The Enchanting Beauty of Precious Water Drops at Goa Akohi

Goa Akohi, a hidden natural wonder located in Negeri Tamilouw, Amahai District, Central Maluku Regency, Maluku, offers the allure of precious water drops rarely found elsewhere. The name “Akohi” is derived from the Akohilo clan’s territory where the cave is situated. Upon entering Goa Akohi, visitors are greeted with a stunning entrance adorned with captivating rock formations.

However, this natural beauty is threatened by the vandalism perpetrated by a few individuals, causing local residents to express their frustration. The government has declared that those who damage the geological formations will face imprisonment equivalent to the age of the stalactites and stalagmites taken.

Goa Akohi has become one of the prominent tourist destinations on Seram Island, owing to its extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites. When first discovered, rumors spread about the exorbitant value of the formations, leading some people to steal and sell them.

The discovery of Goa Akohi happened by chance during road construction in the area back in 1983. A large rock was lifted, revealing a massive hole. A significant explosion occurred, and smoke emerged from within the hole, alerting the community that it was a horizontal cave. Since then, Goa Akohi has been developed into a leading tourist attraction in Central Maluku.

In 1996, scientists from seven different countries conducted research on Goa Akohi, particularly focusing on its distinctive stalactites and stalagmites. The study revealed that these rock formations are among the most abundant in the world. Their sizes range from the size of a pinky finger to reaching two meters or even dozens of meters in length, formed by water drops on the cave walls over decades.

Goa Akohi boasts various types of stalactites and stalagmites ornaments, such as Pillars (connected stalactites and stalagmites), Dripstones (resembling crocodile teeth), and Eliktits (rare branching stalactites). This charm attracts tourists and scientists from all over the world.

To reach Goa Akohi, one can take a motor vehicle journey of approximately one hour from Masohi, the capital of Central Maluku, towards the east of Negeri Tamilouw. Goa Akohi is an exceptional natural heritage for Indonesia, a beautiful destination for both exploration and enjoyment. Now, it is the responsibility of the local community and the government to preserve Goa Akohi, ensuring its sustainability amidst the impacts of modernization.