Wae Lolos Ecotourism Flourishes, NTT Gains Global Recognition as International Tourists Dominate
The Wae Lolos Thousand Waterfalls Tourism Village, located in the Sano Nggoang District, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), continues to demonstrate positive momentum as a leading ecotourism destination in Flores. Between January and May 2026, the destination, situated on the slopes of Mount Mbeliling, successfully attracted 6,738 tourists, with international visitors dominating the figures at 63.4 per cent.
Robert Perkasa, Chairman of the Cunca Plias Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis), stated that this achievement proves that the community-based tourism concept implemented by the Wae Lolos community is capable of attracting global attention while providing economic benefits to local villagers. “The visitation data for the first five months of this year shows that Wae Lolos is increasingly recognised as an ecotourism destination offering an authentic natural experience. It is a point of pride that the majority of visitors are international tourists seeking pristine destinations managed directly by local communities,” said Robert.
According to Pokdarwis Cunca Plias data, 4,270 of the total 6,738 visitors were international tourists, while local and domestic tourists recorded 1,620 and 848 visitors, respectively.
Regarding its attractions, Robert noted that the high interest from foreign tourists is inseparable from the well-preserved natural beauty of Wae Lolos. The moniker “Thousand Waterfalls” is not merely a promotional slogan but a true reflection of the village’s natural wealth, featuring tropical forests, natural trekking paths, cool mountain air, and hidden waterfalls that act as a magnet for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Monthly data shows that January started strongly with 1,945 visitors. While numbers dipped to 705 in February due to the rainy season, the trend rebounded in March and April with 1,091 and 1,102 visitors, respectively. A peak surge occurred in May 2026, when visitor numbers reached 1,884, including 1,386 international tourists, marking the highest record for foreign arrivals during the first five months of the year.
Robert stated that this success extends beyond the tourism sector, stimulating the village economy. The presence of tourists has opened business opportunities for residents, ranging from tour guiding and homestays to canteens and the sale of agricultural products and local goods. “Tourists do not only enjoy the natural beauty; they also purchase coffee, vanilla, cinnamon, candlenut, cloves, and fresh fruit, as well as staying in local homes. The economic circulation is felt directly by the community,” he added.
He emphasised that Community-Based Tourism serves as the fundamental pillar for development in Wae Lolos. Under this concept, the community acts as the primary driver in the entire tourism economic chain. “We believe the strength of Wae Lolos lies not just in its many waterfalls, but in the community’s involvement in preserving and managing them. Tourism here grows from the community, by the community, and its benefits return to the community,” Robert asserted.
He further noted that the success of Wae Lolos proves that environmental preservation and community welfare can progress hand in hand, as all tourism activities prioritise the principles of sustainability and conservation.
Despite the encouraging results, Robert acknowledged challenges in maintaining stable visitation throughout the year. Consequently, Pokdarwis, alongside the village government, is preparing various innovations based on education, agriculture, and culture. “We want Wae Lolos to remain active even outside the dry season. Moving forward, we will strengthen educational tourism, cultural attractions, and immersive community experiences to ensure tourists have reasons to visit year-round,” he concluded.