Karangetang - How I Climbed One of Sulawesi's Most Active Volcanoes (and Why It's Better to Go with a Local Guide)
Carangetang volcano is a real monument on the tiny island of Siau in North Sulawesi. Indonesia.
It dominates the island: wherever you look, its two smoking craters always come into view. Sometimes, if you are lucky, you can see molten lava gushing out of them at night and stone bombs flying – this happens quite often here.
I climbed the Karangetang in 2021, and in this article I will share my experience, give practical advice and honestly warn about the risks if you decide to repeat my path.
Safety is paramount
Karangetang is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Seismic activity is monitored by Indonesian authorities, and local guides are usually well informed about the current state of the volcano, but the risk remains that the eruption could start suddenly. Theoretically, it is possible to climb to the very top, but most people confine themselves to part of the route and watch the smoking craters from a safe distance - and that is no longer safe. Climbing an active volcano is a serious challenge, so act at your own risk.
Why go with a local guide (and my experience with Dominic)
I advise you to take a local guide: the trails to Karangetang are often poorly trodden, especially after a pandemic, and it is almost impossible to navigate the jungle without a local one. I went with Dominic, an experienced guide from the island of Siau.
What to expect on the route
- Start and time. We went to the trail early in the morning: a 30-minute scooter ride to the starting point on the south side of the volcano, and the climb began at 3:15 a.m. - you have to count on an early start if you want clear views and sunrise.
- Jungle. The path goes through a dense forest, and in some places the trail was almost closed by vegetation after a period of inactivity. We had to clear the machete route: each step required another stroke. The jungle is full of large green centipedes - harmless, but there was also a giant centipede (centopede) that can bite - guides warned that the bite is quite painful. The trail was steep, slippery and dirty - falls were a frequent affair.
- Old lava field. After about 2.5 hours of climbing out of the jungle, we stepped into an old lava field just in time for dawn. Lava stones were sometimes covered with moss and very slippery - I often fell and scratched my legs, despite the strong shoes. For safety reasons, we stopped in this field: we were about two-thirds of the way to the top and would have gone further into an area with an even more unstable and dangerous surface.
- The look and feel. From open areas of the jungle and lava field open wide views of the island. But the weather changes quickly: we were lucky to get out on time, because after a while the dense layer of clouds that covered the summit managed to rise.
Practical advice
- Shoes: Good trekking shoes with a tenacious tread are a must.
Clothing: Quick transition from heat to humidity and then cold wind at the tops - take layers.
Lighting: Start in the dark - a reliable headlight is a must.
Tools: Guides usually have a machete to clear the trail; without it, it will be more difficult.
Be prepared for falls and scratches - the trail is dirty and slippery.
Plan early ascent: Dawn gives better views and avoids clouds.
Discuss the route and safety limits with your guide in advance – it is better to stop earlier than take risks.
When is the best time to go
Carangetang actively "breathes" all year round, but clear weather and good visibility are more common in the dry Sulawesi season. Keep in mind that after the rains the trails become even more slippery.
A short guide to the island of Siau
The island of Siau is small and secluded, but Karangetang is visible from anywhere. Hotels like Kalea Beach Resort help arrange trips and transfers. On the island, it makes sense to stay for a couple of days: in addition to climbing the volcano, you can explore coastal villages and beaches.
Karangetang is an impressive, harsh and truly lively place. Climbing here requires physical readiness, good equipment and, in my experience, a local guide - this is how the hike becomes safer and more interesting.
Text and photo:https://www.personalguide.ru/
You'll be met in Indonesia.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy.individual toursehtravel agenciesIndonesia will offer its services and organize tours and interesting excursions for travelers.
Text and photo:https://www.personalguide.ru/
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