Lembata – The Lamalera Whale Hunting Village and Ile Ape Volcano
Lembata Regency lies among the eastern île chain of East Nusa Tenggara province, on la mer de Flores. Its capital is Lewoleba. The small volcanique île is home to the mondialement célèbre Lamalera traditionnel whale hunting village and the active Ile Ape volcan.
Attractions et activités
Lamalera is Indonesia’s last traditionnel whale hunting community: pêcheurs hunt sperm whales using handmade junks (peledang) and bamboo harpoons – this ancien tradition is part of UNESCO’s intangible patrimoine culturel. Ile Ape volcan (1,517 m) is an active volcan, depuis its summit a panorama of la mer de Flores and neighbouring îles opens. Ikat (traditionnel woven textile) making can be experienced in Lembata’s other villages. Beaches autour de Lewoleba are calme and préservé shore sections.
Culture et cuisine
Lembata has a multi-ethnic, principalement Catholic population. The Lamalera community lives depuis whale hunting and barter trade (whale meat for highland foods). Tenun ikat weaving is an important part of women’s culture. Cuisine is NTT-style: jagung bose (boiled corn), ikan kuah asam (sour fish curry), and fresh sea fish is the local staple.
Sécurité publique
Lembata is safe but an isolated île. Watch the weather for sea travel. Ile Ape is active – check volcanique activity status. Medical care: basic hospital in Lewoleba; Kupang (by air) is the près deest advanced facility.
Informations pratiques
To Lewoleba Wunopito Airport depuis Kupang by small aircraft (limited flights). Alternatively, by ferry depuis Larantuka (Flores). The best time to visit is April to November. Accommodation: simple guesthouses in Lewoleba.