Papua Travel Guide

Explore the stunning natural attractions and rich cultural heritage of Papua in this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local cuisine, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Papua

Papua, located in eastern Indonesia, is a remote and fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, natural wonder, and outdoor adventure. Papua is home to a vast array of indigenous tribes, each with their distinct language, customs, and traditions. The region boasts awe-inspiring natural attractions such as snow-capped mountain peaks, pristine beaches, coral reefs, and dense rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Papua, we’ll take a closer look at the must-visit places, exciting things to do, local cuisine, where to stay, and more that this Indonesian province has to offer. Whether you’re an intrepid traveler seeking adventure or an avid explorer seeking cultural immersion, Papua is where you’ll find it all.

List of Places to Visit in Papua

Papua has a wealth of incredible attractions to explore, from culturally important museums to scenic hiking trails, impressive waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the must-visit places in Papua:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museum Negeri Papua

Located in the capital city of Jayapura, Museum Negeri Papua is a fantastic museum that offers a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Papua. The museum showcases a wide range of artifacts, including traditional weaponry, musical instruments, and handicrafts.

Asmat Villages

The Asmat people are one of the most prominent indigenous groups in Papua, known for their intricate carvings and woodwork. A visit to the remote Asmat villages is a must to immerse in local culture.

Natural Attractions of Papua: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Raja Ampat Islands

Located off the northwest tip of Papua, the Raja Ampat Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and divers. The islands boast some of the world’s most biodiverse coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish and marine life.

Baliem Valley

The Baliem Valley is located in the central highlands of Papua and is ideal for hiking and trekking. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the traditional villages of the Dani people, famous for their stunning landscapes and incredibly well-preserved ancient traditions.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Papua

Papua is a hiker’s paradise with an abundance of trekking trails at various levels of difficulty. From day hikes in the Baliem Valley to multi-day hikes on the snowy peaks of Carstensz Pyramid, Papua has it all. Biking routes include a beautiful trail from Sentani to the Danau Tondano waterfall, a 52km journey that takes you through rural countryside and stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Papua: Activities and Tours

Papua offers a wide range of activities, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation. Some of the best things to do in Papua include:

Diving and Snorkeling

Papua’s Raja Ampat Islands offer some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling opportunities, with crystal clear turquoise waters full of colorful marine life.

Wildlife Watching

Papua is home to a wealth of exotic wildlife species, including tree kangaroos, cassowaries, crocodiles, and bird species such as the Bird of Paradise.

Week-Long Itinerary for Papua

If you have a week to spend in Papua, you could follow this itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Jayapura, visit Museum Negeri Papua.
  • Day 2-3: Explore Baliem Valley, including a visit to the Dani people’s traditional villages.
  • Day 4: Take a flight to Manokwari, go to the Arfak Mountains.
  • Day 5: Visit the Raja Ampat Islands for diving and island-hopping.
  • Day 6-7: Get adventurous by tracing the Trigana waterfall and enjoy the spa relaxation at the Tiara Dewi Spa.

Food and Drink Scene of Papua

Papua has unique cuisine, with a focus on seafood, rice, and vegetables. Must-try dishes include Papeda, made from sago flour, and ikan bakar, grilled fish with a spicy sauce. Popular local beverages include coconut water and Arak, a traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented rice or palm sap.

Where to Stay in Papua: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Papua has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay include:

Swiss Belhotel Papua

Located in the heart of Jayapura, Swiss Belhotel Papua is an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable stay at a reasonable price.

Misool Eco Resort

Misool Eco Resort is an excellent place to stay for those who are diving or snorkeling enthusiasts, situated in the Raja Ampat.

What to Buy in Papua: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Papua has a fascinating and vibrant arts and crafts scene, with artisans creating beautiful wood carvings, intricate textiles, and beaded jewelry. Some popular souvenirs to bring home from Papua include carved wooden sculptures, woven baskets, and pearl jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Papua

The people of Papua have preserved their traditions and culture for centuries, and visitors can learn and appreciate the customs and traditions of the different tribes. Some of the most significant customs involve communal living and mutual support in family units, accompanied by elaborate rites of passage.

Best Time to Visit Papua

The best time to visit Papua is during the dry season months (June to September) when the weather is dry, and the days are generally sunny. It is important to note that the region is tropical, so the temperature is pleasant all year round, with minor variations in humidity and rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Papua

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Carry a raincoat, waterproof shoes, and other necessary gear for outdoor activities
  • Obtain permits from the local authorities before visiting remote areas

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without permission, especially of people and sacred areas
  • Touch any marine life, coral included.
  • Use any prohibited drugs as Indonesia has strict drug laws.

Safety and Health

Safety in Papua

Papua, like many other Indonesian regions, is safe to visit if you take common-sense precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur in tourist areas, so it’s best to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying valuables. Also, it is recommended to use cash if you’re unsure of a vendor’s payment processing.

Health in Papua

Papua is a tropical region, so there is a risk of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. It’s wise to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites, such as using mosquito repellent and wearing protective clothing like long-sleeve shirts and pants.

Getting to Papua: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Papua

Jayapura’s Sentani Airport is the primary gateway to Papua and connects the region to various Indonesian cities, including Jakarta. Listed below are other airports in Papua:

  • Timika Airport
  • Wamena Airport
  • Nabire Airport

Bus Stations Near Papua

It is not common to travel to Papua by bus since the region is so vast. However, there are some buses available that travel between larger cities like Jayapura and Wamena.

Other Options

Visitors can take a ferry to Papua, departing from the Indonesian ports of Sorong and Ambon.

How to Get Around in Papua

Public transportation options in Papua are limited, so the best option for getting around the region is to hire a private car, take a taxi, or join a guided tour. For those traveling on a budget, there is the option to take local buses but be prepared for more extended travel times

Where to Go Next from Papua: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Indonesia after your Papua adventure, here are some nearby destinations worth checking out:

  • Bali
  • Lombok
  • Nusa Tenggara

Conclusion

Papua is a fascinating and diverse destination, offering unique cultural experiences, breathtaking natural beauty, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. We hope this travel guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of all the things to do, see, and experience in Papua. So, pack your bags, book your flights, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in one of Indonesia’s most exciting provinces.

Wasur National Park Wasur National Park Skouw in Jayapura, the border post between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea Skouw in Jayapura, the border post between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea PELNI boat, ''KM. Sinabung'' PELNI boat, ''KM. Sinabung'' Sentani Airport (Dortheys Hiyo Eluay International Airport) has become a hub to go to cities and rural areas in Papua Sentani Airport (Dortheys Hiyo Eluay International Airport) has become a hub to go to cities and rural areas in Papua ''Burung cendrawasih'' (birds-of-paradise) ''Burung cendrawasih'' (birds-of-paradise) Korowai traditional house Korowai traditional house Kali Biru Genyem, Jayapura Kali Biru Genyem, Jayapura Raja Ampat karst Raja Ampat karst Ice on the top of Puncak Jaya Ice on the top of Puncak Jaya Traditional method of cooking called ''Bakar batu'' Traditional method of cooking called ''Bakar batu''


    Manokwari
    Merauke
    Raja Ampat
    Wamena