Three lakes
Three colours.
Rosino — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Bagus Pinandoyo Basuki — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Michael Day — CC BY 2.0
One of the world's most extraordinary natural sights, three neighbouring volcanic lakes at the summit of Mount Kelimutu in central Flores, each a different colour: turquoise, green and brown or black, their colours changing over the years with volcanic minerals and gases. The local Lio people believe the lakes are the resting places of the souls of the dead, according to their age and deeds. Visitors drive up from Moni village before dawn to a car park near the summit, then walk about half an hour on steps and a path to the upper viewpoint, to watch the sunrise over the mountains as the lakes reveal themselves in the light. Locals sell coffee and hot tea at the top. The national park fee for foreigners is higher than locals', and higher on holidays. It is very cold before sunrise, and mist can sometimes cover the lakes until mid-morning. Stay a night in Moni to catch the sunrise, and bring a jacket. If mist hides the view, wait a while; it usually clears about an hour after sunrise.
Three colours.
Over the years.
Resting place of souls.
Kelimutu National Park, near Moni, about two hours east of Ende
Fly to Ende or Maumere, drive to Moni village in about two hours, stay there and go up before dawn.