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Life in Waerebo Village: Living Peacefully in Harmony with Nature

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The people of Waerebo Village live a very peaceful and simple life in the heart of the Manggarai forest, Flores, Indonesia. Surrounded by mountains and dense tropical forest, this traditional village is far from modern technology. There is no internet connection, no electricity, and no water irrigation system. Yet, the people of Waerebo Village enjoy a meaningful life in harmony with nature.

This unique way of living makes Waerebo Village tour one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Indonesia.

A Simple Life in Waerebo Village

So, what do the people of Waerebo Village do with such limited facilities?

They live a self-sufficient lifestyle. Farming is their main activity, producing their own food such as coffee, corn, rice, and vegetables grown around the village. The food they harvest is cooked together in traditional ways inside their houses, strengthening family bonds and community spirit.

This simple lifestyle reflects the values of balance, cooperation, and respect for nature that have been passed down for generations.

Cultural Roles and Traditions

Another important aspect of life in Waerebo Village is the role of the elders. Older people are responsible for preserving customs and traditions. They take care of the traditional cone-shaped houses called Mbaru Niang, teach village rules to the younger generation, and lead traditional ceremonies.

Elders also play a key role in decision-making within the community. Some of them are involved in tourism, welcoming visitors who join a Waerebo Village tour and explaining the history, culture, and philosophy of their village.

Education of Children in Waerebo Village

Education in Waerebo Village is also unique. Children attend school in nearby villages such as Denge Village. To reach school, they must walk for several hours through mountains and forest trails. Some children stay in other villages during the school week and return to Waerebo Village on holidays.

When they are at home, children learn traditional knowledge from their parents and elders, including farming skills, cultural values, and customary laws. This balance between formal education and traditional learning helps preserve the identity of Waerebo Village.

How Can They Live Like This?

The big question many visitors ask is: how can the people of Waerebo Village live so peacefully together?

The answer lies in their deep respect for culture and tradition. The people strongly believe that living in harmony with nature and each other honors their ancestors. Customary laws guide daily life, ensuring respect, cooperation, and mutual understanding.

In one Mbaru Niang, several related families live together. These are extended families—parents, children, grandparents, and siblings—not strangers. Despite sharing limited space, conflicts are rare because everyone follows traditional rules and respects the elders.

The Amazing Experience of Visiting Waerebo Village

What makes Waerebo Village truly amazing is not only its iconic traditional houses standing in the middle of the forest, but also the life values you can learn from the people.

By joining a tour Waerebo Village, visitors can experience living simply, respecting others, and sharing daily life with the local community. It is a powerful reminder that happiness does not always come from modern conveniences, but from harmony, respect, and strong cultural roots.