Traveling Across Papua

by Charles Roring in Manokwari of West Papua - Indonesia

Papua or West Papua is the eastern most region of the Republic of Indonesia. This second largest island in the world, after Greenland, has many beautiful places for travelers to visit. In Puncak Jaya, we can see snow capped-mountain of the equator, and in Kebar we can enjoy the wild life animals feeding along the grass of the great plain Kebar.

Or perhaps you like to enjoy the beauty of the coral reef in Cendrawasih National Marine Park and Raja Ampat islands. These are many tourist attractions which you should enjoy as a nature lover. Mountainous villages in West Papua are not well connected with roads. Therefore, the fastest way to visit a village is by flying with small aircrafts. In Papua, Christian missionaries use Pilatus Porter to transport goods and people. You can also use these planes to reach remote villages in the mountainous region of Papua. Or you can take hardtop. This type of vehicle, manufactured by Toyota, is a favorite choice for off-roaders. Sometimes, you will need to stay in the middle of the Papuan tropical jungle waiting for the hardtop crews to take the car out of the mud trap or to repair their vehicle before continuing the trip.

For those who enjoy the coral reef, the wooden boats of the local fishermen can be rented in an affordable price. The political turmoil which you might have read from websites should not be an obstacle for you if you want to visit the island. Your presence in Papua will be helpful in creating awareness about the importance of preserving Papuan nature and wildlife. Also read: Ship Wreck Diving in Dore Bay of Manokwari West Papua and Pilatus Porter, a suitable aircraft for travelling across mountainous region; and An Affordable Inn for Eco Travelers in Papua Island