Exploring the Wild West of Papua
The wild west of Papua is one of the most untouched and fascinating regions in the world. With its pristine landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant local cultures, this area offers travelers an incredible adventure full of discovery and excitement. From exploring dense rainforests to diving into crystal-clear waters, the experiences here are truly unforgettable.
By Alex del Olmo, Cruise Director on the Seven Seas
We just finished our crossing from Sorong to Kaimana, on the first leg of our current film expedition. Hit our targets in Raja Ampat, got what we hoped for there, and then started exploring Triton Bay and surrounding areas, off the South West coast of Papua Bird’s Head region. Some of you would be wondering what we are doing down there, if you would follow our positions on a chart! Well, there are many reasons, and we are adding more reasons as we go…
The larger Triton Bay area is still quite isolated and there isn’t too much tourism here yet. Only a handful of liveaboards come here and there is only one dive resort in this region. That results in not more than just some occasional presence of divers and adventurers at some of the more well-known spots near Kaimana, but it is not difficult for us to find magical spots all for ourselves, on any given day. We are hitting the spots that we already know, and we’re having new adventures every day, with a professional film camera crew with us to witness it all! It will take a while, but wait till you see the final production…????
Down here in the Wild West of Papua, we can still have a glimpse back in time, to what it was like to dive in Indonesia 25 years ago. Already on the way down to Triton Bay, after we left Raja Ampat behind us, we stopped at this magical seamount, not too far off the mainland of Papua, with cleaning stations of magnificent oceanic manta rays and huge swirling schools of big eye trevallies.
And then further South we got into the thick of it, snorkelling with multiple Whale Sharks, and finding what are arguably the best places in all of Indonesia to see brilliantly coloured soft corals in all sizes and shapes. Absolutely incredible macro diving is all over the menu here as well – hard to look away from – but always keep your eyes open for megafauna here in Papua’s Wild West – anything can happen!
Not uncommon here to bump into some great whales, as we just did, mother with a calve! And of course dolphins, which are often hanging around with the whale sharks, providing some of the best opportunities out there to swim with these marine mammals. But that is not all, look around you, top side, and behold an incredible landscape made of limestone mountains and rocky islands, some of them with ancient rock paintings of unknown meaning. Take your time in between diving and snorkelling, explore the coastlines, marvel at the jungle, and take a swim in a magnificent waterfall, tumbling down from the wilderness into the unspoilt ocean.
Among the top experiences in the wild west of Papua are encounters with unique wildlife species, such as the Birds of Paradise and rare marine creatures. Adventurers can also explore traditional villages to learn about indigenous customs and crafts. For nature lovers, trekking through untouched forests and visiting hidden waterfalls provide a perfect escape from the everyday hustle. Meanwhile, divers and snorkelers will be amazed by the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
Back in the water, keep your mind and eyes open for unexpected encounters awaiting you here. Like a Zebra Shark lying on the sandy bottom, seemingly undisturbed by your presence. I guess that gives you an idea why we love it here, while we maximize our exploration time in the Wild West of Papua. We are doing several full trips here, and Triton Bay will become an annual adventure for us around this time of year.
Exploring the seascapes along the West coast of the Bird’s Head of Papua, re-visiting what we discovered earlier, and finding new sites as we go. Right now we are off to the second leg of our current film expedition, all is ready to leave the dock, and there is a buzz of excitement on board. Come join us soon!
If you’re looking for a destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures, the wild west of Papua should be at the top of your list. With these 7 incredible experiences waiting for you, your journey here will be nothing short of extraordinary. Don’t miss the chance to start your adventure today!
West of Papua
West of Papua is a region known for its extraordinary biodiversity and rich cultural heritage. This area is home to untouched rainforests, towering mountain ranges, and vibrant coral reefs that are among the most pristine in the world. The indigenous communities living in West of Papua have preserved unique traditions and deep knowledge of the land, passed down through generations.
In recent years, West of Papua has gained attention as an emerging destination for eco-tourism. Researchers, nature lovers, and international travelers are drawn to its raw natural beauty and ecological significance. Local governments and environmental organizations have begun promoting conservation efforts in West of Papua to protect its ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism.
Despite its vast potential, West of Papua faces several challenges, including limited infrastructure and complex social and political issues. Collaborative efforts among the government, local communities, and international partners are essential to ensure that development in West of Papua is both equitable and sustainable. With the right approach, the region could become a model for development that respects both culture and nature.
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Cheers,
Alex
NOTE :
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