Located at the easternmost tip of Indonesia, West Papua travel destinations boast countless natural beauty. The popularity of this amazing region is well-deserved, as you will gain an extraordinary travel experience that you’ll never forget. Here is a summary of the 6 natural tourist destinations that you must visit in this province.
Why You Must Visit West Papua
As Indonesia’s most remote destination, West Papua is abounding with acres of lush rainforests, gorgeous waterfalls, and majestic rivers. Travel enthusiasts who appreciate long stretches of white sandy beaches and spectacular coral reefs can also experience a diverse range of aquatic life. Papua is also home to diverse tribes with vibrant cultures.
Going to Papua and getting across the island takes time because many places are only accessible by boat, but the journey is worth one of the remaining untouched beauties in the world. So don’t miss out on the chance to go exploring this province or learning about West Papua tribes and their cultural heritage.
6 West Papua Destinations You Must Visit
It’s surprising how unknown and unvisited West Papua is, considering that it’s home to untold beauty. Its tropical wildlife, lush nature, and exotic tribal traditions will surely make you fall in love with this place. It’s impossible to list all the must-visit destinations here, but we have compiled the top 6 places you must visit.
Raja Ampat Islands
This well-known West Papua district is arguably the icon of West Papua. The beauty of Raja Ampat is comparable to that of other tropical getaways such as Hawaii or the Maldives. The natural landscape of these islands is still largely untouched. Anyone who enjoys scuba diving would love this region’s clear water and spectacular underwater attractions that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.
Cenderawasih Bay National Park
Taman Nasional Teluk Cenderawasih or Cenderawasih Bay National Park is one of the largest marine national parks in Indonesia. Love diving? Dare yourself to swim with sharks and whales here. Of course, everything is under supervision and within a safe distance, so no need to worry. In this national park, you can also find underwater caves and cultural relics from the 18th century.
Arfak Mountains
The Arfak Mountains is another location that has to be included in the list of West Papua travel must-visits. This area is excellent for hiking; along the trail, you will be spoiled with cool fresh air, beautiful forests, and the exquisite twin lakes Anggi Gida and Anggi Giji. There’s a neighboring village where you can treat yourself to local dishes and find accommodation. You could even hire an English-speaking tour guide there.
Framu Lake
The clear water of this lake has gradations of green and light blue that blend together. The cool air is guaranteed to make you feel at home. By resting by Framu Lake and relaxing under the cool shadows of the surrounding trees, you’ll forget all the worries in the world.
Arborek Tourism Village
Want to experience the daily life of the Indigenous people? Any West Papua travel advice will recommend you to visit Arborek Tourism Village. As the pioneer of the “tourism village”, this village is designated for sustainable and interactive tourism. You can live with the local people and immerse yourself in their diverse and wonderful cultural traditions.
Tapurarang Archaeological Site
Located in Fakfak Regency, this site is a gallery of prehistoric paintings of human and animal palms on steep rock cliffs. While this ancient artwork is hundreds of years old, the natural dyes that were used are still clearly visible today. You should add Tapurarang to your West Papua travel itinerary.
