Kelimutu Crater Lakes: Visit Indonesia’s Colorful Volcanic Lakes

It’s no surprise that a trio of colorful crater lakes at the summit of Kelimutu Volcano in Indonesia are steeped in myth. Locals claim that the Tiwu Ata Mbupu, Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai, and Tiwu Ata Polo serve as the resting place for the spirits of deceased elders, young people, and evil spirits. The Lake of the Elders is often vibrant blue, the Lake of the Young People is generally peridot green, and the Bewitched Lake is commonly a rusty red.

The Kelimutu Crater Lakes change color periodically for reasons that scientists do not entirely understand. The Bewitched Lake sometimes appears pink, black, or brown, the Lake of the Young People looks emerald green or aquamarine, and the Lake of the Elders appears sapphire, royal blue, or even milky white. Researchers speculate that the reason the Kelimutu Crater Lakes change color is due to chemical reactions triggered by gases seeping into the water from the Kelimutu Volcano’s core.

The Kelimutu Crater Lakes are located on the eastern end of Flores Island, near the town of Ende. To visit the lakes, travelers can easily book a flight to Ende from Bali or other Indonesian hotspots such as Labuan Bajo. The Kelimutu Crater Lakes can be accessed via a short low-impact hike that takes about 30 minutes.

The Kelimutu Crater Lakes Ecolodge is situated on the edge of a verdant rainforest. Every room features a sweeping view of Mount Kelimutu. The Ecolodge is home to a lush garden that grows fruits, vegetables, and rice that are served to guests. Each room features a cozy bed with a mosquito net for maximum comfort.

The Ecolodge hosts sunrise tours of the Kelimutu Crater Lakes. Visitors depart at 4:30 a.m. to watch the sunrise over the colorful lakes. Travelers can hike around the water, but swimming in the Kelimutu Crater Lakes is prohibited because the technicolor water is far too acidic. The call of the Bare-Throated Whistler—a bird which can mimic up to 18 different bird calls—adds an additional layer of magic to a truly mystical scene.

The Kelimutu Crater Lakes never appear the same twice, thanks to a mysterious chemical reaction that scientists haven’t quite pinpointed. The otherworldly beauty of the Kelimutu Crater Lakes is sure to stir your soul. No trip to Indonesia is complete without a trek to view three of the world’s most vibrant lakes.