Lejja Hot Springs

Volcanic Landscape and Geological Wonders

Lejja Hot Springs is not an ordinary swimming pool. Geographically, these hot springs originate from ancient volcanic activity beneath the mountains surrounding Bulue Village. This natural phenomenon produces abundant water flow with temperatures ranging from 40 to 60 degrees Celsius.

What distinguishes Lejja from other hot springs in Sulawesi is its very high sulfur content (reaching 1.5%). The distinctive sulfur aroma will greet visitors as they approach the pool area, indicating the purity of the minerals contained within. The water is clear, carrying minerals from the earth's core believed to have therapeutic properties for healing various skin diseases, itching, and rheumatism.

Marioriawa Protected Forest Ecosystem

Situated at an altitude, Lejja is surrounded by dense tropical forest vegetation. Giant trees, decades old, tower high, providing a cooling natural canopy. The presence of these large trees functions as a regulator of water flow and a guardian of environmental temperature stability.

Often, visitors can hear the chirping of endemic Sulawesi birds echoing from behind the dense foliage. If lucky, sightings of local fauna such as the Sulawesi black macaque (Macaca maura) are sometimes seen on tree branches far from human crowds. The high humidity around the springs also supports the growth of various types of mosses and ferns, giving an emerald green hue to the entire area.

Outdoor Experience and Activities

The experience at Lejja is designed to blend with nature. There are five main pools with different characteristics:

1. Main Pool (High Temperature): This pool is closest to the spring source. Its temperature is quite extreme and is usually only used for soaking feet or simply feeling the hot steam rising from cracks in the rocks.

2. Adult and Children's Pools: These pools have their temperatures regulated to be comfortable for long soaks. The water is constantly flowing (running water), ensuring cleanliness and oxygen levels in the water are maintained.

3. Private Pools: For visitors seeking more privacy, smaller, more secluded pools are available.

Besides soaking, a favorite tourist activity is walking along the wooden deck that cuts through the forest area towards the central spring source. Here, visitors can directly see hot water boiling out from between the roots of large trees—a sight that shows how powerful the earth's energy is beneath our feet.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Variations

Lejja has different attractions depending on the time of visit. The best time to visit is very early in the morning (06:00 - 08:00 WITA) or in the evening. In the morning, the contrast between the cold mountain air and the rising hot steam creates a mystical atmosphere that is very photogenic.

During the rainy season, the hot water flow usually increases, and fog often descends, enveloping the forest area, giving the sensation of bathing above the clouds. However, for those who want to enjoy the clarity of the water to the fullest without being disturbed by rain, the months of June to September are ideal. It should be noted that this area becomes very crowded on weekends and national holidays as it is a favorite destination for the people of South Sulawesi.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

As part of the Marioriawa Protected Forest, environmental preservation at Lejja is a top priority. The local government and local management implement strict rules to avoid damaging the vegetation around the water sources. The roots of large trees that support the springs are allowed to grow naturally without concrete obstruction.

Conservation efforts also include managing sulfurous wastewater to prevent pollution of the downstream river ecosystem. Tourists are strictly prohibited from using soaps or shampoos with harsh chemicals while in the main pools to maintain the purity of the water's minerals and prevent damage to the surrounding soil microorganisms.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Lejja Hot Springs is located about 30 kilometers from the center of Watansoppeng City, or about a 4-5 hour drive from Makassar. The journey to the location offers charming views of terraced rice fields and hills. Although the road is winding, the road infrastructure leading to Lejja is quite good and accessible by two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.

The facilities within the area are quite complete to support tourist comfort, including:

• Villas and Lodging: Wooden cottages integrated with nature are available for visitors who wish to stay.
• Gazebos (Baruga): Many are available on the edge of the pools for family resting.
• Local Canteens: Serving delicious Soppeng specialties perfect after a hot spring soak.
• Public Facilities: Changing rooms, restrooms, and ample parking.

Lejja Hot Springs is more than just a tourist destination; it is a symphony of nature where the elements of fire (geothermal), water, and earth (forest) meet harmoniously. A visit here promises physical refreshment and peace of mind that is hard to find amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. For nature lovers seeking an authentic experience in South Sulawesi, Lejja is a must-visit destination offering eternal warmth from the heart of Soppeng's earth.