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Krakatau erupted in
1883, one of the most catastrophic natural
events in recorded history. The volcano
literally blew itself apart, sending a column of
ash and stone 80 km, into the air. Ash fell on
Singapore, and the entire region was covered in
darkness for two days. The volcanic dust in the
atmosphere circled the earth for three years,
creating sensational sunsets. At that very
instant, Krakatau vanished as if devoured by the
sea, causing formidable tidal waves which in
turn swept off just about everything alive from
the surrounding coastal areas. However, the
disappereance of the gigantic Krakatau also
meant the birth of small islands in its place,
one of which is called Anak Krakatau or
Krakatau's Child which is at present an
extremely active young volcano. From both West
Java's West Coast and from Sumatra's Lampung
Province, this young and very active volcano is
clearly visible. It is possible for boats to
land on the Eastern Shore of this young volcano,
and depending on recent activity, you can climb
to the rim of the caldera. A boattrip to Anak
Krakatau is worth the adventure.
PLACES TO EAT
Bring along lunch
and refreshments, as it is hot and there is no
fresh water available on the island - all other
supplies for the trip should be brought with
you.
WHERE TO STAY
There is no where
to stay on Anak Krakatau but there are a variety
of places to stay on the mainland, Carita
Krakatau Beach, Anyer Beach, Mambruk, Merak
Beach are some of the major hotels along the
coastal area that are recommended.
GETTING AROUND
To Krakatau. Boats may be chartered to the
four uninhabited islands of the anak Krakatau
from Labuan port. Arrangements can also be made
through the hotels: Carita Krakatau Beach, Anyer
Beach, Mambruk, Merak Beach and some other major
hotels along the coastal area. As the trip takes
four to five hours each way, the weather is hot
and there is no fresh water out there. Boats may
be chartered to the four uninhabited islands of
the Krakatau group from Labuan (Anyer - West
Java). The cost depends on the chartered boats,
from small fishing craft up to a motorized
fiberglass launch that can carry up to 10
people. Arrangement can be made through any
hotels or at the port. Most visitors land at the
eastern side of Anak Krakatau, climb up to the
top of the first ridge for a view into the
smoking crater and across to the other three
islands. The trip is not recommended during the
rainy season, (November to March) when the seas
are rough.
ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS
Most visitors
land at the eastern side of Anak Krakatau, climb
up to the top of the first ridge for a view into
the smoking crater and across to the other three
islands. This is a good place for walking and
taking photographs. |
