We will meet you upon arrival in Manokwari, the capital city of West Papua Province, located in the Bird’s Head of New Guinea Island. Manokwari is a friendly town in a bay where you can find Mansinam Island. Known as the ‘holy island’ since Christianity was first introduced here to the Papuan’s in 1855 by 2 german missionaries. A city tour around Manokwari will bring you to Mansinam island which is just a short boat trip away from town. Additionally, you will visit the traditional market where many Papuan woman sell their home grown like vegetables, fruits and the well-known betel nut. Chewing betel nut is part of the traditional Papuan culture and you will soon notice the red stained lips and teeth of the local men and women. You will stay the night in the friendly Mansinam Beach hotel with beautiful views towards the bay, Mansinam Island and in the background the Arfak Mountains.
In the morning you will leave by 4-wheel drive jeeps to the rough mountainous terrains of the Arfak Mountains. We drive on the mountain ridges and the jungle fog will often embrace the valleys below us.
We will stay in a simple lodge, a perfect base-camp for further exploration of the thick rainforests surrounding us. The lodge has a beautiful flowery environment and is located in a local village in Mokwam Area. If you are not so much into birding, your guide can take you on a walk to see more of the local life of the mountain people. But most come here to explore the sites of several endemic bird species. Like the Western Parotia, Magnificent Bird of Paradise and if lucky the Supurb Bird of Paradise. For all these locations you will need to hide in a blind and walk approx 40 – 1 hour through the jungle. The area of Mokwam has been visited by many documentary film makers like those from National Geographic.
Highlights:
- The Western Parotia who also belongs to the Bird of Paradise Group. The male Western Parotia is a fantastic dancer! He shows a ballerina-like dance with its plumes expanded like a skirt! During his funny and spectacular dance he rapidly moves his head as if he had a bit too much to drink. He has 3 head-wires behind each eyes and a black plumage. The female that likes his moves, will choose him to mate with.
- The Magnificent Bird of Paradise has yellow wings and a green breast shield with blue feet. With its complex curved plumage it is as unique as its fellow males Birds of Paradise.
- The Supurb Bird of Paradise is a bit more difficult to spot. But the lucky ones will not be disappointed when they see his – bouncy ‘smiley face’ dance routine.
In the morning you can still explore the area with your guide. After lunch you will head back to Manokwari. There you will stay in Aston Niu hotel with beautiful views from the swimming pool towards the Arfak mountains and the pacific ocean.
You will be transferred to the airport.
