On the southern slopes of Mount Merapi lies a village where generations of people have lived alongside nature. For the local community, Merapi is more than just a volcano. It is a living space that teaches balance, resilience, and respect for nature. Through Hiking & Boping, children and parents are invited to discover this way of life through a fun and meaningful learning experience.
The journey begins with a ride on a Boping, a traditional village vehicle unique to this area. As participants travel along the rural roads, they will meet local community members who share stories about everyday life at the foot of Merapi, how they make wise use of natural resources, and how the spirit of gotong royong—mutual cooperation—has become an important part of facing the challenges posed by nature.
The adventure then continues into the cool forest along an easy trekking route of approximately 1.5 kilometers. Along the way, participants are invited to observe plants commonly found on the slopes of Merapi and learn about the ecological functions of the forest as a water reservoir, wildlife habitat, and natural buffer that helps maintain environmental balance. Through direct experience, children are encouraged to develop their curiosity, observation skills, and care for nature.
The experience goes beyond discovering the beauty of nature. Participants also learn about life in a disaster-prone area. Together with local guides, children will hear stories about how the community prepares for potential hazards, recognizes signs from nature, and maintains solidarity when Merapi becomes active. This experience helps children understand that living alongside nature does not mean fighting against it, but learning to respect, understand, and adapt to it.
