Kelimutu Crater Lakes, Flores
The Three-Coloured Crater Lakes of Central Flores
Mount Kelimutu is a 1,639-metre volcano in central Flores, Indonesia, best known for its three summit crater lakes that periodically change colour. The name Kelimutu means “steaming mountain”, referring to the volcanic activity beneath the surface.
The lakes have shifted between turquoise, green, red and dark brown over the years. Scientifically, these changes are caused by varying mineral content and ongoing volcanic activity beneath the lakes. Locally, the colour changes are explained differently: the lakes are believed to be the resting places of ancestral souls, and their shifting colours reflect the spiritual state of those who inhabit them.
Kelimutu remains a sacred place for the Lio people and one of the most remarkable natural sites in Flores.
Location
About the Kelimutu Crater Lakes
The three lakes sit close together at the summit but differ in character and meaning.
- Tiwu Ata Mbupu (Lake of Ancestors’ Souls) lies to the west and is usually dark in colour.
- Tiwu Ko’o Fai Nuwa Muri (Lake of Young People’s Souls) is often turquoise or green.
- Tiwu Ata Polo (Lake of Evil Spirits) can appear red or brown.
The two eastern lakes are separated by a thin crater wall. Their distinct colours are linked to chemical reactions caused by volcanic gases and mineral content rising from beneath the surface.
The crater lakes form part of Kelimutu National Park, a protected area recognised internationally for its ecological importance. The surrounding forests are rich in birdlife and endemic plant species.
Visiting Kelimutu
The most popular time to visit is at sunrise, when the weather is usually clearer before clouds move in. Many travellers start early from Moni to reach the summit before dawn.
A paved road leads from Moni to a parking area near the top. From there, it is about a 30-minute walk through forest to the viewing platforms overlooking the lakes.
Best base: Moni
Best time of day: Early morning
Access: Paved road + short forest walk
Elevation: 1,639 m
Moni Village
Moni is a small village at the foot of Kelimutu and the main base for visiting the crater lakes. It is located along the Trans-Flores route between Ende and Maumere.
The area around Moni is fertile and scenic, with rice fields, forested hills and natural hot springs nearby. For those staying longer, the surroundings offer excellent walking opportunities.
The traditional market in Moni takes place on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, with Monday being the busiest day. Women from surrounding villages arrive wearing finely woven Lio ikat sarongs, creating a lively and colourful scene in the early morning hours.
How to Get There
- Ende to Moni: 51 km – approx. 1.5 hours
- Maumere to Moni: 62 km – approx. 4 hours
- Bajawa to Moni: 5 hours
Travel times vary depending on road conditions.
Tip: Hike from Kelimutu to Moni
Instead of returning by car, it is possible to hike from the crater lakes down to Moni. The trail passes through forest rich in birdlife and through two traditional villages, one of which can only be reached on foot.
The hike takes around 5–6 hours and is mostly downhill. Spending two nights in Moni allows time to explore the wider national park beyond the summit viewpoint.
Location
Kelimutu is located in central Flores, Indonesia, between Ende and Maumere.