Thelandofpapua.com – Papua has emerged as a dream tourism destination for both domestic and international travelers. Its untouched and stunning natural beauty has captured the world’s attention. As an Indonesian native, it would be a shame to miss out on visiting this extraordinary place.

Beyond the famous Raja Ampat, there are many other tourist spots with strong appeal. One such gem is Lake Sentani in Jayapura City. Not only is it a fun place to visit, but it also hosts the annual Sentani Lake Festival. What makes this lake and its festival so special? Let’s explore!

Dozens of Small Islands Around

Lake Sentani is breathtaking on its own, featuring around 22 small islands, each offering unique scenery. Imagine having numerous vantage points to enjoy the natural beauty when visiting these islands. You can even experience a motorboat ride by renting one from the locals.

Some islands offer accommodation rentals if you wish to spend the night. You’ll be greeted in the morning by the lake’s refreshing and calming atmosphere.

Colorful Yoboi Village

Your visit isn’t limited to natural attractions; you can also enjoy cultural tourism by visiting Yoboi Village. This village on the lake is known for having the largest sago plantation in Indonesia.

Besides interacting with the locals, you’ll be amazed at how they decorate their homes and public facilities. The most striking feature is the colorful main wooden bridge.

Stunning Hills

The lake is surrounded by green hills that captivate from a distance. Often referred to as the Teletubbies Hills because of their vast, fresh green, and undulating landscape, they offer a scenic view.

If you visit in the afternoon, prepare for the beautiful sunset that enhances the grass and lake’s surface colors. To reach the hilltop, bring basic hiking gear to make the climb easier. It’s a simple hike but filled with beautiful memories of nature, especially if you go with friends.

Diverse Endemic Fish Species

With its calm waters, Lake Sentani boasts rich biodiversity. The lake quietly houses various freshwater species. If you’re lucky, you might encounter four endemic fish species found only in Lake Sentani: the Sentani Goby (Oxyeleotris heterodon), the Sentani Rainbowfish (Chilatherina sentaniensis), the Red Rainbowfish (Glossolepis incisus), and the Sawfish (Pristis microdon). Some of these species are endangered, so make sure to be careful and avoid taking them if you spot them.

Unique Local Painting Art

As previously mentioned, the many islands around the lake offer various attractions. One island with a strong appeal is Asei Island. Besides its beautiful scenery, this island is home to artists whose works make excellent souvenirs.

Asei Island artists create beautiful paintings on Papua’s unique tree bark. Common motifs include iconic Papuan fauna and various meaningful spiral combinations.

Sentani Lake Festival

A unique attraction that you can only experience once a year is the Sentani Lake Festival. This event aims to preserve cultural values and local wisdom while boosting the coastal community’s economy.

The festival starts with a fishing ban for a few days, followed by communal fishing before the traditional ceremony. You’ll witness the unique fishing traditions of Lake Sentani.

The traditional ceremony includes the vibrant Isosolo dance performed on boats, a spirited war dance. You can also see the coronation of tribal chiefs, involving five tribal leaders or Kose in Jayapura. Besides the cultural festivities, you can savor various traditional Papuan dishes showcased at the event. Intriguing, isn’t it?

Plan Your Visit to Lake Sentani

Lake Sentani offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, Lake Sentani has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Indonesia’s most captivating destinations!