Lorentz National Park in Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Province
Jayawijaya Regency has been chosen as another Indonesia’s famous tourist destination these days. Thanks to the majestic landscapes and beautiful panoramas. Visitors can explore numerous great places including the one called Lorentz National Park, which is one of the biggest national parks in Indonesia. It is the part of Jayawijaya Mountain and Arafuru’s mangroves, actually. With the vastness and tons of natural attractions, the site indeed lures more tourists over time. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing and see various types of vegetation or animals in that area. They even have the chance to meet the Asmat Tribe!
The Nuance
Lorentz National Park is famous both among the locals and foreigners. Even it has become one of the United Nations’ heritage! For the information, the total area is 2,505,600 hectares and most of the sites are untouched by humans. The inauguration was in 1997 and it has become more popular since then. The only problem is only related to the accessibility. It is because tourists need to use both an airplane and a boat to get there. Plus, it also involves trekking to reach some recommended spots.
Exploring Lorentz National Park
The fact is Lorentz National Park belongs to several regencies including Jayawijaya, Merauke, Paniai, and Fak-Fak. Thus, tourists can access the site from those locations. The first thing that tourists can get by visiting Lorentz is related to the history. According to the locals, the name derives from the founder of the site (Hendrikus Albertus Lorentz). He found it during his expedition, actually. Tourists can learn more about the history from the locals, later. As an alternative, they can learn from the local guide that they have hired.
The next thing that tourists can get when visiting Lorentz National Park is definitely the beautiful nature. It is unique that visitors may see glaciers in such tropical site. According to the locals, in fact, tourists may find about 34 types of vegetation there including savannas, sago forest, swamps, and much more. Not to mention hundreds of types of mammals and birds live in it including the rare ones. Plus, the site is rich in minerals for mining industries.
Another allure in Lorentz National Park is the presence of local tribes who live in that area. These include Dani Barat, Nduga, Sempan, and Asmat Tribe. These people have been living there for generations, after all. That means tourists have the chance to meet these indigenous people and interact with them. Taking photos is also possible during the visit. Moreover, visitors can learn a little bit about the tribes’ culture and traditions. For examples, the Asmat Tribe is known for its carvings and awareness regarding the environment. They even consider trees as part of their life!
Nearby Attractions
- Trikora Peak
How to Get There
From Jakarta City (Soekarno – Hatta International Airport), tourists can take an airplane and head to Wamena Airport right away. This flight takes approximately 10 hours and 15 minutes. Once they arrive at the destination, they should find a reliable local transportation service in order to reach Lorentz National Park. For an efficient trip, it is recommended to hire a professional tour agency later.
Where to Stay
- Raja Ampat Dive Lodge
- Permata Hotel
