East Nusa Tenggara is an ideal place for adventure seekers. There are dozens of mountains and multiple hiking trails in East Nusa Tenggara that you can try. These trails have terrains that can pump your adrenaline. At the same time, there’s a lot of stunning scenery perfect for healing.
That’s why you need to know where to hike in East Nusa Tenggara. The lists are here, along with helpful information about the best time to visit and other essential tips. Here’s the list!
Top Hiking Trails in East Nusa Tenggara
At least 7 hiking trails in East Nusa Tenggara Indonesia are safe to explore!
1. Kelimutu Crater Lakes Hike
The first hiking trail is situated in Kelimutu Mountain, West Detusoko, Ende Regency. It’s called the Kelimutu Crater Lakes Hike. This is the most well-known trail, visited by so many tourists throughout the year. The reason is because of a stunning three-colored lake, Kelimutu Lake.
In this mountain, you can see three lakes in one complex. All of them have different colors, and the colors can change regularly. Researchers say this is due to fumaroles or volcanic vents that release steam and gases. However, the color changes are unpredictable, making this a unique phenomenon.
The hike is relatively short and easy as long as you are healthy, usually around 20-40 minutes. Make sure to hike early in the morning to watch the sunrise, because the Kelimutu sunrise feels epic and magical.
2. Mount Inerie Trek
If you want more challenges, try conquering Mount Inerie. This is the tallest mountain on Flores Island, at 2,245 meters above sea level. The terrain is quite challenging, with hard, steep rocky sands and a narrow crater. So, if you’re a newbie, bring a guide with you.
You can enter the hiking route from Watumeze, Tiworiwu Village, Jerebu’u District, Ngada Regency. Follow the trails to avoid getting lost. The hike lasts approximately four hours, and you can expect a stunning view. The ambiance feels like floating on clouds.
3. Wae Rebo Village Hike
There are also hiking trails in the Flores Mountains, East Nusa Tenggara, known as Wae Rebo Village Hike. Besides being suitable for people who like adventure, this path is also ideal for those who like cultures. This is because there’s a traditional village that exists on the mountain.
Wae Rebo is a village Some Manggarai Peoplein Satar Lenda, West Satar Mese, Manggarai Regency. Some Manggarai People live in traditional houses called Mbaru Niang. After hiking, you can try sleeping in one and learning to live like a local.
The terrain is not rugged and manageable if your physical condition is good. Stay a night in Wae Rebo to experience the Wae Rebo Milky Way. It’s a wonderful experience.
4. Mount Mutis Hike
If Mount Inerie is the tallest mountain on Flores Island, Mount Mutis is the tallest in East Nusa Tenggara. It’s situated in Timor Island, specifically in Nuaf Nefomasi, Nenas Village, Fatumnasi District, Timor Tengah Selatan Regency.
The terrain is challenging because you must walk through the plants to reach another steepness. So, hire a local guide from the Nenas Village for a better and smoother journey.
You can expect beautiful scenery, pretty plants, some cows, and some horses during the hike. However, the main attraction is the rare orchid and big red leaves bonsai.
5. Padar Island Trek
This trek is situated on Padar Island, Komodo, which is why this trek is popular among tourists. Padar Island hike to the summit is relatively easy, as you only need to climb stairs. However, you still need to make sure that your physical condition is good before going on the hike.
You can visit early in the morning to catch the sunrise or near dusk to catch the sunset. At the summit, you can expect astonishing views of the turquoise ocean.
6. Savu Sea Coastal Trek
Savu Sea Coastal Trek is a hidden gem compared to other hiking trails. It’s a small island between Sumba and Timor Island. The view from above is bewitching because you can see all around the sea. However, be careful of bats. There are many of them, especially in the evening.
The trek is quite difficult, so bring a guide. In addition to the ocean views, you can enjoy the green savannah, a nice place to rest and heal.
7. Mount Sirung Trek
Last but not least, make sure to try the Mount Sirung trek. To be precise, it is situated on Pantar Island in Mauta, Pantar Tengah, Alor Regency. The hike is difficult, but it’s worth it because you can see an astonishing panorama of active mountain craters.
Best Time to Hike in East Nusa Tenggara
The best time to hike is during the dry season. It usually occurs from April to November in Indonesia. There will usually be frequent rain during the rainy season, from December to March. It can make the trails slippery and dangerous. There’s also too much fog that can disturb your visibility.
Essential Tips for Hiking in East Nusa Tenggara
To make sure you have an unforgettable trip, don’t forget to follow these essential tips!
- If this is your first time hiking in East Nusa Tenggara, hire a local guide, especially for the challenging trails of Mount Sirung, Mount Mutis, and Mount Inerie.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, don’t forget to bring a thick jacket.
- Bringing a camera is essential, especially if you want to capture all the moments.
- Don’t forget to bring your medication and first aid kit with you.
- Bring security equipment such as flashlights, folding knives, matches, whistles, maps, etc.
- Pack your mineral water and snacks, as food and drinks are usually unavailable along the hike’s route.
So, which hiking trails in East Nusa Tenggara become your favorite? You can try one or more trails during your trip to Indonesia. You can adjust it according to your preferences because all trails have their own charm and uniqueness.
