PLN develops geotourism site at Mataloko in Ngada

Ngada — PLN is developing a geothermal tourism area at the hot-steam and hot-mud eruption site in Wogo Village, Golewa, Ngada, according to Floresa and RRI reports published in late October and November 2026.

The site was previously restricted because of safety concerns linked to steam and hot-mud manifestations. Floresa reported that PLN had placed warnings against entry and that the area was associated with failed early drilling for the Mataloko geothermal power project.

The development is nearing completion and is targeted for completion in early 2027, RRI reported. The project is intended to use the geothermal manifestations for tourism education while supporting local participation.

The site covers land that PLN has acquired and certified. Floresa reported an area of 49.360 square metres, located about 300 metres west of, or behind, the Turetogo settlement.

Why it matters to readers

The project could add a new visitor site in Flores beyond the island’s established destinations. RRI reported that PLN’s programme includes facility construction and repairs, community training and support for a tourism-awareness group.

RRI said the development is intended to extend the use of geothermal resources beyond electricity generation to tourism, education and community economic empowerment. The report also linked the project to a 2025 East Nusa Tenggara provincial geothermal task force recommendation to manage the Mataloko manifestations with attention to the environment, safety and community benefits.

Floresa reported that the hot-steam and hot-mud eruptions were connected by a 2004 government study to failed drilling of wells MTL-01 and MT-1. Both wells were later sealed with a cement mixture.

RRI reported that PLN’s Nusa Tenggara Development Unit was also preparing drilling stages for the Mataloko FTP-2 geothermal power project, with a stated capacity of 2x10 Megawatt. That report did not state a completion date for the drilling work.

Sources

• Floresa — established regional news organisation
• RRI — public radio news organisation
• esdm.go.id
• projectmultatuli.org
• suarantb.com