KrakatauOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
The volcanic island that shaped Earth's history
What to do in Krakatau? Dive into an unparalleled geological and historical adventure on this iconic volcanic island. Far from bustling cities, Krakatau offers an immersive experience where nature reigns supreme. Discover the active cone of Anak Krakatau, born from the ashes of the historic 1883 eruption, and explore the remnants of the ancient caldera, witnesses to telluric power. Our outdoor escape game invites you to a unique treasure hunt, transforming your exploration of this natural wonder into a captivating scavenger hunt. It's an unusual activity, a true expedition that combines discovery, history, and adrenaline. Get ready for an original outing where every step on this volcanic land brings you closer to a mystery to solve. Discover below the trail we offer in Krakatau, an unforgettable way to experience the island.
Teluk Betung — Uncover the 1883 Krakatoa Conspiracy
Decipher the hidden records of the 1883 Krakatoa eruption. Uncover why colonial officials buried the truth about the tsunami's real death toll and the secrets locked in Teluk Betung's archives.
Krakatau's Shadow — Decode the 1883 Cataclysm
Decipher the lost records of the 1883 Krakatau eruption. A maritime disaster claimed 36,000 lives—uncover the hidden testimony buried in Teluk Betung's monuments and solve the mystery of what really happened that August morning.
Landmarks of Krakatau
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in Krakatau
For an unusual activity in Krakatau, our outdoor escape game is an opportunity for an original outing in the heart of a lunar landscape. Off the beaten path, the trail takes you through black sand beaches, volcanic rock formations, and lush vegetation that has reclaimed the island. It's a unique experience where geological history intertwines with adventure. The scavenger hunt invites you to observe the details of the landscape, understand the forces that shaped this mythical place, and solve puzzles inspired by Krakatau's wild nature. A total immersion for those seeking the extraordinary.
Things to do in Krakatau with kids
What to do with the family in Krakatau? Our outdoor escape game is an exceptional activity for children and teens, transforming the island's discovery into a true expedition. Accessible from age 8, the scavenger hunt stimulates everyone's curiosity: the youngest marvel at the unique flora and fauna, while older ones are fascinated by the volcanic history. It's a teen-friendly outing that moves beyond screens, where everyone collaborates to solve outdoor puzzles. The trail is designed to be fun and educational, offering a memorable adventure for the whole family, away from crowds and in direct contact with powerful nature.
Krakatau for couples
Krakatau for couples is an extraordinary romantic getaway, a shared adventure that strengthens bonds. Our outdoor trail offers an intimate couples outing, away from the hustle and bustle, where you explore breathtaking landscapes together. The romantic activity here takes on an epic dimension: solving puzzles hand-in-hand in front of an active volcano, sharing moments of contemplation before unique panoramas. It's an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, to feel connected both to each other and to the raw power of nature. A profound and memorable experience for adventurous couples.
What to do in Krakatau when it rains
What to do in Krakatau when it rains? The volcanic island offers a dramatic and mysterious atmosphere in the rain, transforming the landscape into an enchanting tableau. While our escape game is entirely outdoor, a downpour on Krakatau is an experience in itself. The air is pure, the vegetation's colors are vibrant, and the steam escaping from the volcano takes on an almost supernatural dimension. Pack a good raincoat and embrace the elements: this wet-weather activity will connect you even more deeply to the island's raw power. It's an adventure that doesn't fear the whims of the sky.
Where is Krakatau, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Krakatau
- Taman Fatahillah (Fatahillah Square)
- Jakarta History Museum (former Batavia City Hall)
- Cafe Batavia
- Jembatan Kota Intan (Kota Intan Bridge)
- Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa (Sunda Kelapa Port)
- Gereja Sion (Sion Church)
- Glodok (Chinatown)
- National Monument (Monas) Park
- Carita Beach (Pandeglang)
- Labuan Port (Pandeglang)
- Anyer Beach (Serang)
- Pandeglang Town Hall
- Tanjung Lesung Promenade
- Labuan Public Park (in front of BMKG office)
- Volcanic Information Center (Panimbang)
- Bukit Cemara Viewpoint (Serang)
The history of Krakatau
Sunda Kelapa and Dutch Colonialism
Krakatau, a volcanic island complex in the Sunda Strait, is linked to the history of Jakarta, a city once known as Batavia. The story begins with Sunda Kelapa, a port at the estuary of the Ciliwung River. It served as the main harbor for the Hindu Sunda Kingdom from the 13th to 16th centuries, trading spices, particularly pepper.
In 1522, the Sunda Kingdom, facing threats from Islamic sultanates, made a treaty with the Portuguese, granting them trade access for military aid. In 1527, Fatahillah, representing the Demak Sultanate, conquered Sunda Kelapa and renamed it Jayakarta. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) arrived in the early 17th century. In 1619, Jan Pieterszoon Coen seized Jayakarta and established Batavia as the VOC headquarters. This began centuries of Dutch colonial rule, which shaped the city's architecture, infrastructure, and culture, visible in areas like Kota Tua.
The 1883 Eruption and the Birth of Anak Krakatau
While Jakarta developed, the Krakatau volcanic complex remained a force of nature. The most significant event in its history occurred in 1883. After centuries of inactivity, Krakatau began erupting in May 1883. The main explosions took place on August 26–27. These eruptions were among the most violent volcanic events recorded, with an estimated volcanic explosivity index of 6, equivalent to 200 megatons of TNT. The explosions were heard nearly 5,000 km away. The eruption caused two-thirds of the island to collapse, generating tsunamis that killed over 36,000 people in coastal communities on Java and Sumatra. The ash plume reached 80 kilometers high, darkening the region for two and a half days and lowering global temperatures by 0.5°C for five years. In 1927, within the caldera left by the 1883 eruption, a new island emerged: Anak Krakatau, meaning "Child of Krakatau." This new volcano has been active since, growing several meters per year and experiencing frequent eruptions.
What to see in Krakatau
- Anak Krakatau — This active volcanic island emerged from the 1883 caldera. Boat tours offer views of its cone and lava flows. Guided hikes to the first level provide views.
- Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa — This historic port in Jakarta still has traditional two-masted wooden sailing ships called pinisi transporting goods between islands. The area shows Jakarta's maritime past.
- Taman Fatahillah — This public square in Kota Tua (Old Town) is surrounded by colonial buildings. It is a central point to see the Dutch heritage of Batavia.
- Jakarta History Museum (former Batavia City Hall) — In the former city hall building from the 18th century, this museum covers Jakarta's history from prehistoric times through the Dutch colonial era to independence.
- Jembatan Kota Intan — This is the oldest bridge in Indonesia, a Dutch drawbridge built in 1628. Its restored structure is in Kota Tua.
- Gereja Sion — This is the oldest church in Jakarta, consecrated in 1695. Originally known as "De Nieuwe Portugeesche Buitenkerk," this Protestant church displays 17th-century Dutch architecture and historical religious artifacts.
- Glodok (Chinatown) — This is Indonesia's largest and oldest Chinatown, established by the Dutch East India Company in 1740. It has a mix of traditional Chinese and colonial Dutch architecture, markets, and temples like Dharma Bhakti Temple (from 1650).
- National Monument (Monas) Park — This park in Central Jakarta contains a 132-meter obelisk built to commemorate Indonesia's independence. The monument is topped with a flame covered in gold leaf and has an observation deck.
When to visit Krakatau
The dry season, from May to September, is the best time to visit the Krakatau region and Jakarta. During these months, the seas around Krakatau are calmer, making boat trips to Anak Krakatau safer. Jakarta's weather is also more pleasant, with less humidity and rainfall. Avoid the rainy season, from October to April, as heavy downpours can disrupt travel, especially boat excursions to the volcano. April and October can offer fewer crowds and decent weather.
Getting around Krakatau
To reach the Krakatau area, most visitors travel via Jakarta. From Jakarta, a trip to Anak Krakatau involves a 3.5-hour drive to coastal towns like Carita or Anyer Beach in Pandeglang, followed by a 1.5 to 2-hour speedboat journey across the Sunda Strait. Tours often depart from Jakarta around 5:00 AM.
Within Jakarta, the Kota Tua area, with many historical sites, is best explored on foot. For longer distances, ride-hailing apps for cars and motorbikes are available. TransJakarta buses offer a network, and the KRL Commuterline train connects parts of the city. Parking in Jakarta can be difficult. For Anak Krakatau, check the current alert level from Indonesia's Volcanology Agency and travel with a local guide.
Things you probably do not know about Krakatau
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Jembatan Kota Intan
- Did you know that Indonesia's oldest bridge has had several names throughout its history? Originally built in 1628, it was first called 'Engelse Brug' (English Bridge) due to a British stronghold nearby. After being rebuilt in 1630, it became 'Hoenderpasarbrug' (Chicken Market Bridge) because of a market across it. It was also known as 'De Middelpunt Brug' and 'Queen Juliana Bridge' before finally being named Jembatan Kota Intan after Indonesian independence.
- Gereja Sion
- The oldest church in Jakarta was built on a rather unusual foundation. Gereja Sion, consecrated in 1695, was constructed on a former cemetery that also served as a Protestant Christian learning ground for Portuguese slaves. The church's thick brick walls were reportedly held together with a mix of sand and heatproof sugar.
- Glodok (Chinatown)
- Jakarta's Chinatown, Glodok, was not always a place of free settlement for its Chinese residents. In November 1740, following a massacre in which 5,000 Chinese were killed, the Dutch East India Company designated Glodok as a ghetto, forcing Chinese inhabitants to live outside the city walls.
- National Monument (Monas) Park
- The National Monument in Jakarta carries a deeper, symbolic meaning beyond commemorating independence. The monument's design encapsulates the philosophy of Lingga and Yoni, ancient Hindu symbols. The obelisk represents Lingga (masculinity, positive elements), while the goblet-shaped platform at its base symbolizes Yoni (femininity, negative elements, and also a rice mortar).
- Cafe Batavia
- This historic cafe on Taman Fatahillah has a past that goes beyond serving coffee. The building housing Cafe Batavia, the second oldest in Taman Fatahillah, was constructed around the 1830s. It served various purposes, including a residence, an office for Dutch governors, and a warehouse, before becoming an art gallery and then a restaurant in the early 1990s.
- Anak Krakatau
- The 'Child of Krakatau' is not just a volcano; it's a living laboratory of nature. Since emerging from the sea in 1927, Anak Krakatau has been a natural laboratory for observing ecosystem development. All plants on the island originated from seeds carried by sea or wind, making it a unique study in how life colonizes new volcanic land.
Questions about visiting Krakatau
How long should I stay to experience Krakatau and its surroundings?
For a visit to Anak Krakatau, a one or two-day trip from Jakarta is common. The one-day trip involves an early start. If you want to explore Jakarta's historical sites in Kota Tua and other attractions, allow at least 2-3 additional days to see the city's offerings.
What is the best way to get around the Krakatau area and Jakarta?
To reach Anak Krakatau, travel by car from Jakarta to a coastal town like Carita, then by speedboat. In Jakarta, public transportation like TransJakarta buses and the KRL Commuterline are efficient. Ride-hailing apps are also used, and Kota Tua is best explored on foot.
What are the main neighborhoods or areas to explore in Jakarta?
Beyond Krakatau, Jakarta has several areas. Kota Tua has Dutch colonial history. Glodok is the Chinatown. Central Jakarta has modern skyscrapers and the National Monument. Menteng offers residential districts.
What is the typical budget for a trip to Krakatau and Jakarta?
A day trip to Anak Krakatau can cost around US$50 for entry, plus an additional US$100-250 per day for food, transport, and a guide. In Jakarta, daily expenses vary based on accommodation, dining, and activities, but budget options are available for food and local transport.
Is Krakatau suitable for visiting with children?
Visiting Anak Krakatau is generally better for active adult travelers, as the terrain can be challenging for younger children. For families with children, exploring Jakarta's historical sites, museums, and parks might be a more comfortable experience.
What local customs or etiquette should I be aware of?
Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, so dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, is respectful. A polite demeanor is appreciated when interacting with locals. Bargaining is common in traditional markets like those in Glodok, but do so respectfully.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Krakatau cost?
Our outdoor escape game in Krakatau is priced at €12 per team (for 1 phone). If you are multiple players wishing to use more than one phone, the price is €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. As there is only one trail available on the island for now, there is no City Pass.
Is it suitable for children / families?
Yes, our trail in Krakatau is perfectly suitable for families and children from age 8. The puzzles are designed to be solved as a group, encouraging collaboration. Younger participants will be fascinated by the discovery of the volcanic nature, while teenagers will enjoy the challenge of the puzzles. The GPS guidance system ensures a safe and fun progression for all ages.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Krakatau last?
The Krakatau outdoor escape game trail typically lasts between 1h30 and 2h30, depending on your pace and ability to solve the puzzles. It's a self-guided activity, meaning you can take your time to explore the island and enjoy its unique landscapes without time constraints.
Do I need to book in advance?
Online booking is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially if you plan your visit during peak tourist seasons. You will instantly receive an activation code by email, which you can use whenever you wish, with no expiry date. This allows you to be flexible and start the game as soon as you arrive on the island.
What is Krakatau known for? / What to visit in Krakatau?
Krakatau is world-famous for its spectacular volcanic history, especially the cataclysmic eruption of 1883. Today, it is known for its active volcano, Anak Krakatau ('Child of Krakatau'), which continues to grow. Beyond the volcano, you can explore the black sand beaches, the submerged caldera, and the unique flora and fauna that have recolonized the island. Our trail incorporates these natural and historical elements into its puzzles.
What is the best season to visit Krakatau?
The best season to visit Krakatau is the dry season, from May to September. Weather conditions are generally more stable, with less rain and clearer skies, which is ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying the views of the volcano. However, even in the rainy season, the island retains a wild and dramatic beauty, offering a different but equally captivating experience.
More cities in Indonesia
Jakarta
Vibrant metropolis where tradition meets modernity
Borobudur
The mystery of the world's largest Buddhist temple
Yogyakarta
Java's cultural heart, where temples meet traditions
Ubud
Bali's spiritual and artistic heartland
Tana Toraja
Land of spirits and ancient rituals
Banda Aceh
Gateway to Mecca, between history and resilience
Dili
Where the ocean meets history and resilience
Banda
The beating heart of the Spice Islands