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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.
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