Maibri Birding Ecolodge

Maibri Birding Ecolodge
Nestled in the breathtaking Arfak Mountains, Maibri Birding Ecolodge is a hidden gem just a two-hour drive from Manokwari. This charming lodge is situated in the picturesque village of Kampung Maibri, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes.

Our eco-lodge features three beautifully appointed rooms, accommodating up to six guests. Each room is designed for comfort, offering a serene retreat after a day of exploration. Guests can savor delectable meals crafted by our talented professional chef, Mrs. Celly, who uses fresh, local ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that celebrate the flavors of the region.

Visitors will appreciate our clean facilities, which include hot water showers, ensuring a refreshing experience after a day spent in nature. Maibri Birding Ecolodge is not just a place to stay; it's an inviting sanctuary where you can unwind and connect with the stunning environment of the Arfak Mountains.

Managed by Sultan Birding Indonesia, with the invaluable assistance of resident Niko, our lodge embodies a spirit of community. Together, we have established an ecotourism initiative that fosters strong ties with the local people while promoting the protection of the surrounding forests. The presence of bird watchers and photographers is vital to the villagers’ livelihoods, leading to a shared commitment to safeguard these pristine landscapes.

Whether you’re an avid birder or simply seeking to immerse yourself in nature, Maibri Birding Ecolodge is the perfect base for your adventures in this enchanting region. Explore the vibrant forest trails in the early morning or late afternoon, and experience the rich biodiversity that the Arfak Mountains have to offer.

Guest’s review
In November 2023 we visited Arfak Mountains in West Papua and stayed in Maibri Birding Ecolodge for 5 nights. If you want to have views of the Birds-of-Paradise of David Attenborough quality, this is the place to be. It takes some patience because you stay in hides for hours, but the sight of dancing Vogelkop Lophorina and Magnificent Bird-of-Paradise will last forever. The forest where they live is beautiful and hosts a lot more biodiversity, although birding is not easy. The lodge itself is basic but clean and comfortable. It’s situated directly on the main road on the edge of a small Papuan village near the forest. You can both interact with the friendly people who live here and at the same time enjoy nature (my moth net attracted hundreds of beautiful moth species at night). Everything is within a radius of not more than 3 km, so you don’t waste time traveling.

Maibri Birding Ecolodge
Birds might be seen in Maibri Village, Arfak Mountains, West Papua:
Glossy-mantled, Crinkle-collared, Trumpet Manucode, Vogelkop Lophorina (Superb Bird of Paradise), Black-billed Sicklebill, Magnificent Riflebird, Lesser Bird-of-paradise, Western Parotia, Magnificent Bird of Paradise, Masked bowerbird, Vogelkop Bowerbird, Greater Sooty Owl, Papuan Boobook, Feline Owlet-nightjar, Mountain Owlet-nightjar, Papuan Hawk-Owl, Marbled Frogmouth, Papuan Frogmouth, Arfak Catbird, Vogelkop Melidectes, Ornate Melidectes, Vogelkop Scrubwren, Grey-green Scrubwren, Long-tailed Honey Buzzard, Sultan's Cuckoo-Dove, Ornate, Superb, Claret-breasted, and Orange-bellied Fruit Dove, Pinon's Imperial Pigeon, Papuan Mountain Pigeon, Moustached Treeswift, Blyth's Hornbill, Palm, and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Pesquet's, Eclectus and Blue-collared Parrot, Masked Bowerbird, Obscure Berrypecker, Mountain Peltops, Black-bellied Cicadabird, Rusty Whistler, Northern Variable Pitohui, Black-winged Monarch, Torrent-lark, Grey Crow, Black-chinned Robin, Torrent Flyrobin, and Olive-crowned Flowerpecker, Variable Goshawk, Sultan's Cuckoo-Dove, Bar-tailed Cuckoo-Dove, Great Cuckoo-Dove, Mountain Fruit Dove, Whiteeared Bronze Cuckoo, Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo, Plum-faced and Yellow-billed Lorikeet, White-shouldered Fairywren, Western Smoky Honeyeater, Red-collared Myzomela, Brown-breasted Gerygone, Grey Thornbill, Mid-mountain Berrypecker, Spectacled Longbill, Black-breasted Boatbill, Sclater's Whistler, Black Fantail, Black Monarch, Blue-grey Robin, Canary Flyrobin, Island Leaf Warbler, Capped White-eye, and Streak-headed Munia, New Guinea and Pygmy Eagle, Collared Sparrowhawk, Metallic Pigeon, Pesquet's Parrot, Blue-collared Parrot, Pygmy Lorikeet, Fairy Lorikeet, Josephine's Lorikeet, Thick-billed Berrypecker, Mottled Berryhunter, Papuan Grassbird, New Guinea White-eye, Blue-faced Parrotfinch, Papuan Parrotfinch, Gray's Grasshopper Warbler, Wattled Brushturkey, White-tipped Forest Rail, Cinnamon Dove, Bronze Ground Dove, Mountain Mouse-warbler, Spotted Jewel-babbler, Ashy Robin, Green-backed Robin, Lesser Ground Robin, Wattled Brushturkey, Whitestriped Forest Rail, Stephan's Emerald Dove, Cinnamon Ground Dove, Pacific Koel, Rusty Mouse-warbler, Pale-billed Scrubwren, Green-backed Robin, New Guinea Bronzewing, Superb Fruit Dove, Wallace's Fairywren, Long-billed, and Marbled Honeyeater, Red, Papuan Black, and Mountain Myzomela, Mountain Honeyeater, Goldenface, Fairy Gerygone, Yellow-bellied Longbill, Chestnut-backed Jewel-babbler, Vogelkop Whistler, Sclater's Whistler, Arafura Shrikethrush, Hooded Pitohui, Rufous-backed Fantail, Drongo Fantail, Black-winged Monarch, Frilled Monarch, White-faced Robin, White-rumped Robin, Papuan Scrub Robin, Yellow-legged Flyrobin, and Black-fronted White-eye, Wattled Brushturkey, New Guinea Eagle, Ornate Fruit Dove, Rufescent Imperial Pigeon, Rufous-throated Bronze Cuckoo, Fan-tailed Cuckoo, Red-breasted Pygmy Parrot, Brehm's and Modest Tiger Parrot, Papuan Lorikeet, Papuan Treecreeper, Orange-crowned Fairywren, Rufous-sided Honeyeater, Olive Straightbill, Black-throated Honeyeater, Cinnamon-browed Melidectes, Mountain Mouse-warbler, Perplexing Scrubwren, Papuan Logrunner, Fan-tailed, Tit Berrypecker, Spotted Jewel-babbler, Mottled Berryhunter, Papuan Sittella, Rufous-naped Bellbird, Black Pitohui, Regent Whistler, Friendly, and Dimorphic Fantail, Lesser Melampitta, Ashy, Black-throated, Smoky Robin, Garnet Robin, Lesser Ground Robin, Archbold's Nightjar, Black-mantled Goshawk, Meyer's Goshawk, Collared Sparrowhawk, Mountain Swiftlet, and Great Woodswallow, New Guinea Eagle, Pheasant Pigeon, Moluccan King Parrot, Papuan Pitta, Masked Bowerbird, Wallace's Fairywren, Green-backed Honeyeater, Spotted Honeyeater, Tawny-breasted Honeyeater, Chestnut-backed Jewel-babbler, Stout-billed Cuckooshrike, Piping Bellbird, Rusty, Vogelkop, Grey Whistler, Northern Variable Pitohui, Chestnut-bellied Fantail, Rufous-backed Fantail, Black-winged Monarch, Frilled Monarch, Grey Crow, White-faced Robin, White-rumped Robin, Papuan Scrub Robin, Vogelkop Owlet-nightjar.
(Please note that Long-tailed Paradigalla, Arfak Astrapia, and Black Sicklebill an optional trips at an extra cost because of their location in another village).

Our Lodge and Crew

Since 2017, we have been steadily developing the Arfak Mountains, with a particular emphasis on collaborating with the local community. One of our proudest achievements is the construction of a charming local guesthouse, a project that has transformed the hospitality landscape in Kampung Maibri, or Maibri Village. Before our arrival, there were no lodging options available in this beautiful region, but together with the community, we successfully built a welcoming guesthouse.

Currently, our guesthouse features three well-appointed rooms, each equipped with two comfortable beds, an en-suite bathroom, and a hot shower to provide a cozy retreat for our guests after a day of exploration. While there are now several guesthouses in the area, we take pride in offering top-notch facilities that stand out in the Arfak Mountains. To enhance our guests' experience, we have brought in a skilled chef from the city, ensuring that every meal meets high culinary standards.

With a growing interest from bird photographers and travelers eager to explore the breathtaking Arfak Mountains, we are excited to announce the development of a second guesthouse, the Maibri Birding Ecolodge. This initiative is being undertaken in partnership with the local community and aims to provide seamless accommodations for our visitors.

Our efforts not only boost tourism but also significantly contribute to the economic development of the local community, as residents benefit from the income generated by every guest who stays with us, including those from other tour operators. Together, we are fostering a sustainable tourism model that uplifts the community while allowing visitors to experience the unique beauty of the Arfak Mountains

Chef Celly
Celly is an integral part of our team in the picturesque Arfak Mountains. She takes great pride in overseeing the culinary experiences of our guests at Maibri Birding Ecolodge. Beyond her role as a chef, Celly serves as a vital link to the warm-hearted residents of Maibri Village, ensuring an authentic cultural experience for our visitors. Guests are treated to an array of delectable dishes, skillfully prepared by our talented chef Celly, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Each meal is a delightful celebration of regional flavors, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the area. Having journeyed from Manado, Celly brings not only her culinary expertise but also a genuine passion for hospitality. Her bright smile and friendly demeanor create a welcoming atmosphere, making every guest's stay a truly memorable one. Whether savoring a dish or engaging in lively conversation, Celly ensures that each experience at our lodge is filled with warmth and joy.

The Driver
Ridzuan is our highly experienced four-wheel driver based in Manokwari, a pivotal figure in managing our logistics and transportation to the stunning Arfak Mountains. With an extensive knowledge of the region, he has established a strong rapport with the local tribe in Kampung Maibri, fostering trust and respect that enhances our operations. Recognized as a well-known driver throughout Manokwari, Ridzuan possesses an intimate understanding of the local routes, ensuring safe and efficient travels through sometimes challenging terrain. His local connections are invaluable, as they help him navigate the area with ease and facilitate smooth interactions with community members. In addition to his driving duties, Ridzuan plays a crucial role in managing our accommodations at the lodge in Maibri Village. He meticulously checks the room facilities, ensuring everything is in optimal condition for our guests' comfort. His dedication extends to overseeing the food supply, making sure that meals are plentiful and meet our clients' preferences. Ridzuan goes above and beyond by making frequent trips between Manokwari town and the Arfak Mountains, all to ensure that any needs or requests from our clients are promptly addressed. When clients arrive at Manokwari Airport, they can expect a warm welcome from Ridzuan, who greets them with a genuine smile. His careful driving and friendly demeanor make the journey to our lodge at Kampung Maibri not just safe, but also enjoyable. Understand a bit of English, Ridzuan effectively communicates with our guests, ensuring that their experience is not only smooth but also enriched by his local insights and personable nature. His helpfulness and positive attitude truly embody the spirit of our service.

THE LAND OWNER OF KAMPUNG MAIBRI, ARFAK MOUNTAINS, WEST PAPUA
Niko is a pivotal figure in Kampung Maibri, known for his warm demeanor and unwavering helpfulness. As the future chef of Maibri Village, he embodies the spirit of hospitality that the community cherishes. With a deep connection to the land, Niko hails from a family that owns the lush forests surrounding Kampung Maibri, a treasure trove of biodiversity. A true advocate for eco-tourism, Niko is passionately committed to collaborating with us on the development of the Maibri Birding Ecolodge. He has taken the initiative to organize various aspects of the village's ecological ventures, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Niko’s resourcefulness is evident in his construction of bird hides and well-maintained trails, which significantly enhance access for our clients to witness the area's astonishing birdlife.

Beyond his organizational skills, Niko is a diligent worker known for his keen, observant nature. His sharp eyes can effortlessly spot the vibrant bird species that flit through the jungle, making each birding expedition an unforgettable experience. With two homes to accommodate guests and open access to his family's prized land, Niko is not just a local; he is a dedicated partner in our mission to showcase the natural wonders of Maibri.

My story and My first time journey to Arfak Mountains

My first journey to the Arfak Mountains of West Papua
In 2016, Sultan Birding Tours successfully established the Arfak Birding Lodge, nestled in the stunning Mingre village within the majestic Arfak Mountains of Papua Barat. This enchanting lodge offers comfortable accommodations featuring well-appointed rooms, each equipped with hot water showers for a refreshing respite after a day of exploration. Guests can indulge in exquisite meals prepared with local ingredients, ensuring an authentic culinary experience amidst the breathtaking scenery. Our lodge serves as a perfect base for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing a serene escape into the heart of one of Indonesia's most captivating landscapes.

My first encounter with the enchanting region of West Papua took place in 2016, sparked by whispers of the breathtaking Wilson’s bird-of-paradise residing on the idyllic island of Waigeo. Eager to witness this marvel, I boarded a flight to Sorong, venturing into the unknown without a familiar face in sight. Despite my apprehensions about navigating a place I had never been, the allure of Waigeo long celebrated as a diving paradise in Raja Ampat, filled me with anticipation.

Upon my arrival, the vibrant local culture welcomed me, and I quickly forged connections with the community, who guided me to prime spots for birdwatching on the island. With their help, I embarked on a short expedition through Sorong and Waigeo, immersing myself in the stunning natural beauty that surrounded me. Over a year spent in Waigeo, I captured countless photographs of the Wilson’s bird of paradise and its stunning cousin, the red bird of paradise.

Each image I shared on Facebook became a window into West Papua's rich avian life, igniting curiosity and interest among my friends and followers. This endeavor marked the beginning of a growing fascination for many, drawing them to explore the captivating world of Birds of Paradise in this untouched paradise.

I have a friend who works as a birding tour operator in China, and we’ve collaborated since 2014 on birdwatching and bird photography adventures in Sulawesi, Halmahera, and Bali. After seeing the enthusiastic responses to the photos I shared on Facebook, he proposed that I organize a bird photography trip to the vibrant landscapes of West Papua, driven by the increasing requests from his clients to witness the extraordinary Birds of Paradise.

At that time, the idea of arranging a trip to Papua seemed daunting. The distance was greater than I had ever ventured, even beyond Waigeo, and the region felt shrouded in mystery. Papua, in our minds, was perceived as isolated and intimidating, a stark contrast to the familiarity of other Indonesian regions. I knew very little about the island beyond Waigeo, and my apprehension grew as I considered the safety concerns that surrounded travel to Papua, which worried my family.

After several in-depth discussions with both my friend and my family, I decided to take the plunge. In April 2016, fueled by excitement yet cautious preparation, I embarked on an adventurous journey to the enchanting land of West Papua. My primary goal was to scout ideal locations for viewing the elusive Birds of Paradise and secure accommodations for our expedition.

The first destination on my itinerary was the quaint village of Mingre, nestled within the breathtaking Arfak Mountains. I had learned about this hidden gem from a local guide whose details I stumbled upon in a trip report online. As I set out for Mingre, I felt a mix of anxiety and exhilaration, imagining the stunning natural beauty and unique avian life that awaited me in this remote part of the world.

Upon arriving in the Arfak mountains, I was immediately captivated by the stunning natural beauty that surrounded me and the warm hospitality of the local people. Contrary to the 'scary' image I had formed in my mind, the residents welcomed me with open arms and genuine smiles. Their kindness made me feel at home, even as I adjusted to the cool temperatures of the high-altitude region, sitting at 1,800 meters above sea level.

While challenges and unexpected situations emerged throughout my stay, none could dampen my enthusiasm or determination. My focus was set on successfully establishing bird tourism spots in the enchanting village of Mingre.

After conducting thorough surveys and collaborating closely with the local community to designate prime bird-watching areas, we eagerly ventured to the hides where the elusive Bird of Paradise and other extraordinary species could be spotted. The Arfak mountains remain largely untouched by modernization, adding to their allure. However, our adventures were not without discomfort; upon our arrival, we discovered there were no lodgings or guesthouses available. We had no choice but to sleep on makeshift layers of wooden boards in the traditional homes of the villagers. This experience took a toll on my health, leaving me unwell for several days.

Despite these trials, the journey through the breathtaking landscapes and the connection with the local people is a memory I will cherish forever.

After several days of immersing myself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Hides of the Birds of Paradise and scouting potential sites for guesthouses, I made my way back to the vibrant city of Manado. It was June 2016 when I returned to the enchanting village of Mingre, where I eagerly commenced the construction of the guesthouses at a location that had garnered the enthusiastic approval of the local community.

With great care, we transported a wide array of essential supplies—from sturdy building materials to comfortable beds and reliable bathwater heaters—from the bustling City of Manokwari. The journey may have been long, but it was filled with unforgettable moments that etched themselves into my memory, each mile bringing me closer to this beautiful venture.

The construction of the inn was a whirlwind, taking only a month to complete. By July 2016, anticipation filled the air as the first group of bird photographers from China arrived in the picturesque Arfak Mountains, ready to capture the wonders of this unique ecosystem. Everything unfolded seamlessly according to our meticulously crafted plans.

Now, in 2020, our commitment remains as strong as ever. We continue to work hand in hand with the local community, nurturing and enhancing the rich tapestry of tourism in this magnificent Arfak region. We hope that future generations, our children and grandchildren, will inherit this marvel. We dream that the breathtaking Bird of Paradise, along with countless other bird species throughout Papua, will thrive for years to come, allowing everyone to delight in their beauty and preserve the harmony of nature's grandeur.

I often find myself pondering the reasons behind my desire to arrange a trip to the enigmatic West Papua. Why not explore other islands like Sulawesi, Java, Borneo, or Flores, where travel might be far more convenient? Many of my friends have expressed similar concerns, questioning why I would willingly venture into a region known for its challenges. Yet, the answer lies deep within my passion for nature and photography.

My primary motivation stems from my aspiration to photograph the magnificent bird of paradise. This extraordinary bird, with its vibrant plumage and intricate courtship dances, captivates anyone fortunate enough to witness its splendor. Additionally, a special request from a group of Chinese guests, eager to experience the rare beauty of these creatures that remain largely undiscovered by the outside world, has further fueled my determination.

The first time I laid eyes on a bird of paradise in the lush landscapes of Waigeo, I was utterly enchanted. Its dazzling colors and graceful movements evoked a sense of wonder that I had never encountered before. As a photographer, I felt an overwhelming urge to seize this divine opportunity and capture the essence of such beauty through my lens.

Moreover, my longstanding passion for birding and the potential I see in developing sustainable tourism in the remarkable Arfak region drive me forward. I believe in the importance of ecological preservation and the positive impact that responsible tourism can have on local communities. Over the years, the warm embrace and kindness of the people in this unique part of the world have made me feel like a member of their family. It is with this deep connection that I aspire to contribute, however small, to uplifting the local economy and ensuring prosperity in the Arfak region while sharing its hidden wonders with the world.

In 2016, I made a pivotal decision that I will never regret: I embarked on a journey from Waigeo towards the majestic Arfak Mountains, nestled in the enchanting land of Papua. As I took that first step, a mix of excitement and trepidation filled my heart. The path ahead was fraught with challenges beyond my control, yet I stood proud—determined to forge my way.

Leaving behind my beloved family was one of the hardest sacrifices I've ever made. There were months when my travels kept me away from home for extended periods, and those rare moments spent with my family became precious commodities. However, the distance only fueled my resolve to achieve the goals I had set for myself. I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my family; their understanding of my profession offers me solace and assurance, even when we are far apart.

For over two decades, my life's mission has been to uplift communities through the world of tourism, and my experiences in Papua have deepened my understanding of the work that remains. I’ve come to appreciate the urgent need for collective action to enhance the welfare of indigenous Papuans in West Papua. Each step I take in this beautiful land reveals opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the local economy, and that realization fills me with pride.

My commitment to this cause does not end here. Looking ahead, there is still an abundance of work to be done, driven by my hope to enrich the lives of local people while preserving this region's extraordinary biodiversity, particularly the iconic Birds of Paradise and the unique Arfak endemic birds.

As the founder of Sultan Birding, the first local birding tour operator in West Papua, I am dedicated to involving local communities in every facet of the birding industry. This initiative benefits the people of the Arfak Highlands and fosters a culture of environmental stewardship. At Sultan Birding, we uphold a strong conservation ethic, providing both environmental education and tangible benefits to the local communities. Together, we can protect the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness of this remarkable land.

Please note that after the pandemic was over, in 2021, I moved to Kampung Maibri to set up a new Maibri Birding Ecolodge with the local called Niko, so now our clients will stay at Maibri Birding Ecolodge, Arfak Mountains of West Papua.