5 Popular Nature Tourism Destinations in Papua

Landscape and scenery of Lake Sentani Papua. (Shutterstock/Setiono Joko Purwanto)

The following article is a free translation from Kemenparekraf

Located in the easternmost region of Indonesia, Papua has unparalleled natural beauty wrapped with distinctive cultural values. Being the largest island in Indonesia, it is not surprising that there are many natural attractions that Papua has to offer.

Not only about the beauty of the island and its beaches, in Papua there are also other natural attractions in the form of lakes, hills, and waterfalls that are ready to welcome us while on vacation to Papua. So, what are the natural tourism options in Papua?

Here are 5 popular natural tourist destinations in Papua that must be visited:

1. Lake Sentani

The choice of popular natural tourist destinations in Papua is Lake Sentani. So beautiful, the lake which is located on the slopes of the Cycloop nature reserve with an altitude of 75 meters above sea level can make tourists who visit feel relaxed because of the sensation of a soft fresh breeze.

In addition to traveling around the lake while riding a boat, tourists can also enjoy the beauty of Lake Sentani from the top of Teletubies Hill. From the top of this hill we can see the sparkling water from Lake Sentani which is very beautiful. Most interesting, when viewed from the height of Lake Sentani like a symbol of love.

The natural beauty of Lake Sentani wrapped in culture can also be seen by tourists through the Lake Sentani Festival performance every year in June. The festival features traditional dances on boats, traditional ceremonies, to various Papuan culinary offerings.

2. Paniai Lake

Paniai Lake (photo: pinterest)

Paniai Lake is located in the Central Mountains, Paniai Regency, Papua. Lake Paniai has an area of ​​14,500 hectares, with very cool air that surrounds it because it is above an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level.

The natural beauty around the lake is still very well maintained. Lake Paniai has clear blue water which is a habitat for various fish and freshwater biota. In the afternoon, the sunset view looks very beautiful like a beautiful painting, thanks to the cliffs that surround Lake Paniai.

3. Baliem Valley

Baliem Valley

In addition to nature tours to the lake, we can also travel to the Baliem Valley, which is located in the Jayawijaya Mountains, Papua. The valley, which is located at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, is home to the Dani, Lani and Yali tribes.

One of the attractions of this natural tourist spot is the Baliem Valley Festival. This festival shows a simulation of war between the Dani, Lani, and Yali Tribes which are packaged in a very stunning dance performance.

The Baliem Valley Festival is regularly held every year for three days in August. Because of its popularity, the Baliem Valley Festival has succeeded in attracting the attention of foreign tourists who are willing to come to Papua just to enjoy this one festival.

4. Bihewa Waterfall

Bihewa Waterfall (photo: TribunWiki)

Located in Nabire Regency, Papua, Bihewa Waterfall is a natural tourist destination in Papua that is a pity to miss. Tourists don't just see a clear waterfall, but also the beauty of the Papuan forest that surrounds Bihewa Waterfall.

This waterfall has a height of 40 meters with seven levels. The higher the level of the waterfall, the more beautiful the scenery and air quality offered. Tourists can also see directly the beautiful natural panorama while listening to the roar of the waterfall which is very soothing.

5. Harlem Beach

Aerial View of Harlem Beach (photo: Ketahui.com)

Discussing the wealth of marine tourism in Papua is indeed endless, one of which is Harlem Beach. Storing stunning natural beauty, it's no wonder that Harlem Beach is predicted to be a small paradise in Papua.

Located in Jayapura Regency, Papua, Harlem Beach has beautiful natural scenery like a painting. The sea water at Harlem Beach is very clear, making it easier for tourists to see the underwater beauty from the beach. Plus the beauty of the sunset makes the holiday atmosphere fun.

So, which destination do you most want to visit while on vacation to Papua?