Located in the easternmost region of Indonesia, Papua has unparalleled natural beauty wrapped in unique cultural values. Being the largest island in Indonesia, it is not surprising that Papua has so many natural attractions to offer. It’s not just about the beauty of the islands and 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 holiday in Papua. So, what are the natural tourism options in Papua?
Here are 5 popular natural tourist destinations in Papua that must be visited:
Lake Sentani
The choice of popular natural tourist destinations in Papua is Lake Sentani. It is so beautiful that the lake, which is located on the slopes of the Cycloop nature reserve at a height of 75 meters above sea level, can make visiting tourists feel relaxed because of the sensation of the gentle caress of the fresh breeze.
Apart from traveling around the lake by boat, tourists can also enjoy the beauty of Lake Sentani from the top of Teletubbies Hill. From the top of this hill we can see the sparkling water of Lake Sentani which is very beautiful. Most interestingly, when viewed from the height of Lake Sentani, it looks like a love symbol.
Tourists can also see the natural beauty of Lake Sentani wrapped in culture through the Lake Sentani Festival performance every year in June. The festival features traditional dances on boats, traditional ceremonies, and various Papuan culinary dishes.
Paniai Lake
Paniai Lake is located in the Central Mountains, Paniai Regency, Papua. Paniai Lake covers an area of 14,500 Ha, with very cool air surrounding it because it is at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level.
The natural beauty around the lake is still very well maintained. Paniai Lake has clear blue water which is a habitat for various fish and freshwater biota. In the afternoon, the view of the sunset looks very beautiful, like a beautiful painting, thanks to the cliffs that surround Lake Paniai.
Baliem Valley
Apart from natural tourism to the lake, we can also travel to the Baliem Valley which is located in the Jayawijaya Mountains, Papua. This valley, which is at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, is home to the Dani Tribe, Lani Tribe and Yali Tribe.
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 is packaged in a very impressive dance performance.
The Baliem Valley Festival is routinely 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 festival.
Bihewa Nabire Waterfall
Located in Nabire Regency, Papua, Bihewa Waterfall is a natural tourist destination in Papua that is a shame to miss. Tourists not only see the clear waterfall, but also the beauty of the Papuan forests that surround Bihewa Waterfall.
This waterfall has a height of 40 meters with seven levels. The higher the level of the waterfall, the more beautiful the views and air quality it offers. Tourists can also see the beautiful natural panorama while listening to the roar of the waterfall which is very calming.
Harlem Beach
There is no end to discussing the wealth of marine tourism in Papua, one of which is Harlem Beach. Having amazing natural beauty, it is not surprising that Harlem Beach is predicted to be a small paradise in Papua.
Located in Jayapura Regency, Papua, Harlem Beach has beautiful natural views like a painting. The sea water at Harlem Beach is very clear, making it easy for tourists to see the underwater beauty from the beach. Plus the beauty of the sunset makes the holiday atmosphere enjoyable.