When people think of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Labuan Bajo and Komodo Island often come to mind as the ultimate travel destinations. Yet, nestled within this region lies another gem that is rapidly gaining popularity—the Thousand Waterfalls Tourism Village, also known as Wae Lolos.
This picturesque village has seen a remarkable increase in visitors over the years. In 2014 alone, the thousand waterfalls village welcomed 11,015 tourists, drawn to its captivating natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Robert Perkasa, Chairperson of the Cunca Pias Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis), explained the reasons behind Wae Lolos’ growing appeal.
“The most obvious factor is the stunning natural scenery. Wae Lolos boasts spectacular landscapes, from majestic waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers to lush tropical forests,” Robert said in Wae Lolos on Monday (January 6, 2025), as reported by Travel Kompas.
Beyond its natural wonders, Wae Lolos is a cultural haven. The vibrant traditions and crafts of the local community have become a magnet for visitors. “We have cultural dances like caci, guest-welcoming traditions such as kepok, and performances like sanda, caci, and gait Gola,” he shared. For adventure seekers, the village also offers outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and exploring the pristine surroundings.
Located less than an hour’s drive from Labuan Bajo and near the renowned Komodo National Park, Wae Lolos is easily accessible. “The roads leading here are in excellent condition,” Robert added, emphasizing the village’s strategic location.
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One of the unique aspects of Wae Lolos is the opportunity for tourists to engage directly with the local community, providing an authentic and enriching travel experience. To further enhance this, efforts are being made to improve infrastructure and amenities.
“Pokdarwis and the local community are continually working to upgrade facilities,” Robert said. These improvements include safe trekking paths, parking areas, and scenic photo spots such as the Sky Pool and Cunca Plias Waterfall.
As Wae Lolos continues to evolve, its blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure promises to leave an unforgettable impression on every visitor who ventures to this rising destination.