If you’re planning a trip to Labuan Bajo, recent volcanic activity in East Flores may have caught your attention. In the early hours of Friday, April 25, 2025, Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki erupted with a powerful explosion, sending ash clouds high into the sky and prompting evacuation alerts in several villages. For travelers headed to Flores, especially the popular destination of Labuan Bajo, understanding the implications of this eruption is essential for a safe and smooth journey.
What Happened at Mount Lewotobi?
According to reports from Katantt.com, the eruption occurred just after midnight on Friday, with a loud explosion heard several kilometres away. Mount Lewotobi is located in East Flores Regency and is part of the volcanic chain that stretches across the island. Authorities have raised the alert level and established a safety radius of 3 kilometers from the crater.
More than 1,000 residents from surrounding villages were evacuated due to the risk of lava flow, ashfall, and toxic gas. The Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) continues to monitor the situation closely.
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Is It Safe to Travel to Labuan Bajo?
The good news is that Labuan Bajo, located on the western tip of Flores, is more than 300 kilometers away from Mount Lewotobi. This means the eruption does not directly threaten most Labuan Bajo-based activities, such as Komodo Island tours, diving trips, or visits to Padar and Pink Beach.
However, travelers should remain cautious and updated on travel advisories, especially if they plan to transit through or explore other parts of Flores beyond Labuan Bajo.
Possible Travel Disruptions
While Labuan Bajo is geographically distant from the eruption zone, here are a few potential indirect effects to consider:
1. Flight Delays or Cancellations
Volcanic ash can pose risks to aircraft, and flights connecting via Maumere or Ende (closer to the volcano) may be affected. Flights to and from Komodo International Airport (LBJ) remain operational. Still, travelers are advised to check with airlines for real-time updates.
2. Road Closures or Restricted Areas
Suppose your itinerary includes road trips across Flores or visits to natural attractions near East Flores. In that case, it’s wise to consult with local guides or tourism offices to confirm route safety and accessibility.
3. Health Considerations
Ashfall near the volcano can cause respiratory irritation, especially for individuals with asthma or other lung conditions. Though Labuan Bajo has not reported ash exposure, carrying a mask is a reasonable precaution if you plan to explore eastern regions.
Traveler Advisory: What You Should Do
To ensure your Labuan Bajo trip goes smoothly amid the ongoing volcanic activity:
- Stay informed by following updates from PVMBG, BNPB (Indonesia’s Disaster Management Agency), and local news outlets.
- Contact your airline or travel provider ahead of your journey for any itinerary changes.
- Avoid high-risk zones near Mount Lewotobi and follow local evacuation guidance if you’re already nearby.
- Consider travel insurance that includes coverage for natural disasters, especially if your plans involve exploring Flores Island more extensively.
While the Mount Lewotobi eruption has understandably raised concerns, it currently has minimal impact on Labuan Bajo tourism. Most trips to Komodo and nearby islands remain safe and unaffected. However, staying informed, flexible, and safety-conscious is key to enjoying your journey without disruption.
Planning a Labuan Bajo trip during this time is still possible—be prepared, stay connected, and prioritize your safety while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Flores.
