Holiday Ayo - The Wae Rebo Village Cultural Preservation Institute in Satarlenda Village, West Satarmese District, Manggarai Regency, NTT, has limited the climbing time to Wae Rebo to 16.00 WITA or 4 pm.

Apparently, this rule was implemented for safety, comfort, and to respect local customs.

"This is for the safety of guests and the peace of the Wae Rebo indigenous people," said Mikael Tonso, head of the Wae Rebo Cultural Preservation Institute, Wednesday (16/4).

Wae Rebo is located at an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level, hidden behind the mountains of Satar Lenda Village. Tourists have to trek about 5 km (1.5 hours on foot) to reach it.

This climbing time limit is not a new rule - it has been in effect since 2022, but now it has been tightened again.

"It's been a long time ago, but now we emphasize and socialize it again," added Mikael.

Obhy Dermawan, staff of the Wae Rebo Cultural Conservation Institute explained that the traditional welcoming ceremony only lasts until 18.00 WITA.

If tourists arrive after that, they cannot join the ceremony and also cannot have dinner.

"The food is prepared according to the number of guests who arrive before six in the evening," he said.

Night climbing is also risky. Several times the route to Wae Rebo has been closed due to landslides and fallen trees, which mostly occur at night. For safety reasons, climbing is limited before nightfall.

In addition to safety, this rule is also to avoid disturbing the villagers, who live in traditional cone-shaped houses called Mbaru Niang.

Tourists who stay overnight will be warmly welcomed and can enjoy the culture and spectacular views of the "village above the clouds."