You can see many interesting things in Wae Rebo Village, a remote traditional village in the Flores Mountains, East Nusa Tenggara. Aside from their unique traditional houses, cultures, and traditions, you also need to witness the magic of the Wae Rebo Milky Way.
However, many people are still confused about how to see the Milky Way in Wae Rebo Village. So, here is a complete guide about that! You can find information about the reason why Wae Rebo became a perfect place to see the Milky Way, when to visit, and any other essential tips.
Get to Know the Milky Way
Many people believe that stargazing is healthy. It has a “wow factor,” which activates awe, inspiration, and curiosity. This activity also calms your nervous system because the “love” hormone oxytocin has been released and manages to replace it.[1] So yeah, the majority of people love stargazing.
However, did you know you can see the Milky Way Galaxy while stargazing in some places? One of those places is Wae Rebo Village.
The Beauty of the Milky Way
The Milky Way Galaxy is a big spiral system in space containing hundreds of billions of stars, planets, interstellar dust, gas clouds, and other space objects. Although it is not the only galaxy in space—there are billions to trillions of others—it is the closest to Earth.
Astronomers believe the Earth lies within the Milky Way’s spiral arms, about halfway from the center. The galaxy looks like a milky band of light arcing across the entire sky from the Earth.[2] This is why it became an object much sought after by astronomers and photographers.
Astronomical Significance of Wae Rebo
You can witness the galaxy’s beauty in multiple places, including Indonesia. So, if you are curious about where to see the Milky Way in Indonesia, one is in Wae Rebo Village.
Even though you can savor its beauty in multiple places, the panorama of the Milky Way in Wae Rebo is more stunning and magical. The factor that affects it is its location, considering that Wae Rebo is located in a remote area in the Flores Mountains.
The night sky in the Flores Mountains is darker, without interference from city lights or artificial lights. That’s what makes the village ideal for seeing the galaxy more clearly.
When to See It in Wae Rebo?
It exists, and you can see it throughout the year. However, to experience the best scenery, you can visit during the best time to see the Milky Way in Wae Rebo!
Ideal Months for Stargazing
From April to October, because it’s the dry season in Wae Rebo. So, you can savor the moment without interruption from the rain or bad weather. The trek to the village will also be easier.
Believe it or not, you can even catch a glimpse of the galaxy during the rainy season, typically from November to March. It’s a rare treat, as some nights are blessed with clear skies and no rain, allowing you to bask in the beauty of the stars without any interruptions. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast before heading out to avoid any unexpected showers.
Best Time of Day
You can see the galaxy at night, usually from 12 a.m. to 3 a.m. The sky looks dark during these hours, so the stars will look brighter. Avoid bringing artificial lights when stargazing, as they can cause light pollution and ruin the scenery.
Best Spots for Viewing the Milky Way in Wae Rebo
To make sure you witness the best moment, make sure to follow these instructions!
Best Spot for Stargazing
First, you should stay for a night in Mbaru Niang or stay at a homestay near Wae Rebo. Then, in the middle of the night, walk away from the residential areas. Some open areas in the village are perfect for stargazing because they are far away from artificial light.
Looking for the most perfect stargazing spot in Wae Rebo? You can join or hire a local guide, considering they know more about it. Aside from that, they also have a lot of knowledge about the sky and stars.
How to Set Up for Stargazing
Do some setups before stargazing to experience the best moment:
- First of all, don’t forget to bring a mat.
- You can lie or sit on the mat while stargazing.
- Just bring a flashlight with a low light or turn off the flashlight to enjoy a more stunning view.
Tips for Capturing the Milky Way with Your Camera
Remember to bring your own camera to capture the best view of the Milky Way in Wae Rebo, Indonesia. Here are some tips for perfect photography!
1. Best Camera Settings for Milky Way Photography
Recommended camera settings to capture the light of the galaxy more clearly:
- ISO: High
- Shutter speed: Slow
- Aperture: Wide.
2. Other Photography Tips for Stargazing
Other tips for creating the perfect photography are:
- Using a tripod, so that the photo results are more stable, not shaky, and not blurry.
- Invite the local community to take photos with the Milky Way together, so it feels more authentic and special.
Essential Gear for Stargazing at Wae Rebo
Before leaving to stargaze the Milky Way in Wae Rebo Flores, make sure you bring the following:
- The right camera’s type and lens: Choose a camera with good low-light capability and a wide lens to take better photos.
- Warm Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes because Wae Rebo weather is cold, especially at night.
- Tent or Mat: To enjoy the night sky comfortably.
- Trekking Gear: How to get to Wae Rebo Village? The only way is to trek, so hiking shoes, mineral water, light but warm clothing, and bedding are essentials.
- Photography Equipment: Tripod, spare battery, and extra memory card.
FAQs
There are some frequently asked questions to ensure you know what to do and bring before stargazing!
1. What Is the Best Month to See the Milky Way in Wae Rebo?
You can see them throughout the year. However, the best time is during the dry season to avoid thick clouds and rain.
2. Do I Need a Guide to See the Milky Way in Wae Rebo?
It is not necessary but recommended, especially if you visit the village for the first time. A local guide will make the trip smoother.
3. Can I See the Milky Way with the Naked Eye?
Yes.
4. Is there A Fee for Stargaze in Wae Rebo?
No. However, you need to pay IDR 10.000-IDR 20.000 (USD 0,62-USD 1,23) for the welcome ceremony during your arrival to the village.
So, are you ready to witness the magic of the Wae Rebo Milky Way? Make sure to follow all the tips above to enjoy the best experience! You can also contact a local guide in advance to make your trip more enjoyable.
