Bewitched by the Charms of Nif River’s Valley

Kompas/Fransiskus Pati Herin

Visitors pass through a stone arch that stands on the banks of the Nif River in Seram Bagian Timur regency, Maluku, in September. The site is a popular tourist attraction for local residents, although it is difficult to access and a lack of promotion means it is largely unknown among people outside the area.

The smell of sulfur wafted through the air as I walked in Nif River in Eastern Seram regency, Maluku. The water was not as cold as it was where I took my first dip 700 meters back. The beautiful cliff waiting for me ahead piqued my curiosity.

My steps were hindered by scattered black stones along the river, where water only flowed on one side. Fortunately, the current was not too heavy and the water was only 50 centimeters deep. The crystal clear water made it easy for me to hop between submerged stones.