Keli Mutubuurai

Keli Mutubuurai is a volcano on Flores Island in Indonesia that rises to 1,639 meters (5,377 feet) above sea level. At its summit sit three crater lakes whose waters appear in different shades, influenced by minerals and thermal processes below the surface.

The first recorded eruption took place in 1865 and lasted for five years. Further eruptions occurred in 1938 and 1968, with each of these events altering the composition and appearance of the crater lakes.

The mountain's name comes from the Lio language and refers to the place as the peak of young men and women. Residents from surrounding villages tell stories on site about how the different lake colors reflect the character of the deceased, a theme still mentioned during ceremonies.

Most visitors start their hike from the town of Moni, where you can find lodging and book guides for the climb. The path to the summit follows stairs and trails that can become slippery in rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

The water colors in the three lakes shift over time and can range from turquoise through dark green to reddish brown. These changes depend on chemical reactions below ground that are still not fully understood today.