Brazilian Tourist Dies After Days-Trapped on Active Volcano Cliff

Juliana Marins, a 26-year-old Brazilian publicist and traveler, fell from a hiking trail into the crater area of Mount Rinjani, an active volcano on Lombok Island, Indonesia, early on June 21.

Drone footage captured her conscious moments after the fall—stranded on a rocky ledge approximately 500 meters below the ridge—but treacherous terrain, dense fog, and extreme conditions made rescue efforts extraordinarily dangerous.

Rescue Efforts Hampered by Nature’s Fury

Over four grueling days, nearly 50 Indonesian search-and-rescue personnel worked tirelessly to reach Juliana. They relied on thermal drones, mountaineering gear, and helicopters, but were repeatedly halted by steep cliffs, sudden weather changes, and limited visibility.

Her family reported that rescue teams advanced only about 250 meters on one day, retreating as conditions worsened. Two expert local guides were eventually brought in, but time ran out before they could reach her.

Guide Abandonment Sparks Concern

Juliana’s sister told Brazilian media that fatigue led her to request a pause from the hiking guide, who continued with the group and left her behind. By the time he returned, Juliana had fallen. The family called out this abandonment as a critical misstep that led to her tragedy .

Hope to Despair for the Brazilian Publicist

Drone footage initially showed Juliana moving slowly, and rescuers reported hearing her cries for help. But she slipped deeper, descending another 1,100 feet from her original fall site—and became immobile. Despite continuous attempts, she remained out of reach until her body was recovered on June 24.

Global Shock and Diplomatic Outcry

The Brazilian embassy in Jakarta coordinated with local authorities throughout the ordeal. The Foreign Ministry and President Lula da Silva extended condolences, expressing national grief and frustration, especially after initial reports wrongly suggested she was alive and receiving assistance.

Her story resonated deeply in Brazil, where millions followed search updates via an Instagram account created by her family. “We remain very grateful for all the prayers… but with great sadness, we inform you that she did not survive,” the family wrote.

Legacy of a Free Spirit

Juliana had been traveling solo through Southeast Asia—visiting Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia—before embarking on her final trek. Known for her adventurous spirit and love of exploration, her death is a solemn reminder of the risks adventurers take in remote volcanic regions.

You might also want to read: Mount Etna’s Explosive Eruption Sends Tourists Fleeing to Save Their Lives