Many people will agree that watching the Kelimutu sunrise is magical, especially if you catch it in the right place and time. It is one of the activities you must do at least once in a lifetime, and your presence is integral to the experience. From the stunning views to the enchanting ambiance, everything is perfect.
That’s why you need to learn everything about sunrise in Kelimutu Mount Lake, starting from the best time to visit, how to get there, and any other essential tips. You can find all that information here, so read until the end to know how to see this moment in a perfect time!
The Magical Moment of Kelimutu Sunrise
Sunrise is a fleeting moment that can disappear in a matter of minutes. Researchers say this is a “wow factor” of the moment. People also don’t hesitate to pay more fees to visit a natural setting at sunrise than under blue skies. The reason is that the moment feels more special.
People also visit Kelimutu Lake at dawn to catch the sunrise. This moment feels even more special because the sunrise is not the only thing you can witness. You can also savor how magical it is when the golden sun rays reflect on the three-colored lakes.
This combination of Kalimutu’s three-colored lakes and golden sun rays is difficult to find anywhere else, thus increasing the wow factor. You can also enjoy the stunning panorama around the mountain. It will definitely boost your mood and make you feel perfect for healing.
Aside from the views, the ambiance will also be unforgettable. It feels calm and magical, especially considering the lake is sacred to the local community.
Best Time to Visit
You must know the best time to see the Kelimutu sunrise to catch the moment.
1. Ideal Time to Arrive
The exact time of sunrise in Kelimutu Mount varies each time. However, it is usually between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. WITA. So, arrive at the summit around 4:30—5:00 a.m.
2. Best Months to Visit
The dry season is the best, around April to October. The skies are clearer, and the probability of rain is rarer. So you can have the best experience without any major problems or distractions and get the best view.
However, thick fog can obstruct the view of the sunrise. So, make sure to check the weather forecast before you decide to hike.
How to Get There
The nearest international airport you can reach is I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali. So, you must take a domestic flight from Bali to Ende or Maumere.
1. From Ende to Moni
After arriving at Ende, you can continue your journey to Moni Village. The easiest way to get to the village is by renting a motorcycle or car. You need around 2-3 hours until you arrive at Moni.
Aside from Ende, you can take a flight to Maumere. There are more flight schedules to Maumere; however, the distance to Moni Village is farther. You must rent a car or motorcycle for around 3-4 hours to get there.
2. From Moni to Kelimutu Summit
The distance from Moni Village to the entrance gate of Kelimutu is 45-60 minutes. You can walk or ride a vehicle there. So, start your journey at the village at 3 a.m. That’s the only way to reach the entrance gate before 4 a.m.
For your Kelimutu Mount hiking experience, the route to the entrance gate is a comfortable 30-45 minutes. The trail is relatively easy to hike, so you can relax. But it’s crucial to hire a guide to ensure your journey is as effective and safe as possible.
Essential Tips for Catching the Perfect View
To make your experience more enjoyable, here are some tips for you!
1. Dress for the Weather
The average annual temperature in Kelimutu is 24,4°C (75,92°F). However, you will go to the summit before dawn, so the temperature will be lower than that. Usually, in the morning, the temperature can reach 10-15°C (50-59°F). So, make sure to dress warmly. Make sure to bring a jacket, gloves, and a hat.
2. Bring a Headlamp or Flashlight
The hike starts before dawn, so additional lighting will be essential. Without it, you nearly can’t see anything. So, make sure to pack a headlamp or flashlight before you come.
3. Don’t Forget Your Camera
Capturing this magical moment with a camera is something that you should do. So, don’t forget to bring your camera before hiking. If you have a tripod, make sure to bring it, so the results are more stable. You should take it from different angles to make sure you have the best picture.
4. Stay Overnight in Moni
You should get to the summit before dawn. It would be impossible if you didn’t stay overnight in Moni. That’s why you can stay at some homestay or guest house on Moni Island for a smoother journey.
You can rent accommodations in Ende Regency, some near Kelimutu National Park. So, you have so many options according to your budget and needs.
5. Hire a Local Guide
To make sure you enjoy the best experience, make sure to hire a local guide. They can help you hike to the summit and will give you cultural insights and local folklore believed by the local community.
What to Expect During the Sunrise Experience
There are many things that you can expect from watching the sunrise in Kelimutu Lake, such as:
- The quiet and spiritual atmosphere in the morning.
- Soothing sounds of nature.
- Witnessing the lake slowly change color as the sun rises.
- Meet other tourists from different countries who share their enthusiasm for natural beauty and make friends with them.
Additional Activities After Sunrise
After watching the sunrise in Kelimutu, you should not just come home without doing anything else. This is because there are still many interesting activities that you can do, such as:
- Explore the Kelimutu National Park, you can take a stroll along the trekking trails and enjoy the stunning nature.
- Meet unique floras and faunas you can only find on Flores Island at the Kelimutu National Park.
- Visit local villages, like Wologai or Moni, and learn about their cultures and traditions. Your guide can help you interact with the locals and communicate with them.
- Enjoying the hot springs in Moni, which are perfect for relaxing after hiking.
FAQs
If you’re still confused, here are some frequently asked questions for you!
You should leave Moni Village at 3 AM. and arrive at the entrance before 4 AM. so you can reach the summit before 5 AM.
No, it is relatively light hiking. If you follow your guide, you won’t face any major problems.
Jacket, gloves, a hat, headlight or flashlight, camera, tripod, mineral water, and snacks.
Yes, you must pay IDR 150.000 (USD 9,63) on weekdays and IDR 225.000 (USD 14,44). Bring cash because they don’t accept debit or credit cards.
Yes, but remember to check the weather forecast before you come. Ensure there won’t be any rain or thick fog, as they will interfere with visibility.
So, are you ready to see the Kelimutu sunrise? For your own safety, follow all the guides above. Remember to bring cash to buy anything necessary, as the locals rarely accept debit or credit cards. You should also book a hotel and rent a vehicle beforehand to avoid scams.
