Brazilian Tourist Found Dead Days After Falling Into Indonesian Volcano

Lombok, Indonesia – A Brazilian tourist has been confirmed dead after falling into the crater of Mount Rinjani, an active volcano on the Indonesian island of Lombok. The victim, 26-year-old Juliana Marins from Niterói, Brazil, reportedly fell on Saturday, June 21, 2025, during a hike along a steep volcanic trail.

According to local authorities, Marins slipped and fell at around 6:30 a.m. near the volcano’s rim while trekking with a group. Witnesses said rescue teams initially heard her cries for help and spotted her moving via drone footage. However, rescue efforts were severely hampered by hazardous conditions, including thick fog, steep and unstable terrain, and shifting volcanic sands.

Despite a multi-day operation involving over 50 rescuers, Marins could not be reached in time. Her body was finally located four days later on Tuesday, June 24, and recovered on Wednesday, June 25. The operation, which lasted about six hours, had to be completed manually using stretchers and climbing equipment after helicopter support was ruled out due to weather constraints.

Her tragic death has sparked outrage in Brazil, with Marins’ family accusing Indonesian authorities of negligence. They allege that had rescuers reached her within hours of the fall, she might have survived. “Juliana cried out for help and they waited too long,” a family spokesperson said, adding that they would seek legal action for accountability.

Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) defended the rescue team’s efforts, citing extremely difficult environmental conditions. Mohammed Syafii, the local rescue chief, explained that a helicopter could not operate safely under the circumstances.

Mount Rinjani, which rises 3,726 meters above sea level, is a popular but perilous destination for adventurous hikers. Despite its stunning views, the volcano’s active status and steep crater trails pose serious risks.

The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed condolences and is offering consular support to the family.

This incident has renewed calls for stricter safety regulations and improved emergency response protocols on high-risk trekking routes in Indonesia.