Weekuri Lake

The Uniqueness of a Saltwater Lagoon's Geology and Ecosystem

Technically, Weekuri Lake is a lagoon formed by seawater seeping through cracks in coral rocks. This lake is separated from the Indian Ocean by a cluster of high and sturdy coral cliffs. Its location behind the cliffs keeps the water in the lake calm, even though the waves in the open sea behind it are very fierce.

One of the most prominent natural features is the clarity of its water. Because its bottom is composed of white sand and limestone rocks, the water in Weekuri Lake appears turquoise to emerald green, depending on the depth and the position of the sun. Another unique phenomenon is the presence of several freshwater springs at the bottom of the lake, creating a sensation of varying water temperatures—sometimes warm and sometimes cold—and forming a thin, interesting halocline layer to observe.

Natural Landscape and Topographical Structure

Weekuri Lake is oval-shaped, approximately 150 meters long and 50 meters wide. The depth of this lake is greatly influenced by the tidal cycles of the sea. During high tide, its depth can reach 3 to 5 meters, but during low tide, the edges of the lake become shallow, revealing the soft white sand texture.

The surroundings of the lake are dominated by typical coastal vegetation growing on rocky soil. Lush trees and green bushes provide a beautiful color contrast to the blue water. The coral cliffs that separate the lake from the open sea serve as a natural fortress and also as a path for visitors who want to view the scenery from a height. From the top of these cliffs, visitors can witness the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean breaking against the coral walls, creating a dramatic contrast with the tranquility of the water within the lagoon.

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Weekuri Lake is more than just a picturesque view for photos; this place offers a complete sensory experience.

1. Swimming and Floating: Due to its relatively high salt content, the water in this lake has greater buoyancy than ordinary freshwater. Visitors can swim leisurely or simply float, enjoying the tranquility without worrying about being carried away by sea currents.

2. Cliff Exploration: The management has built wooden bridges that surround most of the lake. This path allows visitors to walk to the top of the coral cliffs to enjoy a 360-degree panorama encompassing the entire lagoon area and Sumba's wild coastline.

3. Spring Water Therapy: Finding the freshwater spring points at the bottom of the lake provides a unique refreshing sensation, as if being in a natural spa designed by nature.

4. Landscape Photography: With the contrasting water colors against black coral and green trees, Weekuri is a photographer's paradise. The best time to take pictures is when the sun is directly overhead, where the light penetrates to the bottom of the lake and brings out the brightest blue hues.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Variations

To get the best experience, visitors are advised to come during the dry season, between May and October. During this period, Sumba's skies tend to be clear and cloudless, providing maximum illumination on the lake's water.

The most ideal visiting time is between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. During these hours, the reflection of sunlight makes the lake's water color appear clearest and bluest. If you visit too late in the afternoon, the water might start to recede, and the iconic blue color will fade slightly due to the cliff's shadow. However, the late afternoon offers a calmer atmosphere and cooler air temperatures.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a destination that is still relatively natural, conservation efforts at Weekuri Lake are continuously being improved. The coral ecosystem around the lake is very vulnerable to physical damage. Tourists are strictly prohibited from discarding trash into the lake or in the coral crevices.

The local government and indigenous communities play an important role in maintaining the sanctity and cleanliness of this area. The use of soap or shampooing in the lake is strictly forbidden to maintain the purity of the water's chemical composition and protect the microorganisms living within it. Awareness of "sustainable tourism" is highly emphasized so that Weekuri's beauty can be enjoyed by future generations.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

The journey to Weekuri Lake is an adventure in itself. Located about 60 kilometers from Tambolaka, the capital of Southwest Sumba, the land journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Although the roads are mostly paved, some sections may still be narrow and winding, passing through teak forests and exotic traditional Sumba villages.

Facilities at the location are now much better compared to a few years ago. Available:

• Wooden Bridge: Facilitates access around the lake without damaging vegetation.
• Parking Area: Sufficiently large for two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.
• Local Kiosks: Local residents sell young coconuts, snacks, and traditional Sumba woven fabrics as souvenirs.
• Changing Facilities: Simple toilets and changing rooms are available near the entrance.

Given its somewhat remote location, visitors are advised to rent a vehicle from Tambolaka as public transportation to this location is still very limited.

Weekuri Lake is a tangible testament to the natural wonders of Eastern Indonesia. The combination of rare geological phenomena, extraordinary water clarity, and the strong Sumba cultural background makes this place a must-visit destination for nature lovers seeking tranquility amidst untouched natural purity.