A young Brazilian hiker, Juliana Marins, tragically lost her life after falling approximately 600 meters from Mount Rinjani, an active volcano in Indonesia, where she was stranded for nearly four days. The incident took place on June 21, while Marins was trekking with a guide and five other tourists on the 3,726-meter (12,224-foot) peak located on the island of Lombok. Indonesian authorities confirmed her death after extensive search efforts that involved difficult terrain and challenging weather conditions.
The search operation utilized a thermal drone, which located her body next to a crater. Despite the committed efforts of the Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency, led by Mohammad Syafii, recovery operations faced delays due to adverse visibility and challenging evacuation conditions. Brazilian officials, including the Foreign Ministry, expressed their condolences, describing the situation as a tragedy, and coordinated with local authorities during the rescue attempts.
Marins’ ordeal captivated attention in Brazil, with millions following the rescue efforts through various media. Her family, who confirmed her death, expressed gratitude towards those who prayed for her safety, highlighting the support received from citizens in Brazil during this difficult time. In a striking twist to the story, Brazil’s embassy in Jakarta raised concerns over alleged misinformation from Indonesian authorities regarding Marins’ status during the search. These claims, however, have yet to receive a response from the Indonesian government.
Marins, 26, was not only a traveler but also a dancer who had been exploring various countries across Asia since February, visiting places like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand before her journey took her to Indonesia.
This heartbreaking incident is a reminder of the risks associated with adventure travel and the importance of ensuring safety in unfamiliar terrains. The love and support expressed by her community speak volumes about the deep connections formed even across distances, showcasing a shared humanity in times of tragedy.