Rinca, the Whole package Island

Komodo, savannah, jungle, beach and a really nice viewpoint. Those are the things I'd highlight from my visit to Rinca (click for location). It was located near the famous Komodo island, but don't take it wrong. I saw a lot more Komodos here in Rinca than in Komodo island itself (I'll explain it later! ;) ).

On the arrival, you will be offered by three island trekking packages; short, medium, and long trek. I chose the medium 4 kilo meters trek at that time. From there, you will start the trek and be guided by a Komodo ranger.

Here we go!

According to the ranger, there are only 4 islands that are inhabited by Komodo Dragons. 80% of the populations are in Komodo and Rinca island, that's why those 2 islands are the most visited destinations for those who want to see Komodos.

You can also spot a more Komodos in Rinca than in Komodo Island. Why? It's all caused by the terrain. In Rinca, the terrain is 80% savannah and 20% jungle. The mighty dragon can't stand the hot weather of Savannah in the afternoon, that's why they migrate to the jungle in the afternoon! As the jungle got crowded, you can spot them easily during the trek!

Other than seeing the Komodos, you will be guided into the best viewpoint in Rinca Island, named Waicicu Hill. The picture explains the beauty..

Wishing you a nice adventure!

Cheers!,

Roselind

Satonda Island, the Hidden Gem You Should Visit!

Have you ever swam in a salt water lake that was formed ancient years ago? Satonda island is a unique inhabited island in the West Sumbawa with a lot history to tell.

Here we begin. In 1800s, Tambora Volcano was on its active years. The eruption of Mount Tambora rocked several parts of the world, spreading dust and polluting the Earth's atmosphere for many years. Its effects also resulted in climate change and darkness in Europe and Asia.
In relation with the effects of the eruption of Tambora, the presence of a salt water lake in the Satonda crater is the unique and interesting effect. This ancient lake was formed from the Satonda eruption thousands of years ago. The lake that was formed was once filled with fresh water. It is said that the eruption of Mount Tambora resulted in a tsunami which filled the crater and turned it into the salt water lake until today.

Swimming in the lake is a must! Spreading 900 meters wide, this lake water has a higher salinity level than the sea water which will make you float easily. Caused by the high salinity level too, only few small fishes are able to live. It is said too that the high level of alkaline is also the reason of it.

crystal clear water

After the swim, you can walk for only 50 meters to the nearest coastline to snorkel or sunbathe. The beach is pretty, however snorkeling in the island is not really recommended. The underwater view is not too great and I got a few jellyfish stings when I was swimming back to the coastline.

How to get there? (click for Satonda Island location)

• Take a local boat from Sumbawa Besar (click for maps)
• By live aboard from company like Kencana or Perama

Have a nice adventure! :)

Cheers!,

Roselind

The Magnificent Kelor Island

Just 30 minutes away from Labuan Bajo, Flores- lies a beautiful island named Kelor. Complimented with one beautiful hill and pristine beach, this island might be the next thing in your bucket list. Here you can relax, hike, snorkel, or you can climb a tree to enjoy the view!

Hike! The view from the top. courtesy: info-backpacker.com

Snorkel: underwater Kelor

Beautiful landscape! captured from another treetop

How to get here?

• By fastboat from Labuan Bajo
• By live aboard from company: see Kencana or Perama

Cheers!,

Roselind