In a heartbreaking turn of events, the final text messages sent by 26-year-old Brazilian tourist Juliana Marins—who died after falling into a volcanic crater during a hike—have been revealed by her grieving mother.
Juliana tragically lost her life after slipping from a cliff on Mount Rinjani, a volcano located on the Indonesian island of Lombok. The accident occurred on the morning of June 21, sparking a search and rescue mission that lasted several days.
According to Gunung Rinjani National Park, her body was spotted via drone on June 23. Officials said she was found “motionless” on a rock ledge, 500 meters deep inside the crater. On June 24, it was confirmed that she had died from the fall.
Throughout her trip, Juliana had stayed in touch with her family, sharing updates filled with excitement and love. In what would be her final messages, obtained by Brazilian news program Fantástico and translated by The Sun, she expressed her affection and admiration for her family.
“Mami, I love you so much. I was heartbroken when we said goodbye,” Juliana wrote. “In fact, that’s the only thing that worries me: letting you, papi, or my sister be disappointed. Other than that, I’m not afraid of much—much less trouble.”
She went on to praise her mother’s strength and said she had inherited that same courage:
“I was raised by a woman who can solve any problem and who is not afraid to take the plunge and go after her dreams. I am like that too. I have different desires and dreams. I love you all very much and will always be grateful for your support, care, and affection. That is what makes me not afraid.”
Juliana had been hiking with a guide and a group when she reportedly asked to take a short break. The guide allowed her to rest while the group continued. When he returned to check on her, she was gone—having apparently fallen off the edge.
Her family has since criticized the response by Indonesian rescue teams, claiming delays may have cost Juliana her life.
“If the team had reached her within the estimated time of 7 hours, Juliana would still be alive,” they wrote in a statement on social media. “Juliana deserved much more. Now we are going to seek justice for her, because that is what she deserves. Don’t give up on Juliana!”
The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed her death after four days of rescue efforts, which were severely hampered by rough terrain, poor visibility, and adverse weather.
Tereza Cristina, a member of Brazil’s Federal Senate, offered condolences and urged the government to push for an investigation.
“Juliana was left behind twice: first on the trail, and again after her fall,” she said. “This is deeply tragic. We must ensure accountability.”
Previous hikers have described the trail where Juliana fell as “extremely difficult,” raising further questions about the level of safety and oversight for visitors in the area.
