Satonda Island: Exploring Sumbawa's Mystical Saltwater Crater Lake
Tucked away off the coast of Dompu Regency in West Nusa Tenggara lies an island that defies nature. Satonda Island is a stunning 2,600-hectare landmass featuring a massive, mysterious saltwater lake right in its center.
While locals hold onto ancient myths to explain this natural anomaly, scientists have been fascinated by the island's unique geology since the 1980s. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventurer, Satonda Island is a pristine hidden gem you must include in your Indonesian itinerary.
The Local Myth: A King's Wrath
According to local folklore, the saltwater lake was born from tragedy. The legend tells of a powerful King from the ancient Tambora Kingdom who, while traveling through Dompu, fell deeply in love with a beautiful woman and decided to propose to her.
However, the woman realized the King was actually her long-lost son and refused the marriage. Enraged by the rejection, the King's fury triggered the heavens. The sky turned black, lightning struck, and the mighty Mount Tambora erupted. Realizing his grave mistake, the King wept bitterly. Locals believe that his endless tears of regret formed the salty waters of Lake Satonda.
The Scientific Truth: The Tambora Connection
Science offers an equally dramatic explanation. European researchers studying the island discovered that the lake's salinity is actually much higher than regular seawater.
The lake sits inside an ancient volcanic crater that formed over 10,000 years ago. Originally, it was filled with fresh water. However, during the apocalyptic eruption of nearby Mount Tambora on April 15, 1815, a massive tsunami was triggered. The colossal waves breached the crater walls, filling the lake with seawater that became trapped. Today, the lake's unique ecosystem closely resembles ancient prehistoric oceans.
How to Travel to Satonda Island
- Via Bima Airport: It takes roughly 6 hours overland to reach Nangamiro Harbor, where you can charter a local boat to the island.
- Via Sumbawa Besar Airport: Expect a 7-hour scenic drive to the harbor.
Pro Itinerary Tip: Because the journey is long, we highly recommend combining your Satonda trip with a multi-day Sumbawa overland tour. Explore the epic Mount Tambora trekking trails, the wild savannas of Doro Ncanga, or the majestic Moyo Island waterfalls.