INDONESIAN TWIN PEAKS
In the southeastern corner of Flores Island, Indonesia, the Lewotobi volcano duo beckons intrepid trekkers looking for something far off the beaten path. The twin stratovolcanoes, Lewotobi Perempuan (the “Female”) standing at 1,703 meters, and Lewotobi Lakilaki (the “Male”) at 1,584 meters, offer not just elevation but a rich blend of geology, culture, and raw natural power. Their names themselves, “Lewotobi,” with Lewo meaning village and Tobi tamarind, reflect a close connection between the land, local communities, and the flora that shapes their identity.
Though beautiful, these peaks come with a fiery temper. Since 1675, Lewotobi has been recorded erupting 22 times, the most recent major eruption occurring in 2003. Today, both peaks are carefully monitored by local volcanologists. While Perempuan is gentler, Lakilaki tends to cause more geological stirrings, earning it a more volatile reputation. Despite this, trekking remains possible, so long as trekkers heed safety advisories.
The journey begins in Desa Bawalatang at the Vulcanology Centre, sitting at about 344 meters above sea level. Travelers first reach Boru village via the Trans‑Flores road, then take a short drive to the Centre. From there, treks diverge depending on the peak one chooses. The trail is not always well defined; hikers should expect rugged terrain, forest cover, and moments of scrambling. Passages through plantations, forests, and occasional lava flows make the ascent both scenic and challenging.
For those considering the female peak, the route provides a somewhat gentler ascent: eucalyptus groves, forested paths, and fewer sections of scree. The male peak is steeper, with loose volcanic rock and steeper slopes, demanding more stamina and surefootedness. A single summit attempt over one peak generally takes 8‑10 hours round‑trip, whereas conquering both peaks involves a two‑day expedition.
Safety is paramount. Lewotobi is active, and its status can change quickly. All trekkers are strongly advised to check in at the Vulcanology Centre before departure, to monitor activity levels, and to trek only with experienced local guides. Equipment like satellite phones is used, and group sizes are kept small. Weather, volcanic warning systems, and route conditions can all affect the ability to summit safely.
Beyond the ascent, the reward is vivid, not just in the views from the peaks, where you can see across the Flores Strait to Solor Island on a clear day, but also in the feeling of having explored one of Indonesia’s less visited natural wonders. The trek through remote villages, the glimpses of local life, and the knowledge that your journey supports sustainable and community‑led tourism make the Lewotobi adventure much more than a climb. It’s an experience of culture, nature, and elements combined.