A group of French tourists embarked on an adventure into the lush rainforests of West Sumatra, Indonesia, on January 17, 2025, with a singular goal: to witness the rare bloom of a giant corpse flower. Their expedition led them deep into the Sitingkai forest in Koto Rantang village, where, with the guidance of local experts, they were rewarded with a breathtaking sight.

Nestled on a cliffside, a magnificent Rafflesia Arnoldii, or giant corpse flower, was found in full bloom, measuring an impressive 91 centimeters in diameter. This marked the first recorded bloom of the species in the area this year.

"This particular flower is the first to bloom in 2025," said local guide Heru Nofriandi. "In previous years, we've observed several similar blooms in the surrounding forests.”