Papua Birdwatching

Overview

Papua birding packages start from Nimbokrang in Jayapura, Arfak Mountains, and Waigeo Islands.
Papua Birding Trip in the 15-day trip costs US$  per person
Price packages included    

1. Accommodations during the trip
2. Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
3. Mineral water
4. Car transport
5. Public Express Boat Sorong – Waigeo - Sorong
6. English Speaking Bird Guide
7. Entrances fee to the bird hide, Location
8. Local Bird Guides, Local Landowners, Land Bird’s Location
9. Meals for camera porters    

Price packages did not include:

1. internal or domestic flight tickets and Luggage fees
2. Camera porters IDR 300.000 per day
3. Juices and Beers
4. Travel Insurance and Optional Trip
5. Tips to drivers, local guides, and land owners and any expenditures incurred due to flight cancellation/delays or other causes beyond our control. 

For booking inquiries, please reach out to us via email at info@papuabirding.com. We kindly ask that you make your reservations in advance to ensure that we can accommodate your preferred dates and times. Early booking helps us guarantee availability and plan for your needs, so we appreciate your understanding. Thank you!

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Sentani - Journey to Nimbokrang
Your adventure begins with your morning arrival at Jayapura Airport, where you will be greeted and transferred by car on a scenic journey directly to Nimbokrang. The drive lasts approximately an hour and a half, allowing you to soak in the lush landscapes of Papua. Upon arrival in Nimbokrang, we’ll embark on an exciting quest to locate our main target: the magnificent King Bird of Paradise. Set out around 1:30 PM, we’ll trek for about 40 minutes along a winding path, immersing ourselves in the vibrant sounds and sights of the surrounding rainforest. We’ll remain at our chosen spot until the late afternoon, hoping to catch a glimpse of this stunning bird in its natural habitat. As dusk settles, we’ll return to our cozy guesthouse, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Overnight accommodations will be in Nimbokrang.

Day 2: Exploring Nimbokrang  
Awaken early at 4:30 AM and indulge in a warm breakfast to fuel your day of exploration. Our next destination takes us to the Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise hide. After a hearty meal, we’ll set off for a 35-minute walk from the parking area, navigating through the lush foliage until we reach the hide. We’ll spend time here until 7:30 AM, eagerly awaiting the breathtaking display of the birds. Afterward, we’ll make our way to the Lesser Bird of Paradise Lek, which requires a 25-minute walk along a trail that challenges us with its undulating terrain and muddy patches. The morning will be filled with the thrill of birdwatching as we observe the vibrant behaviors of these avian wonders until lunchtime. Following our return to the guesthouse for a delicious midday meal, the afternoon holds more adventures in store.

Day 3: Nimbokrang - Sentani  
On our final morning in the enchanting Nimbokrang, we rise early at 4:30 AM, eager to savor a hearty breakfast and embark on our last adventure to witness the mesmerizing Lesser Bird of Paradise. The dawn chorus fills the air as we venture to our viewing spot, soaking in the beauty of the rainforest alive with vibrant colors and sounds. We linger there until lunchtime, captivated by the exquisite displays of this rare bird. After relishing a delightful lunch, we prepare for our journey back to Sentani, filled with memories of our extraordinary encounters. That night, we settled in for a restful overnight stay in Sentani, reflecting on our experiences.

Day 4: Sentani - Manokwari - Maibri Birding Ecolodge Arfak
Upon our arrival at Manokwari Airport, a rugged 4WD vehicle awaits us to transport us to the majestic Arfak Mountains. The drive takes about two hours, winding through lush landscapes and picturesque views that set the stage for our birding adventure. Before lunch, we stop at a renowned feeding station for the Young Western Parotia, a true gem of the Avifauna. A short trek down a trail from the main road leads us to a camouflaged hide, where anticipation hangs in the air. Here, we may be fortunate enough to catch glimpses of several stunning species, including the elegant female Magnificent Bird of Paradise, the attractive male and female Black-billed Sicklebills, and the stunning female Lesser Bird of Paradise. Occasionally, the elusive Greenback Robin makes an appearance, thrilling those lucky enough to spot it.

At 11:30 AM, we return to the cozy guesthouse for a well-deserved lunch, fueling up for the rest of the day. After a brief respite, we set out again at 1:30 PM for another excursion to the hide where the Magnificent Bird of Paradise resides. We remain there until 5:00 PM, immersed in the wonder of nature and the vibrant display of colors as the day winds down. Finally, we return to the guesthouse, where dinner awaits, providing the perfect end to an exhilarating day filled with remarkable birding experiences.

Day 5: Arfak Maibri Birding Ecolodge
As dawn breaks, the day begins with breakfast served promptly at 05:00 am, filling the air with the enticing aroma of fresh coffee and local delicacies. By 05:30, we embark on a journey to the Western Parotia hide. The path is a captivating 20 to 30-minute walk through lush foliage, where the sounds of chirping birds greet us as we make our way through the serene forest. 

At 11:00 am, we return to the guesthouse for a well-deserved lunch, savoring delicious meals that showcase the region’s flavors. Following our break, at 01:30 pm, we set out again, this time towards the captivating Vogelkop Bowerbird area. This destination requires an eager 20-minute trek from the main road, where we hope to witness the enchanting courtship displays of these remarkable birds.  As the sun begins to set, indicating the end of our day’s adventures, we make our way back to the guesthouse by 05:00 pm for a delightful dinner. The enchanting atmosphere of Arfak surrounds us as we unwind after a day filled with nature's wonders, before settling in for the night.

Day 6: Arfak Maibri Birding Ecolodge
The rhythm of the day repeats as we rise at the same early hour. Breakfast awaits us at 05:00 am, providing fuel for another adventure. By 05:30, we’re off again, this time heading to witness the extraordinary Superb Bird of Paradise. The walk to our destination is slightly more challenging, involving a climb and descent over approximately 30 minutes through the vibrant landscape.

We’re graced by the presence of these stunning birds until 11:00 am, fully immersed in the sights and sounds of their habitat. After another fulfilling lunch back at the guesthouse, we prepare for an exciting afternoon packed with more birding adventures, eager to explore the beauty that the Arfak region has to offer.

Day 7: Arfak Maibri Birding Ecolodge
As dawn breaks over the stunning Arfak Mountains, we’ll savor a hearty breakfast that fuels our excitement for the day ahead. Our primary focus today will be the elusive Masked Bowerbird, known for its intricate courtship behaviors and vibrant plumage. We’ll spend the morning in serene anticipation, exploring the lush surroundings until lunchtime, keenly observing their activities and capturing them on camera. In the afternoon, we’ll return to the Young Western Parotia hide for one final opportunity to witness this extraordinary bird in its natural habitat, soaking in the beauty of its striking displays.

Day 8: Arfak Maibri Birding Ecolodge - Manokwari
On our last morning waking at 5:00 AM in this picturesque mountain retreat, the air is filled with the sweet melodies of awakening birds. Our final destination in this avian adventure is the Magnificent Bird of Paradise—a breathtaking sight that never fails to astound. We will spend the morning immersed in the wonders of this spectacular bird, observing its vibrant colors and remarkable courtship dances. By 11:00 AM, we’ll reluctantly head back to the guesthouse for a well-deserved lunch, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences we've shared. Afterward, we will prepare for our journey back to Manokwari, where we’ll stay overnight at a comfortable hotel, resting before our flight to Sorong the next day.

Day 9: Manokwari - Sorong
Our journey begins with a flight from Manokwari to Sorong, departing at either 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM. The flight takes approximately 55 to 60 minutes, soaring over the stunning landscapes of West Papua. Once we arrive in Sorong, a delicious lunch will be served at our hotel, featuring local flavors that are a treat for the palate. 

In the afternoon, we will embark on a short adventure to the Mangrove Safari Park. We'll travel by car through the lush scenery, keeping an eye out for the elusive Blue-black Kingfisher amidst the trees. This natural gem offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of the region before we return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner will follow at a charming restaurant, where we can indulge in freshly caught seafood delights, savoring the flavors of the ocean in this vibrant coastal city.

Day 10: Sorong - Waigeo
Our day begins at 9:00 AM as we set off on a thrilling two-hour sail aboard an express boat to the idyllic Waigeo/Waisai Island. The crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands will make this journey truly memorable. Upon our arrival at Waigeo Island, we will be seamlessly transferred to our resort, where we will be staying for the next three nights in a picturesque setting surrounded by nature.

To reach the resort, we’ll enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive or a swift 15-minute ride on a speedboat, both of which offer splendid views of the coastline. In the afternoon, we can take a stroll around the village, immersing ourselves in the local culture and indulging in some birdwatching. The rich avian life of Waigeo promises an exciting experience for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Day 11 - 13: Waigeo Island
Nestled in the heart of Raja Ampat, Waigeo Island is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to numerous species that are absent from the mainland. Over the next three days, our adventure will be centered around one of the island's most captivating inhabitants: the mesmerizing Wilson’s Bird-of-paradise. Renowned for its flamboyant plumage and intricate courtship rituals, this bird is often hailed as one of the most stunning in the world.

To observe this avian marvel, we will utilize specially constructed hides, offering us a front-row seat to nature’s spectacle. As dawn breaks, we’ll quietly settle into our hides, allowing the breathtaking surroundings to come alive. We hope to witness the male in all his glory—a vibrant display of color, sound, and movement—as he calls and showcases his remarkable plumage to attract any curious females venturing into his display arena. 

Alongside the enchanting Wilson’s Bird-of-paradise, Waigeo boasts an array of unique avian species that we will be on the lookout for. Among them is the striking Red Bird-of-paradise, endemic to the island, the elusive Raja Ampat Pitohui, and the dignified Western Crowned Pigeon, which tends to shy away from human presence.

To make the most of our trip, we’ll need to embrace the early mornings. Each day, we will rise with the sun, waking at 4:30 AM to enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on our birding escapades. By 5:00 AM, we’ll be hidden away, ready to witness the unforgettable displays of these extraordinary birds as the world around us begins to awaken. 

Day 14: Waigeo - Sorong  
Begin your day immersed in the vibrant sounds of nature as you embark on a morning of birdwatching. This enchanting experience will last until lunchtime, giving you the chance to observe the unique avian species that inhabit the lush landscapes of Waigeo. After soaking in the beauty of the environment, we will set sail back to Sorong at 2:00 PM, where you’ll enjoy the serene views of the open water. Upon arrival, you’ll check into a comfortable hotel for a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the adventures of the day.

Day 15: Sorong - Next Destination
As your journey concludes, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight from Sorong to Jakarta. From there, you’ll continue on to your next exciting destination. We highly recommend booking in advance to secure your travel arrangements. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email at info@papuabirding.com. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable adventure!