 |
| looks like a profile of a bird |
A quick trip you can do that's near the town is Batu Cermin and Waicicu Beach.
From the town center of Labuan Bajo, both are only about 20 minutes away. If you're coming from the airport, then about 10-15 minutes on the motorbike.
If you prefer to walk, it's also doable. Best done in early morning so it won't be too hot.
FYI:
Batu (Bah-too) in English means Rock and Cermin (Cher-min) is Mirror, so in direct translation, the cave is called Mirror Rock. This is due to the mirror-like illusion produced by the sun's rays passing through a hole in the cave's wall. The pristine ray hits the salt crystals on the cave's walls then produces a water or mirror like reflection.
FEES:
The fee for foreign visitors is Rp 10,000 / person ($1.00) and Rp 5,000 ($0.50) for local visitors. One is expected to tip the guide as well, normally about Rp 30 - 50,000 ($3-5.00).
You will be provided a hard hat for your safety. You may bring a torch/flashlight if you want.
The cave is small but has impressive rock formations. Stalactites and Stalagmites and the usual rock illusions can be expected. The total trip for simply going in the cave is about 45 minutes to an 1 hour. Unless you decide to challenge yourself and climb to the top of the cave then that would be an additional 30-40 minutes depending on how agile you are and how fast you can climb.
Note of warning:
The climb is loads fun but quite a challenge as it's pretty much like wall/rock climbing, using outlaying roots, branches, rocks, vines, and small rickety ladders. Advisable for those that climb, hike, or are generally fit.
Better wear shoes too.
This official website has more information and directions on how to get there:
Flores Tourism: Batu Cermin
Here are some photos of the cave:
 |
| a huge wasps nest. yikes! |
 |
| huge spider |
 |
| bats |
 |
| the guide will tell you that this looks like Mother Mary |
If you do the climb, here are the beautiful views and what you'll see from the top:
 |
| the airport |
 |
| labuan bajo town |
 |
| eep! don't look down! |
After getting some rigorous exercise from the climb, we were so hot and sweaty that we needed some ocean time so we decided to hit a nearby beach to have a swim and freshen up.
WAICICU BEACH
About 15 minutes from the cave towards (follow the road signs), this bay of a beach is a fantastic little hideout if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town. It's located West of the town center and covered by the big hill island, so it is protected from the currents and boats travelling to the various islands for their tours.
Since it's more like a bay and the water is usually calm, One can also do some undisturbed swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking. The more high-end hotels are located on this beach strip also offering various activities.
We hung out at one of the hotels and swam until sundown.
FYI:
The road to Waicicu is still being paved so be careful driving on the dirt road.
 |
| Waicicu beach view from the top |
 |
| quiet and calm bay |
That is an extremely smart written article. I will be sure to bookmark it and return to learn extra of your useful information. Thank you for the post. I will certainly return.
ReplyDeleteIt was very useful for me. Keep sharing such ideas in the future as well. This was actually what I was looking for, and I am glad to came here! Thanks for sharing the such information with us.
ReplyDeleteGreat step by step explanation of this process. I'll have to add to my favorites.
ReplyDelete