Explore 10 Hidden Gem Travel Destinations in Papua

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Papua has an alluring charm, like a little piece of heaven on earth. Raja Ampat is one of its natural splendors. However, there are many more pieces of paradise waiting to be explored in Indonesia’s easternmost province. Read on to discover 10 hidden gem travel destinations in Papua.

1. Tanjung Ria Beach

Located in the northern part of Jayapura City, Tanjung Ria Beach is better known as Base-G Beach (7th home base). It was the gathering point for the Allied forces under General McArthur before launching an attack on Japanese troops in the Philippines. Visitors can enjoy the golden sand and blue seawater. Rental huts are available for around Rp200,000 to Rp300,000.

2. Paniai Lake

Situated in a mountainous and hilly area of Paniai Regency, Paniai Lake covers an area of 14,500 hectares and is located at an altitude of 7,500 meters above sea level. It is a popular tourist destination and the largest producer of freshwater fish in the province. Fishing is allowed in the lake.

3. Lorentz National Park

Lorentz National Park is the largest national park in Southeast Asia, covering 10 districts in Papua. It spans 2.5 million hectares and is recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, including the long-tailed Cendrawasih or bird of paradise, snow quail, and Dingiso tree kangaroo. It is one of only three tropical regions in the world to have glaciers.

4. Wasur National Park

Located in Merauke Regency, about 20 minutes from the city center, Wasur National Park is home to the Papuan fauna, the cassowary. The park is designated as Wetlands of International Importance and is a haven for migratory birds from Australia and New Zealand. October is the best time to see migratory birds in the area.

5. Cendrawasih Bay National Park

Cendrawasih Bay National Park is the largest national park, covering 1,453,500 hectares. Located on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the park is known for its rich marine biodiversity and natural caves from ancient times, as well as underwater caves at Tanjung Mangguar and sulfur hot springs on Misowaar Island.

6. Rumberpon Island

Rumberpon Island is definitely a hidden gem in Papua. Located in the north of Teluk Wondama Regency, visitors can reach the island by boat from Manokwari in about 5 hours. One of the famous beaches on this island is Pasir Panjang Beach, whose coastline reaches 6 kilometers, where visitors can dive, fish, and swim.

7. Lake Sentani

Lake Sentani, located in Jayapura Regency, is the largest lake in the Papua region, covering an area of about 9,360 hectares. It is adorned with 22 small islands and produces up to 1,823 tons of fish per year.

Lake Sentani in Papua, Indonesia. (ANTARA/Evarukdijati/rst)

8. Baliem Valley

Situated in the highest mountains in Indonesia, Jayawijaya, Baliem Valley boasts a beautiful panorama and rich cultural experiences. With an area of up to 1,600 square kilometers, this valley is 27 kilometers from Wamena City, Papua. It is home to the Dani, Yali, and Lani tribes, who hold the famous Baliem Valley Festival almost every year.

9. Bosnik Beach

Located in Woniki Village, East Biak, or about 15 kilometers from the city center, Bosnik Beach offers beautiful clear blue waters. Visitors can pay Rp10,000 for the entrance fee and rent a hut for Rp50,000 to enjoy the beach.

10. Bihewa Falls

This must-visit waterfall in Papua is located in Makimi District, Nabire Regency. It has a height of approximately 40 meters with seven levels and is surrounded by a variety of Papuan flora. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the blue pool.

MILA NOVITA

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