GUNUNGKIDUL – A field trip to Pindul Cave offers students an unforgettable chance to explore nature through immersive experience. Students, teachers, and guides all work together to journey into the cave. We float through the underground river using tires, wearing life jackets and helmets for safety in the karst region where Pindul Cave is located in Yogyakarta. We do this trip to appreciate cave geology, deepen conservation awareness, and enrich learning across many subject under professional guidance, using top safety equipment and structured lesson plans.
The main activity on the Pindul Cave field trip is a journey through the underground river inside the cave using a tire and the best safety equipment provided, such as a life jacket and helmet, accompanied by a professional guide. Students will enjoy the beauty of the stalactite and stalagmite formations, and they will gain insights into the geological structure of the cave. This concept and purpose are carefully designed so that learning is fun, safe, and meaningful. Through first-hand experience, the outing becomes more than just sightseeing — it becomes a living classroom.
In the geology and conservation segment, students learn about karst cave formation processes: how water dissolves limestone over long periods, how underground rivers form, and how mineral deposition creates stalactites and stalagmites. They also discuss the importance of preserving natural caves, preventing pollution, and respecting ecosystems. The direct learning aspect makes the difference: students touch, see, and feel the environment, which cannot be replaced by textbooks alone.
Each subject has its specific goals during this outing. In economics, students may explore local ecotourism’s role in community income. In geography, they map cave systems, learn about karst topography, and understand groundwater flows. In civics, they reflect on collective responsibility and local regulations for nature preservation. In sociology, they observe community interactions, local culture, and the social impact of tourism in the area. This multi-disciplinary approach integrates theory and practice.
We also received positive feedback from selected students. For instance, Shaka said, “The field trip was really exciting. At first, I thought there would be a waterfall with strong currents, but instead we floated on tires while being guided. It was still fun because the water was deep, and I even jumped many times without hitting any rocks. I also learned to be careful when walking since the moss made the ground slippery. The activity outside the cave was less interesting, but overall, the experience was unforgettable.” Another student, Kenziearta, remarked, “At first, exploring the cave was exciting, but inside it felt a bit boring except for seeing bats. The best part was jumping from about four meters into deep water. I also learned geography lessons, like how dripping water over time shapes the cave’s sharp rock formations.” These voices strengthen the value of such outdoor learning.
In summary, the Pindul Cave outing is designed to combine adventure, science, and character building. It allows students to learn geology, conservation, and social issues directly from nature’s classroom. The feedback and documentation further enrich the experience for all participants. (Hanan Fakhira Rima Wibowo, S.Kom.)
