1. Mt. Merapi, also known as Gunung Merapi, is an active volcano located on the border of Central Java and Yogyakarta provinces in Indonesia. It is one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the world, having erupted multiple times in the past with devastating consequences. Despite the dangers, Mt. Merapi is a popular destination for both local and international tourists, offering spectacular views and challenging hiking trails.
Interesting facts about Mt. Merapi include:
- Its name means \"Mountain of Fire\" in the Javanese language.
- Mt. Merapi has erupted more than 80 times since 1548.
- The most recent major eruption occurred in 2010, causing the evacuation of thousands of people and resulting in over 300 deaths.
- Despite the dangers, locals still live on the slopes of the mountain and practice traditional farming methods.
- The summit of Mt. Merapi is home to an active crater that emits gas and smoke, making it potentially dangerous for hikers to get too close.
2. The mountain itself is open to the public 24 hours a day, but it is recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety reasons. The entrance to the hiking trails can be found in the village of Selo, located about 30 kilometers north of Yogyakarta. There is no phone number available for the mountain.
3. There is no entrance fee for Mt. Merapi, but visitors are recommended to use a guide for safety reasons. Guides can be hired in Selo or at the nearby village of Kaliurang. Transportation can be arranged through local tour operators or by hiring a car or motorbike. It is important to note that hiking Mt. Merapi is physically demanding and potentially dangerous, so it is recommended to come prepared with proper equipment and clothing, as well as to heed the advice of local authorities.