Krakatoa

Krakatoa (Krakatau) is a volcanic island complex in the Sunda Strait between the Indonesian islands of Java and Sumatra, within Lampung province. It is best known for the massive eruption of 26-27 August 1883 that destroyed much of the island complex and produced a large caldera.

The modern volcanic complex includes remnant islands of the pre-1883 edifice and the younger Anak Krakatau, which first emerged above sea level in 1927 and has been the principal active cone in recent decades. Visitors and researchers are drawn to the site for its dramatic volcanic history and ongoing geological activity, but visits are subject to safety restrictions and eruption risk.

Historically the 1883 eruption was one of the most violent volcanic events recorded, generating far-reaching tsunamis and atmospheric effects. Anak Krakatau’s growth and episodic collapses have reshaped the local islands since the early 20th century.

Krakatoa sits in the Sunda Strait separating Java and Sumatra and is administered from Indonesia’s Lampung province; the area is accessed by sea from nearby mainland ports, and maritime and aviation authorities monitor volcanic activity closely.

• 1883 eruption: The catastrophic eruption on 26-27 August 1883 largely destroyed the central island and produced a caldera; the 1883 eruption generated atmospheric shock waves and global climatic effects.
• Ongoing activity and access: Anak Krakatau emerged in 1927 and remains active; eruption activity and stability can change rapidly, and access is restricted or regulated by Indonesian authorities.

What to See #

• Rakata and remnant islands: The main eruptive cone of the Krakatau volcanic complex, largely destroyed in the 1883 eruption; remnants include steep-walled islands that are part of the older volcanic structure.
• Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatoa): Anak Krakatau, the island that emerged in 1927 inside the caldera and has been the active vent in modern times; it experienced a major flank collapse and tsunami on 22 December 2018.
• Surrounding islets and caldera: Other smaller islets and submarine volcanic features forming part of the Krakatau volcanic complex in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra.