Krakatau blew itself up in 1883, earning itself a global reputation after being dormant for over 200 years. The explosion sent over 20 cubic kilometers of rock into the atmosphere and caused an 80km high column of ash along with a tsunami (40m high) that washed over 165 villages on Java and Sumatra killing over 36,000 people.  Still today gigantic pieces of pumice rock and shipping buoys sit high above the waterline as evidence of the force of the wave.

 

The son of Krakatau (Anak Krakatau) now lies 50km off the west coast of Java in Sunda Strait (SelatSunda). The islands that make up the volcano are full of vegetation and animals’, while beneath the water beautiful coral reefs abound with thousands of fish species.

 

 

 

 

 

Today, constant rumblings ensure that the risks of another explosion are real but not a deterrent to have a closer look. A 90min speedboat ride has you reaching the island shoreline covered in thick vegetation.  It’s then a tough climb up a barren landscape covered with fine ash to reach the top of a ravine to observe the grumbling monster.

 

 

 

 

Lunch on a beach of the youngest sand in the world is surprisingly relaxing as you watch the continuing display of explosions. This, combined with snorkeling over colourful coral teeming with fish and hermit crabs compliments this unique experience.

Krakatau will live on to be evidence of the constantly evolving planet we live upon, and a reminder of the short amount of time we have to appreciate it.

 

 

 

Additional Information and Tips

– the drive from Jakarta around 3 hours to Carita (leave early morning is best)
– the boat trip takes around 2 hours – the ride over was great, early morning, seas flat, the ride back was rough after the wind picked up in the afternoon. Life jackets are on the boat but if you want to ensure a good fit for the kids i’d suggest to take your own
– you can stay overnight camping on the beach – ask Eddie and he’ll provide all the info on that
– the walk up the volcano isn’t too difficult. Our son Jack walked the first part (through the flat vegetation area) then we carried him on our shoulders the final bit up the rocky slope
– the ‘Lunar Landscape’ at the top is amazing, and the warm rocks is interesting to explain to the children
– snorkelling gear and lunch is provided by Eddie – basic food, plenty of drinks and food for everyone
– take your own sunblock, towels, bathers, walking shoes (thongs are not enough to get to the top), hats etc.
– and always take home any rubbish!!

 

As with any trip away, it’s always good to have an esky in your car packed with cold drinks and emergency snacks for the trip back to Jakarta … we all know how the traffic here can spoil a good day out!

 

A good tour guide with his own boat is Eddie Rohaedy. He’s a great guy – very professional, excellent English, he’s a National Parks ranger.  He runs tours either from Sambolo or Carita. Please contact him if you’re ever thinking of a day tour or an overnight trip.

 

Eddie Rohaedy
www.go-krakatau.com
Email: eddie@go-krakatau.com
Hp: 0813 1091 5175

Words & Photos_/_Susan Etherington.