Ende.
Come to this place in weekdays, to avoid from many tourist who will come and enjoy this beautiful place. Bring your best camera to capture three colored lake !"
aziz putra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Ende, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive to Kelimutu National Park. You can hire a car or motorbike taxi. The road is scenic but winding.
Yes, it takes approximately 3 hours to reach Kelimutu from Maumere. Many travelers opt to stay in Moni village as a base for visiting the lakes.
Hiring a private car with a driver is a popular and comfortable option for exploring Flores and reaching Kelimutu.
You can fly into Ende (ENE) or Maumere (MOF) on Flores Island, both of which serve as gateways to Kelimutu.
Public transport can be challenging and time-consuming. Hiring private transport or joining a tour is generally recommended for convenience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park is typically open 24 hours, but visiting for sunrise (around 4-5 AM) is highly recommended for the best experience.
The entrance fee for foreigners is significantly higher than for Indonesian citizens. Expect to pay around IDR 225,000 for foreigners.
Currently, tickets are usually purchased on-site at the park entrance. It's advisable to have cash ready.
Information on specific discounts can vary. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival.
The entrance fee grants access to the national park and the viewpoints overlooking the Kelimutu crater lakes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll need about 1-2 hours to explore the viewpoints and take photos. Factor in travel time to and from the park.
Yes, there's a walk from the parking area to the main viewpoints. The paths are generally well-maintained but can be steep in places.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as mornings can be cool. A light jacket is recommended.
Heavy fog or rain can obscure the view of the lakes. Visiting during the dry season and early morning increases your chances of clear visibility.
Yes, there are toilets available at the park, and they are generally reported to be clean.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise is magical for capturing the lakes with soft light. Mid-morning can also offer good light before the sun gets too harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for sunrise shots.
The colors shift due to volcanic gases and mineral content, influenced by rainfall and geological activity. They can range from turquoise to green, red, and black.
The main viewpoints offer panoramic views of all three lakes. Explore slightly different angles for unique shots.
Drone usage regulations can change. It's best to check with park authorities upon arrival to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is on the lakes, the journey through Flores offers glimpses of local life and landscapes that can be educational. Pack snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The sheer wonder of the color-changing lakes is often enough to captivate children's imaginations.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different times of day to capture the subtle shifts in color. The surrounding volcanic landscape also offers interesting photographic subjects. Be mindful of the weather; fog can add a dramatic, moody element, but clear skies are best for vibrant colors.
🚶♀️ Adventure & Hiking Lovers
The journey to Flores itself is an adventure, with its rugged landscapes and unique culture. Combine your visit to Kelimutu with other explorations on the island, such as visiting traditional villages or exploring the coastline, for a comprehensive adventure trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Colors of Kelimutu
+1Each lake has a traditional name reflecting these beliefs: Tiwu Ata Bupu (Lake of Old People), Tiwu Ko'o Fai Nuwa Muri (Lake of Young Men and Maidens), and Tiwu Ata Polo (Lake of Enchanted Spirits). The shifting colors are seen as omens or messages from the ancestors, adding a layer of profound cultural significance to the natural wonder.
+1While scientific explanations involve chemical reactions and mineral composition, the mystique surrounding Kelimutu's colors continues to captivate visitors, making it a truly unique destination.
Planning Your Kelimutu Adventure
It's highly recommended to visit Kelimutu for sunrise. This means an early start, often around 4 or 5 AM, to reach the summit in time to witness the dawn break over the crater. The cool morning air and the ethereal light create a magical atmosphere. Be prepared for potentially foggy conditions, especially during certain times of the year, which can obscure the views.
When it comes to practicalities, be aware of the entrance fees, which are higher for foreign tourists. Bringing cash is advisable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as there's a walk from the parking area to the viewpoints. Dressing in layers is also a good idea, as temperatures can be cool at the high altitude.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit