Waigeo Island: Exploring Blue River In The Middle Of The Forest

The beauty of Raja Ampat makes tourists willing to come to this area, even repeatedly. Waigeo Island or also called Amberi is one of the destination spots with charming views. To take this island you have to travel at least 65km from Papua. Most tourists prefer to depart from Sorong with a 3 hour trip by boat.

waigeo island

Waigeo Island, Home to Wildlife

wildlife waigeo island

Waigeo is one of the largest islands in Raja Ampat and home to a wide variety of wildlife. Some wildlife such as amphibian and reptile species are said to be found only in Waigeo. In this place, you can also observe the birds of paradise that roam a lot in the forest. Maleo Waigeo and Wilson’s Cenderawasih birds have striking and beautiful plumage colors. The Center for Natural Resources Conservation also approaches and empowers communities around the forest in order to preserve the wildlife on Waigeo Island.

Panorama Bawah Laut Pulau Waigeo

underwater waigeo island

Most ordinary people, only know the beauty of Raja Ampat. In fact, Waigeo Island has an amazing underwater panorama and is a favorite diving spot. The number of healthy growing corals and a variety of colorful marine life. Divers can also spot swarms of manta rays. For those of you who can’t dive, you can see the clarity of the sea while snorkeling.

Blue River in Mayalibit Bay East Waigeo

The river that flows in the Mayalibit Bay of East Waigeo is not blue but looks blue when viewed from a distance. Blue River is quite crowded with domestic and foreign tourists. Tourists only need 30 minutes from Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat Regency. To reach this tourist spot is very easy because it is close to Waisai with adequate lodging facilities.

 Festival Suling Tambur
Img Source: Kompasiana

Waigeo island’s customs and culture

Underwater panoramas and wildlife are not only tourist attractions. The customs and culture of the local people are very interesting for you to know. The tambourine flute festival is a community culture where they beat the drum, blow the bamboo flute and become majorettes.

Tourists can also go to the village of Arborek which is famous for its woven hats and bags. You also interact with the weavers and if you are lucky they will teach you how to do the weaving. Tourists can also take home hats, bags, or statues made of waterproof wood.

Waigeo island offers many opportunities for tourists to see the amazing natural and underwater beauty. Seeing the activities of the local community opens up knowledge of their daily life. Live onboard is one of the trendiest ways to explore the nature of Papua with comfortable and luxurious boat facilities.