Satonda Island

The Magical Charm of Satonda Island: A Volcanic Gem in the Heart of Dompu

Satonda Island is more than just a speck of land in the middle of the Flores Sea. This destination, located in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, is a captivating geological anomaly that also holds ancient mysteries. Administratively within the Pekat District, this island was formed from the eruption of an ancient volcano that emerged from the seabed thousands of years ago. Its main uniqueness lies in the giant crater in the center of the island filled with saltwater, creating a contrasting landscape of green hills, calm lake waters, and the surrounding blue sea.

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Unique Geology: The Ancient Saltwater Lake

The main attraction of Satonda Island is Satonda Lake, which occupies the ancient volcanic caldera in the center of the island. This lake has a much higher salinity than the surrounding seawater. This phenomenon began with the eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815, which triggered a massive tsunami. The high waves overflowed the crater walls and filled the caldera basin. Trapped and without an outlet to the sea, the water underwent evaporation for hundreds of years, increasing its salt and mineral concentration.

Scientifically, Satonda Lake is often referred to as a "Natural Laboratory" because its water conditions resemble those of the sea during the Archean era (around 3 billion years ago). Here, visitors can see microbialites or "ancient coral reefs" formed by algae and bacteria, a rare phenomenon seldom found elsewhere in the world.

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Biodiversity and Ecosystem

Satonda Island is part of Komodo National Park and is managed as a Nature Tourism Park (TWA). Its ecosystem consists of coastal forests and lowland tropical rainforests, which are home to various wildlife. One of the iconic inhabitants of this island is a large colony of Kalong (fruit bats). As dusk falls, thousands of kalongs will fly out from the dense trees towards the mainland Sumbawa to forage, creating a dramatic silhouette against the twilight sky.

Beneath the water's surface, Satonda offers an extraordinary wealth of coral reefs. The waters around the island are part of the Coral Triangle. You can find various types of hard and soft corals, as well as colorful reef fish such as anemonefish, parrotfish, and green turtles that are often seen foraging in the seagrass beds around the coast.

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Tourist Activities and Outdoor Experiences

For adventure lovers, Satonda Island offers a complete combination of land and water activities:

1. Snorkeling and Diving: The water clarity around the pier and the west coast of Satonda is exceptional. The relatively calm currents make it a safe location for beginners. The coral reefs here are very healthy because they are protected from commercial fishing activities.

2. Trekking to the Viewpoint: There is a light hiking trail to the top of the hill bordering the crater rim. From this viewpoint, visitors can see a 360-degree panorama showcasing the beauty of Satonda Lake on one side and the majesty of Mount Tambora across the sea.

3. Swimming in the Lake: Although the water is very salty, visitors are allowed to swim in the lake. The sensation of floating in this mineral-rich water provides a unique relaxing experience.

4. The Wishing Tree: On the edge of the lake, there is a unique tradition where visitors hang stones on tree branches while making a wish. If the wish comes true, they are said to have to return to the island to release the stone.

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Best Time to Visit

The most ideal time to visit Satonda Island is during the dry season, between April and October. During this period, the sky tends to be clear, the seawater is very clear, and the waves are calm, making the crossing easier. If you visit in August or September, you might witness the annual cultural festival often associated with the commemoration of the Mount Tambora eruption. Avoid the rainy season (January-March) as sea waves in the Flores Sea tend to be high and the hiking trails on the island can become very slippery.

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Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a Nature Tourism Park, Satonda Island is under the supervision of the West Nusa Tenggara Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA). This status ensures that facility development on the island is strictly limited to preserve the ecosystem's authenticity. Visitors are strictly prohibited from taking anything from the island, whether it be shells, stones, or damaging coral reefs. Turtle conservation programs and regular marine debris clean-ups are key agendas for the management to maintain Satonda's status as a sustainable ecotourism destination.

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Accessibility and Facilities

Reaching Satonda Island requires extra effort that is commensurate with its beauty. From Dompu City, you must travel by land to Labuan Kenanga or Nangamiro Village on the north coast at the foot of Mount Tambora. From there, the journey continues by renting a motorboat (speedboat or fishing boat) with a travel time of about 30 to 60 minutes.

Facilities on Satonda Island are relatively simple but adequate for basic needs. There is a sturdy wooden pier, several gazebos for resting, well-maintained walking paths, and public toilets. For those who wish to stay overnight, there are several eco-friendly cottage or lodging options managed on a limited basis. However, many tourists choose to stay on the mainland Sumbawa or take a liveaboard trip as part of a sailing route to Labuan Bajo.

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Conclusion

Satonda Island is a tangible testament to the natural wonders of Dompu. It is not just a recreational spot, but a geological monument that tells the story of nature's powerful past. With its mysterious saltwater lake, stunning underwater world, and tranquil forest atmosphere, Satonda offers a perfect escape for those seeking serenity amidst the pristine nature of West Nusa Tenggara. Preserving the island's sustainability is the responsibility of every visitor so that future generations can continue to enjoy this "ancient lake" that has fallen into the embrace of the sea.