Excursion to Rainforest of Sorong

Excursion to rainforest

A few days ago I organized an excursion tour to Sunbird Forest of Sorong city for 8 American visitors. They were on a trip to Raja Ampat for snorkeling and scuba diving. We left Swiss-belhotel at 05.30 for the forest by 2 cars. Our goal was to watch Yellow-faced Myna, Rainbow Bee-eater, and Oriental Dollarbird. Most of the participants had binoculars. I brought 2 binoculars and 1 spotting scope.

Rainbow Bee-eater

While we were hiking along the ridge of the forest, we were able to watch the above birds and some other species such as Black Sunbird, Olive-crowned Sunbird, Brahminy Kite, Blyth's Hornbill, and Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. The spotting scope greatly enhanced our birding experience.The weather was quite hot so, we had a long stop inside the forest near a river. There, the participants of the tour soaked their body inside a natural pool with a small waterfall continuously providing fresh water for pool.
I and two local people boil water for them to make coffee or tea. We had them with some traditional cakes, biscuits, as well as rambutan and banana fruits. After that we continued our trip to the main river where we watched Pinon Imperial Pigeon and Singing Starling.

Suddenly heavy rain started to fall. We decided to walk back to the main road again and return to the city.
For booking
Please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing the following button:

Also read:

• Birding in Minahasa Peninsula
• Birding in Sonder of Minahasa
• Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland

Hiking and Birdwatching in Sorong of West Papua

Visitors who travel to Raja Ampat will first have to fly to Sorong city. The city is located in mainland West Papua province of the Republic of Indonesia. I often receive questions from tourists whether there are other natural attractions around Sorong regency which they can see before or after visiting Raja Ampat islands.

Female Eclectus Parrot

The lowland forest in the suburb of Sorong regency is a new destination for tourists who want to explore the biodiversity of tropical rainforest. The forest is the natural habitat of birds, reptiles, insects, mammals and marsupials. I introduced it for the first time on the internet in November 2014.

A male Lesser Birds of Paradise (Paradisaea minor)

Birdwatching
Tropical birds of New Guinea that thrive in lowland rainforest can be seen in the valley. Shining flycatcher (Myagra alecto), Sulphur crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita), Pinon Imperial Pigion (Ducula pinon), Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus), Western crowned pigeon (Goura cristata), Blyth's hornbill (Rhyticeros plicatus), Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Pink-spotted Fruit Dove, Moustached Tree Swift, and Lesser birds of paradise (Paradisaea minor) are some of the many birds of New Guinea that visitors can watch while walking through the forest.

Western-crowned Pigeon

Hiking through the rainforest of Klasow valley is easy because the land is flat. However, the footpath to the display tree of Lesser Birds of Paradise is steep and slippery. It is approximately one hour on foot from the village. Visitors have to walk for at least 1 hour to reach the lek of the birds that is located near Klasow river.
Visitors can watch the birds in the mornings and in the evenings. Male lesser birds of paradise compete against one another to win the heart of female birds.

Lesser Birds of Paradise

When the weather is good, the courtship dance performance usually lasts for 3 hours from 6 to 9 a.m.
After watching the paradise birds, visitors could walk back to the village and do birdwatching along the way. Binoculars, spotting scopes and laser pointer will be very useful during the morning walk.

Leg-cramps and muscle pain are not very common among tourists, but there were some cases where  tourists experienced them. Dehydration, salt depletion and fatigue of long day walking on the trails caused these severe leg cramps. When these signs happened, I immediately stopped the hiking tour and returned to our guesthouse. In the jungle guesthouse, I served instant noodle and gave it to my client who suffered it.  The soup of the noodle contains salt that would reduce the cramps. The noodle soup resupplies her body with new electrolytes. To ease the soreness or pain in the muscles and joints, I gave gentle massage using coconut oil. I applied the oil on my palms, warmed them up and then gave relaxing massage to the tensed musles.
Massage also increased the flow of blood that brings nutrients and oxygen to underlying tissues. It relieved muscle tension, and stiffness. Birding could be continued around the clearing area of the forest.

Birding in the Forest Edge

The clearing area around the jungle village is a good place for birding in the afternoon particularly between 16.00 to 18.00 local time. Birds such as friarbird, moustached tree swift, large fig parrot, red cheek parrot, and black lorry often fly and perch in the nearby trees. Children in the village with their sharper eyes can spot birds in distant trees faster than most of the visitors.

Rufous-bellied Kookaburra

What you need to bring:

• Water shoes or trekking shoes and long sleeve clothing that will protect you from insect bites when you sleep. You also need t-shirt that is suitable for tropical climate that is usually hot during the day
• Torch
• Rain poncho
• Insect repellent lotion. Apply it on your skin, and the clothes that cover your body, including areas over your neck, armpits, chest, crotch and ankle. This is very important to protect you from tiny insects that can go through your clothes and bite your skin. 
• Bring binoculars or digital camera with super telephoto lens if you want to take pictures of the animals that live in the jungle.
• Extra batteries for your camera.

Itinerary of Rainforest Tour:
Day 1
Transfer from Sorong city to lowland forest of Sorong by 4WD pick-up car. You will stay in a guesthouse (basic accommodation) in the jungle. Birding can be done directly along the forest edge. After dinner, I or local villager will accompany you to have a night walk in the jungle to find wallaby. Sometimes Papuan frogmouth or fruit bat can be seen too. We will use flash or torch. If you are too tired to do the night walk, we could do it in the second night.
Day 2
Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will leave your camp to walk deeper into the jungle to explore its biodiversity. Deer, wild pigs and wallaby live in the jungle of the valley. Our targets for this morning are Lesser Birds of Paradise and Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise. If we are lucky, we could see them. At night, after dinner, local guide can accompany you to find cuscus possum that usually comes out at night to find food or to mate.
Day 3
We will go trekking and birding in the hill forest. Usually, Hooded Butcherbird, Western-crowned Pigeon, Black-capped Lory, Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher, Frilled Monarch and King Bird of Paradise.
Day 4
This is your last birding day, the easiest way to explore the forest is to walk around the forest through old logging tracks that are located near the village. Birds such as Pink-spotted Fruit Dove, Large Fig Parrot, Magnificent Riflebird, usually come to villagers' garden to find grains such as corn, peanuts and green beans. In the afternoon, 4WD pick up truck will transfer you back to Sorong city.

Road leading to Klaglass forest of Klasow valley

Costs:
This depends on the number of participants and duration of the tour. Traveling in a group of 3 or 4 people will make the price cheaper.

The Lowland forest is located in the west of Sorong city. Visitors need to rent a 4WD Pick-up truck to reach the valley. You could contact us if you want a more customized trips and different itinerary.

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland: A Guide for Nature Lovers

If you're planning a wildlife watching and photography trip to North Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tangkoko Nature Reserve and the Minahasa Highland should be at the very top of your itinerary. These two destinations offer a rare mix of lush rainforest hiking, endemic wildlife encounters, and breathtaking highland landscapes—making them perfect for hikers, birdwatchers, and eco-travelers.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about exploring these remarkable natural gems, including highlights, best hiking routes, unique wildlife species, and practical travel tips.

Sulawesi Hanging Parrot

Why Visit Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland?

North Sulawesi is one of Indonesia’s most biologically rich regions. Tangkoko’s lowland rainforest is home to some of the world’s most unusual species, while the Minahasa Highland offers cooler climates, volcanic peaks, and panoramic views of lakes, hills, and traditional villages. Together, they create a perfect combination of wildlife and scenic adventure.

Tangkoko Nature Reserve: Paradise for Hiking and Wildlife Watching

1. Overview

Located on the northeastern tip of Sulawesi, Tangkoko Nature Reserve spans over 8,700 hectares of forest. It is famous for its incredible biodiversity, especially species found nowhere else on Earth.

Best Time to VisEart

• Dry season: May–October
• Best for birdwatching: Early morning (6–9 AM) and late afternoon

2. Hiking in Tangkoko

The hiking trails in Tangkoko are accessible for all levels, with routes ranging from easy forest walks to longer treks deeper into the reserve.

Popular Trails

• Forest Edge Walk: Easy, great for spotting tarsiers at dusk
• Black Macaque Trail: Moderate, ideal for wildlife photography
• Tangkoko Forest Trail: A long wildlife watching walk through the tropical rainforest of North Sulawesi. 

Gursky's Spectral Tarsier

Expect humid conditions and dense vegetation, so proper footwear and hydration are essential.

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3. Birding in Tangkoko

Birdwatchers consider Tangkoko one of the best birding sites in Indonesia, thanks to its high number of **endemic Sulawesi birds**.

Bird Species to Look For

• Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher
• Knobbed Hornbill
• Lilac-cheeked Kingfisher
• Green-backed Kingfisher
• Ashy Woodpecker
• Minahasa Racquet-tail

Most tours begin at dawn, when the forest is alive with calls and movement.

Sulawesi Dwarf Hornbill

4. Iconic Wildlife Encounters

Beyond birds, the reserve is home to some of Indonesia’s most iconic species:

• Celebes Crested Macaques - Endemic primates known for their expressive faces and social behavior.
• Spectral Tarsier - One of the smallest primates on Earth—best spotted at dusk when they emerge to forage.
• Cuscus Bear - A tree-dwelling marsupial often seen resting on branches.

These sightings make Tangkoko a dream destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

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Minahasa Highland: Scenic Trails and Cultural Wonders

1. Overview

A short drive from Manado, the Minahasa Highland offers a cooler climate and a dramatic landscape of mountains, volcanic craters, lakes, and farming villages.

2. Beautiful Hiking Spots in the Minahasa Highland

Mount Mahawu

Difficulty: Easy–moderate

Highlight: A walking path around the crater and distant views of Lake Tondano, hills and mountains in Minahasa Peninsula. 

Lake Linow

A volcanic lake known for its shifting turquoise and emerald colors caused by geothermal activity.

Lake Tondano

A peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by lush hills and local restaurants serving fresh seafood.

Sonder's Farm Forest

A mixture of panoramic roadside walks and trails across the forest edge and farmland of Minahasa Highland. 

3. Birding in the Highlands

The highland forests host a different set of species from Tangkoko, making the region a great complementary birding destination.

Species to Watch For

• Sulawesi Myzomela
• Sulawesi Scops Owl
• Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
• Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher
• Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker
• Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker
• Black-crowned White-eye
• Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove
• Superb Fruit-dove
• Yellow-billed Malkoha and etc. 

Sahul Sunbird in Subdistrict Sonder of Minahasa highland

Early morning walks around Mahawu and Sonder farm forest offer the best chances for sightings of the above birds.

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# **Planning Your Trip**

## **How to Get There**

* **Nearest city:** Manado

* **Tangkoko:** ~1.5–2 hours from Manado

* **Minahasa Highland:** ~1 hour drive to Tomohon

## **Where to Stay**

* **Near Tangkoko:** Guesthouses in Batu Putih

* **Minahasa Highland:** Eco-lodges around Tomohon or Rurukan

## **What to Pack**

* Lightweight hiking shoes

* Long sleeves and insect repellent

* Binoculars (a must for birding)

* Camera and telephoto lens

* Light rain jacket

Finch-billed Myna in Sonder of Minahasa regency

# **Final Tips for a Responsible Adventure**

* Keep a distance from animals, especially macaques

* Don’t use flash photography on nocturnal species like tarsiers

* Stay on marked trails to protect the ecosystem

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# **Conclusion**

Hiking and wildlife watching in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and the Minahasa Highland offer an unforgettable blend of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness. Whether you’re chasing endemic birds, photographing rare primates, or hiking among volcanic peaks, North Sulawesi is a destination that will stay with you long after your adventure ends.

Booking

Please, send me (Charles Roring) an email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or text message through whatsapp by pressing this contact link. I will be happy to organize your trip to this beautiful land of Minahasa Peninsula. 

Also read:

• Wildlife Tour in Tangkoko Forest and Minahasa Highland
• Birding in the Farmland of Minahasa Highland
• Birding and Butterflywatching in Sonder of Minahasa Highland
• Birdwatching Tour in Minahasa Highland of North Sulawesi
• Birds of Sulawesi

Atraksi Wisata di Kota Aimas Kabupaten Sorong

Kabupaten Sorong di Provinsi Papua Barat Daya merupakan destinasi penting bagi wisata pengamatan burung Cendrawasih dan satwa liar di hutan hujan tropis. Kampung-kampung seperti Malaumkarta, Swatolo, Suwatuk, Malagufuk, Klatomok, Asbaken dan Klalik adalah destinasi wisata alam yang bisa dikunjungi oleh siapa saja yang ingin melihat keindahan alam pesisir dan hutan tropis di wilayah utara dari Kabupaten Sorong.

Ibu kota Kabupaten Sorong adalah Aimas. Kota ini sebagian penduduknya adalah warga transmigrasi yang berasal dari Pulau Jawa. Sebagian besar dari mereka bekerja sebagai petani. Mereka menanam tanaman palawija dan tanalan pangan. Buah-buahan seperti jambu kristal, buah naga, jambu air, pisang, nangka, mangga, avokado, bisa dibeli oleh wisatawan yang berkunjung ke kota Aimas. Petani di sana menanami kebun mereka dengan mentimun, terong, jagung, dan pepaya. Ada juga yang beternak ayam atau memelihara ikan nila di kolam perikanan darat.

Ada banyak warung makan yang menyediakan berbagai jenis menu selera nusantara bagi wisatawan. Ada ikan mujair bakar yang disajikan dengan lalapan sayuran segar dan sambal yang gurih. Bagi mereka yang tertarik dengan seafood, kota Aimas dan kota Sorong menyediakan banyak sekali pilihan. 

Atraksi Wisata Budaya di kota Aimas, Kabupaten Sorong

Disamping wisata alam, wisata agro dan kuliner, wisatawan bisa juga berkunjung ke rumah budaya yang ada di Aimas. Ada beberapa rumah adat dari sejumlah suku di sana. Wisatawan bisa melihat rumah adat Papua, menyaksikan tari-tarian adat serta serta membuat foto dan video pribadi sambil mengenakan baju adat Papua yang bisa disewa dari pengelola rumah budaya tersebut. 

Nomor kontak dan Lokasinya secara akurat bisa dilihat di Google Map dengan kata kunci Taman Etnik Papua - Aimas, Kabupaten Sorong. 

Perlengkapan Traveling

Ketika wisatawan hendak melakukan perjalanan wisata, mereka biasanya memerlukan perlengkapan yang bisa dibeli di marketplace seperti Tokopedia sebagai berikut:

• Tas ransel, rata-rata ukuran yang dibawa antara 20- 40 liter. Di dalamnya bisa diisi pakaian, ponsel dan chargernya, kamera dan lain-lain. Tas ransel harus kuat, dan tali pikulannya tidak mudah putus dan tahan bocoran terhadap air hujan atau cairan lainnya.
• Krim pelindung kulit dari sengatan sinar matahari (sunblock lotion).
• Teropong dua barrel atau binoculars. Peralatan ini dibutuhkan oleh wisatawan yang suka sekali melihat keindahan alam dengan beraneka ragam flora dan faunanya. 
• Kamera aksi yang kecil namun dapat memotret dan menghasilkan gambar yang bagus. 
• Buat pembaca yang suka sekali dengan aktivitas renang di pantai, membawa satu set peralatan snorkeling akan membuat perjalanan Anda semakin menyenangkan. 

Semoga perjalanan wisata Anda ke kota Aimas di Kabupaten Sorong semakin menambah kecintaan dan kepedulian Anda terhadap keindahan alam dan pelestarian lingkungan hidup. Artikel ini ditulis oleh Charles Roring.

Baca juga:

• Perjalanan Wisata Pengamatan Burung di Taman Nasional Kerinci Seblat
• Wisata Snorkeling di Kepulauan Raja Ampat
• Birding and Butterflywatching in Sonder of Minahasa Highland
• Birding Vacation in North Sulawesi

Jungle Tour in Sorong Regency of West Papua

I have been organizing tours for tourists to tropical rainforest of  Sorong regency for years. The destination is Klasow valley located approximately two hours by 4WD car from Sorong city. A lot of tourists take wildlife tour to this forest before or after their trip in Raja Ampat.

Rainforest in Klaimis area of the valley is the habitat of various species of unique and beautiful birds such as Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise, King Bird of Paradise, Magnificent Riflebird, Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, and etc.

Wildlife Watching Tour in Sorong regency of Indonesia

There are also mammals that we could see in the forest including cuscus, fruit bat, possum, dorcopsis, bandicoot, echidna and long-fingered trike. 

Klaimis forest of Klasow valley is also the habitat of colourful butterflies such as Ulysses Butterfly, Blue Tiger Butterfly, Common Green Birdwing, Silky Owl, New Guinea Clipper and etc.

So far most of the guests who visited the valley were from western countries such as the United States, The Netherlands, France, Switzerland and Germany and etc. Some came as a single travelers while others came as couples or as groups of three up to six people. More visitors are coming as more information is uploaded into the internet about the Klasow valley and Tambrauw mountains.

a Swiss tourist with the background of
tropical jungle of Klasow valley

The Rainforest

The plants that grow in Klasow valley are typical vegetation that is usually found in the lowland and coastal area of New Guinea. Big trees such as ficus, large conifer Agathis, and iron wood, and various species of palms live side by side with rattan and other vines or climbing plants.

There are also sago trees which the indigenous people process to make flour. Sago is the staple food of Moi tribe who live in the region.
Wildlife Watching
Tourists go to Klaimis forest of Klasow valley to see the rich bio-diversity of tropical rainforest that is the natural habitat of wallaby (a kind of small ground kangaroo, bandicoot, cassowary, wild pigs, sulphur crested cockatoo, goliath cockatoo, blyh's hornbill, goshawk, kingfisher, golden myna, dollar bird, pinon imperial pigeon and a lot of other birds. Colorful butterflies can also be seen in the area too. Birdwatching can usually be done from mornings until evening. Nocturnal bird such as Papuan Frogmouth can sometimes be heard calling from distant trees. At night, jungle walk can be carried out to see wallaby.

Accommodation for visitors in Klaimis forest of Sorong regency

Where to stay
Most of the tourists who visited Klasow valley stayed in homestay in Klaimis forest owned by villagers. They are made of wood. There is clean water installation and a simple toilet.

Cost: On the average the cost per person depends on the number of participants and how long they plan to stay in the forest. The cost must cover transportation by 4WD car, local guide, food, and basic accommodation in the jungle village.

Booking:
Please, contact my email: peace4wp@gmail.com or through whatsapp by pressing the following button:

Also read:

• Birding in Minahasa Highland
• Birdwatching in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland
• Birdwatching in Sonder of Minahasa Regency
• Wildlife Tour in Klaimis Forest of Sorong Regency

Rainforest Tour organized from Sorong Town

Trekking in the forest of Sorong regency of West Papua

I often receive emails from visitors who want to go trekking in the rainforest near Sorong town. Usually they want to combine their diving trip in Raja Ampat with jungle tour in the mainland New Guinea particularly near Sorong city.
I can organize a land tour or jungle tour to several destinations in West Papua.

• For visitors who only have got 2 to 3 days in Sorong, the destination that I offer is Klasow valley. 
• If they have got more than 3 days, the rainforest that I will offer is Tambrauw mountains (lowland forest along Syuan river or pristine forest in Ases valley).

Klasow Valley

This valley is only 1 hour away from Sorong town and another hour on foot to reach the jungle village of Malagufuk. Visitors who book the tour to Klasow valley can start the tour early in the morning. Wild animals that live in the valley are wallaby, cassowary, deer, wild pigs, soa-soa, and various species of birds including lesser birds of paradise, blyth's hornbills, sulphur crested cockatoo, western crowned pigeon, golden myna, yellow faced myna and a lot more. Visitors are advised to bring D-SLR camera with telephoto lens or a bridge camera with super telephoto capability such as Nikon Coolpix P900. The rainforest of Klasow valley is flat. So, it is suitable for anybody who cannot go trekking in sloppy mountains.

Tambrauw Mountains

Camping site in the jungle of Tambrauw mountains

This is the destination for visitors who have got more than 3 days to spend in the jungle. Tambrauw mountains are covered by huge tropical rainforest from its coastal area up to the mountainous regions. For coastal region, the usual destination where I bring my guests to is Syuan river. It is suitable for camping and trekking. Tents will be built at the bank of the river. During the tour, visitors can enjoy swimming and birdwatching as well as learning the medicinal functions of herbal plants that grow in the jungle.
Another destination in Tambrauw mountains is Ases valley. To reach the valley, visitors need to go by a 4WD car for 6 hours. After that the trip will be continued on foot for 2 hours. Deers, wallaby, cassowary bird, tree kangaroo, and a lot of species of birds live in the valley.

Western Crowned Pigeon in
the jungle of Klasow valley

As a tourist guide I have arranged a lot of rainforest trips for visitors who want to explore the tropical jungle of West Papua for several days. That's why I have got tents, air mattresses, rechargeable lights, cooking, eating, and other logistical gear that are needed for the tour. I also have contacts with local villagers and 4WD car drivers that I need to organize a jungle tour or expedition.
So, if you are interested in taking a rainforest tour that is organized from Sorong town, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com

Also read:

• Birding in Minahasa Highland: A Paradise for Avifauna Enthusiasts
• Birding and Butterflywatching in Sonder's Forest and Farmland
• Minahasa Highland Tour: Hiking, Birding and Sightseeing

Berwisata ke Hutan Lembah Klasow di Sorong

Kota Sorong di Provinsi Papua Barat adalah pintu masuk utama bagi para wisatawan yang ingin pergi ke Kepulauan Raja Ampat - sebuah destinasi wisata bahari yang terpopuler di dunia. Kota Sorong terletak di daratan utama Papua. Sayang sekali informasi yang tersedia mengenai atraksi wisata di Kabupaten Sorong sangatlah sedikit. Daerah pinggiran kota Sorong didominasi oleh pegunungan, dataran rendah serta kawasan rawa-rawa.

Wisatawan Inggris saat sedang nonton burung di hutan Sorong beberapa waktu yang lalu sebelum Pandemi Covid-19 berlangsung

Lembah Klasow
Di sebelah timur kota Sorong ada sebuah lembah yang luas sekali. Namanya Lembah Klasow. Tanahnya yang datar dan dialiri sungai-sungai kecil dan besar serta ditutupi oleh hutan hujan tropis merupakan daya tarik wisata bagi para pelancong dari dalam dan luar negeri. Berbagai jenis pohon seperti beringin, matoa dan kayu besi, rotan, pandanus dan tanaman palma tumbuh di hutan itu. Jika Anda berwisata di dalam hutan menyusuri jalan setapak dan sungai-sungai kecil, Anda akan melihat burung-burung berkicau di sela-sela dahan. Ada juga kupu-kupu dan serangga kecil yang mengisap madu dari bunga-bunga liar yang tumbuh di sana.

Lembah Klasow Sorong

Pengamatan Burung dan Satwa Liar
Bawalah teropong (kijker) jika Anda ingin melihat burung-burung Papua. Beberapa di antaranya yang mudah dijumpai adalah kakaktua putih (sulphur crested cockatoo); kakaktua raja (goliath cockatoo), taun-taun (blyth's hornbill), dan kumkum (pinon imperial pigeon). Untuk pemotretan burung, gunakan kamera D-SLR dengan lensa telefoto minimal 600 mm atau kamera bridge tipe Nikon Coolpix P900 yang memiliki kemampuan zoom yang besar sekali.

Burung Cendrawasih

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Kuskus biasanya keluar dari persembunyiannya untuk mencari makan dan kawin di malam hari. Begitu pula dengan Lao-lao (sejenis kanguru tanah). Bawalah senter memudahkan Anda menjelajahi hutan di malam hari.
Ada beberapa kampung seperti Kampung Malagufuk, Kampung Klatomok yang dikunjungi wisatawan asing yang datang dari Eropa, Amerika, Asia, Afrika dan Australia. Wisatawan internasional tersebut tinggal di kampung hingga beberapa hari lamanya. Mereka membeli bahan makanan dari kota dan ketika berada di kampung, bahan makanan tersebut akan dimasak oleh warga setempat untuk wisatawan. 

Selain itu juga kampung-kampung lain yang potensial dan layak dikunjungi oleh wisatawan baik lokal maupun manca negara seperti Distrik Klayeli yang ada sungai berair panas dan Kampung Klalik yang juga memiliki lokasi pengamatan burung Cendrawasih. 

Di mana Lembah Klasow berada?
Lihatlah peta berikut ini. Lembah Klasow terletak di sebelah timur kota Sorong dan dapat dicapai dengan kendaraan bermotor selama kurang lebih 1,5 jam.

Bagaimana cara ke sana?
Terbanglah dari kota Anda ke kota Sorong. Beberapa maskapai penerbangan yang ke Sorong antara lain Garuda Indonesia, Sriwijaya, Lion/ Wings Air, Batik.

Apa yang perlu dipersiapkan?
Belilah bahan makanan dan minuman di pasar atau supermarket yang secukupnya untuk Anda dan para pemandu lokal (kurang lebih 2 - 4 orang), tergantung jumlah peserta tur.
Bawalah baterai ekstra untuk kamera jika Anda ingin berada di hutan selama beberapa hari.
Belilah sebotol cairan anti serangga untuk diusapkan ke sekujur tubuh Anda saat berada di hutan termasuk di permukaan kulit yang tertutup pakaian.
Di hutan ada kamp yang sudah disiapkan untuk wisatawan. Kalau Anda ingin tidur lebih nyaman bawalah sleeping bag.

Ekowisata versus Logging
Inisiatif ekowisata ke hutan hujan tropis di Lembah Klasow masih berada dalam tahap awal. Oleh karena, kami mohon agar wisatawan bisa lebih toleran jika melihat bahwa pemandu wisata lokal dan penduduk setempat kurang memiliki pengalaman dan profesionalitas yang cukup selama melayani Anda. Tujuan utama dari program ekowisata di Lembah Klasow adalah untuk membantu masyarakat setempat mengurangi dan bahkan menghentikan kegiatan penebangan pohon (logging) serta memberikan alternatif pendapatan lewat pariwisata.
Untuk informasi lebih lanjut mengenai biaya perjalanan, silahkan menghubungi saya (Charles Roring) lewat e-mail: peace4wp@gmail.com atau ponsel 081332245180.

Untuk mendukung kelangsungan website ini, saya menjual beberapa merchandise yang bergambar Cendrawasih. Bila pembaca tertarik, silahkan klik foto kaos berikut. 

Kaos Cendrawasih untuk wanita

Kaos Lengan Panjang Pria

Ada juga produk-produk lain di website : Alam Lestari.

Jelajah Hutan Klasow di Kabupaten Sorong

Saya sering berkunjung ke kota Sorong untuk memandu wisatawan.  Tujuan utama adalah melihat hutan hujan tropis di Lembah Klasouw yang terletak di sepanjang jalan Sorong- Tambrauw. 

Pertama kali saya ke sana adalah beberapa tahun lalu (sekitar akhir tahun 2014). Begini ceritanya:

Wisatawan asing nonton burung

Dengan ditemani beberapa pemandu lokal, kami menuju kampung Malaumkarta. Kendaraan yang kami tumpangi adalah Toyota Hilux 4WD Seri G. Jalan raya di hari Minggu pagi di kota Sorong tidak terlalu ramai. Pak Sopir (Om Julius) yang mengantar kami meningkatkan kecepatan mobilnya.

Kampung Malaumkarta
Terketak di sebelah timur Sorong, Kampung Malaumkarta bisa dicapai hanya dalam waktu kurang lebih satu jam. Kampung ini berada di pesisir pantai yang berpasir putih. Di sana kami menemui Kostan, seorang pemuda setempat yang aktif di berbagai lembaga swadaya masyarakat yang peduli dengan lingkungan hidup. Sebelum melanjutkan perjalanan ke Lembah Klasow, saya menyempatkan diri untuk memotret pemandangan pantai di kampung itu. Pantai ini cocok untuk wisatawan yang suka berenang, berjemur di bawah terik matahari atau snorkeling untuk melihat warna-warni terumbu karang dan ikan-ikan laut.

Pantai di Malaumkarta

Setelah mengambil foto pemandangan pantai, kami pun melanjutkan perjalanan ke Lembah Klasow ditemani oleh bung Kostan Magablo. Kampung Malaumkarta dengan Lembah Klasow hanya dipisahkan oleh sebuah urat gunung yang lumayan tinggi. Oleh karena itu waktu yang kami perlukan untuk mencapai lembah tinggal 30 menit.
Hutan Lembah Klasow
Udara dingin dan sejuk mulai terasa saat kita berjalan memasuki hutan. Kicauan berbagai jenis burung terdengar di sela-sela dahan pohon yang rimbun. Sesekali saya mendengar suara burung kakaktua yang nyaring di angkasa.

Menonton Cendrawasih
Hutan di Lembah Klasow merupakan habitat alami berbagai jenis satwa termasuk Lao-lao atau sejenis kanguru berukuran kecil, burung Cendrawasih, rusa dan berbagai jenis kupu-kupu. Ditemani oleh Luxen Pa, Niko Nauw, Kostan Magablo dan beberapa pemuda kampung lainnya, kami menuju tepian sungai Klasow. Sesampainya di sana, kami diterpa hujan lebat. Kami berjalan terus hingga tiba di dua buah tenda terpal di tengah hutan. Warga setempat menerima kami dengan senang hati. Sekarang 2 buah tenda terpal tersebut telah berkembang menjadi Kampung Malagufuk dan Kampung Klatomok yang saling bertetangga. Perjalanan kami lanjutkan keesokan paginya ke tepi Sungai Klasow untuk menonton Cendrawasih.

Oleh karena itu, kami berteduh selama beberapa jam di rumah Misael. Ketika hujan telah berhenti, saya memutuskan untuk segera menuju tepian sungai Klasow untuk melihat burung Cendrawasih. Kamera Nikon Coolpix P600 saya bawa untuk memotret burung Cendrawasih yang bertengger di cabang pohon di seberang Sungai Klasow yang jauh, meskipun tidak tajam.

Foto Cendrawasih Kuning Kecil pertama dari Lembah Klasow yang saya publikasikan pada sejumlah artikel berbahasa Inggris untuk mempromosikan ekowisata birding di hutan dataran rendah Kabupaten Sorong

Ini foto pertama Cendrawasih Kuning dari seberang Sungai Klasow yang saya publikasikan ke dunia maya. Foto ini ikut berperan dalam mempromosikan ekowisata di kabupaten Sorong. Setelah bermalam di hutan, keesokan harinya kami berjalan kaki keluar hutan, menaiki gunung dan kemudian turun ke Malaumkarta. Jalan kaki dari Lembah Klasow ke Malaumkarta sungguh melelahkan. Namun itu adalah pengalaman yang berharga dalam upaya promosi lembah ini ke depan hingga menjadi terkenal sebagai destinasi wisata birding di dunia. Ditulis oleh Charles Roring.

Baca juga:

• Ekowisata Penjelajahan Hutan di Kabupaten Sorong
• Berwisata ke Hutan Lembah Klasow di Sorong

Anda bisa mendukung pengembangan website ini dengan membeli beberapa merchandise di Toko Online: Alam Lestari atau dengan klik gambar berikut:

Tas bergambar Cendrawasih Kuning

Kaos Cendrawasih Merah

Traveling by ship along the coast of Tambrauw regency

I have just completed a boat trip along the north coast of West Papua. I guided five visitors from the Netherlands. We left Manokwari city by PELNI ship KM Kasuari Pasifik 3 for Sausapor town (the temporary capital of Tambrauw regency). The ship stopped in the waters of such villages as Saukorem, Imbuan, Waibem, Wau, Warmandi, Saubeba, Kwor, Opmare, Werur and finally arrived in Sausapor. That's our destination. But the ship continued its voyage to Sorong. 

Traveling by Ship along Tambrauw coast

We stayed for 2 days in Sausapor and explored the natural beauty of the little town. We enjoyed snorkeling over its beautiful coral reef and spent one night at the beach in search of turtles. Unfortunately, no turtles landed that night. However, we saw green frog, a large beach crab and snake. At the end of our adventure in Sausapor, we continued our trip to Sorong city by KM Sunlia. KM stands for Kapal Motor meaning Motor Vessel. 

Villagers were waiting for boats to load their produce
to ship

KM Kasuari Pasifik 3 carries cargo and passengers. Its price is 50,000 rupiahs (approximately 4 Euros) per person. Because the ticket price is so cheap, tourists can use their extra money to buy fruits, food, and souvenirs from local Papuan people. This is important for the economic livelihood of the villagers who live along the coastal area of Tambrauw regency.

It stops for 2 to 3 hours in the waters of every village that I mentioned above. During the stop period, visitors can go to the village to enjoy fishing, swimming, snorkeling or have walking tour around every village. Visitors will also meet Papuan people in their daily life, before returning to the ship for their next adventure.

KM Kasuari Pasifik 3 sails between Manokwari and Sorong four times a month. It usually carries 100 passengers. Every passenger gets his or her own bed. During school holiday seasons and Christmas time, it can carry up to 200 people or even more. Visitors, upon an advanced arrangement by a tourist guide, can rent rooms in the ship that are used by ship crews. The price is 700,000 rupiahs per room for the whole trip. It can accommodate between 2 to 4 people depending on the number of bags that they carry. 

The ship plays vital role in supporting the economy of the villagers. It carries agricultural produce such as banana, coconut, and cocoa beans. Villagers also carry deer, goat, pigs, dogs, and other animals which they want to sell in Sorong or Manokwari.
If you are interested in traveling along the coast of Tambrauw regency by the ship and need me to be your private guide, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com

Birdwatching in Lowland Forest of Sorong

Male Lesser Birds of Paradise (Paradisaea minor)

Paradise Birds of Klasow Valley
Sorong is a city in West Papua province of Indonesia that has become the main gate to Raja Ampat. There is a huge valley in the east of Sorong that is famous among birdwatchers as the most recommended site for watching Paradise Birds. Its name is Klasow Valley. Lesser Birds of Paradise (Paradisaea minor), King Bird of Paradise (Cicinnurus regius), Magnificent Riflebird (Ptiloris magnificus) and Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise (Seleucidis melanoleucus) live in tropical rainforest of the valley and can be watched together with hundreds of species other of birds.

Visitors who go to Malagufuk village of Klasow valley usually spend at least 4 days/ 3 nights in the jungle to watch birds, and other wild animals, as well as wild flowers and unique tropical plants of the rainforest. There is a small village in the middle of the forest. There are also two jungle huts that have been prepared for visitors. The huts are equipped with mattrasses, mosquito nets and toilets.
The birdwatching site for Lesser Birds of Paradise is approximately a 1.5-hour-walk from the village. Visitors who want to watch the paradise birds need to wake up early in the morning at 04.00 to have tea or coffee and to make preparation until 04.30. After that they have to start walking. Because it is still dark, head torch will be needed for the morning jungle walk. There is another birdwatching site for Lesser Birds of Paradise approximately 30 minutes walk from the village. But the tree where the birds dance is quite high. Each visitor who wants to watch birds at this site needs to bring a good pair of binoculars. Usually, the activity of Lesser BOP at their display trees decreases after 09.00.  Birdwatchers can walk back to the village to take a rest and have lunch.
Northern Cassowary

Northern Cassowary in lowland forest of Sorong regency

There is also Northern Cassowary that regularly visits the village to ask banana fruits and sugar cane from villagers. It is a very big bird and dangerous. I used to guide a group of visitors from Rockjumper. We spent 2 days/ 1 night in the valley to watch birds. We were quite lucky to be welcomed by this Northern Cassowary. But we have to keep safe distance from the bird. During our tour in Malagufuk of Klasow valley, we were able to watch King Bird of Paradise, Northern Cassowary, Yellow-faced Myna, Helmetted Friarbird, Black Lory, Boyer's Cuckooshrike, Red-cheeked Parrot, Glossy Swiftlet, Pinon Imperial Pigeon.
Birds are not the only animals that live in this lowland forest of Sorong, there are butterfly and beetles, cuscus possum, wallaby, fish and frogs in the river, snake, wild pigs, soa-soa lizard, dear and even crocodile in big river.

Want to visit Klasow valley?
Fly from your country to Jakarta (capital of Indonesia) or Manado city (by Silk Air from Singapore).  There are regular flights from these cities to Sorong city. I could meet you at the airport or at the hotel where you stay and organize your trip to Klasow valley.

Booking
If you are interested in taking a birdwatching tour in West Papua and needs me to organize your tour, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by text message to my whatsapp: +6281332245180.

Birding near Sorong city

Olive-backed Sunbird

This is the picture of Olive-backed Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis) that I saw in a forest near Sorong city. For tens of years, this city has become the main gate to Raja Ampat islands for tourists who to spend their holiday scuba diving, swimming and snorkeling. However, there are also a lot of tourists who want to enjoy hiking, birdwatching and nature watching in general.

Yellow-billed Kingfisher

Birding Tour
As a tourist guide, I have organized tours to forest areas near Sorong city. Because this forest is just outside the city, visitors can start the tour early in the morning and then return to their hotel before dark. From a short hiking and birdwatching trip, I saw Helmetted Friarbird, Olive-backed Sunbird, Coconut Lorikeet, and Yellow-faced Myna. I also saw some birds flying very fast in front of me making it difficult to identify them. I guess they were Black Lory, and Hooded Butcherbird.

American tourists were watching birds.

In addition to birds, visitors who take this tour will be able to see savanna hills, terrestrial Spathoglottis orchids, butterflies, grasshoppers, and unique tropical plants of Papua.
We will walk along the ridge of Savanna Hills and then down to tropical rainforest of Sorong that is still in very good condition. The shortest trip is one day, but we can organize multiple day hiking, camping and birding tour that lasts for 3 to 4 days. There are several sites in the forest where we can use to build our basecamp. Because organizing a multiple day tour in the forest needs more logistical supplies, we will bring tents, mattrasses, cooking and eating utensils.
What to Wear and What to Bring

To take this trip, please, wear sport/ hiking shoes with socks, long pants or short pants, apply insect repellent lotion, t-shirt and hat. During rainy season, bring raincoat.
To enhance your birding experience, bring a pair of binoculars such as the Swarovski EL 8.5×42, spotting scope and tripod as well as birding camera such as Nikon P900 or Fujifilm HS50EXR.

Wildlife Tours in Rainforest of Sorong

Lesser Birds of Paradise

I offer birding and wildlife watching tours for visitors who are interested in hiking and watching exploring the tropical rainforest of Sorong city. These tours are suitable for tourists who want to take land tour before or after their diving/ snorkeling tour in Raja Ampat. The duration of the tour can be customized into 1 day for day trip to 3 or 4 days for camping and adventure in tropical rainforest. We have prepared basecamp in the forest. There are cooking and eating utensils too. We provide these things so that visitors do not need to carry heavy things to explore the rainforest.

See the biodiversity of plants and animals in rainforest

Rainforest in Sorong regency of West Papua

We will explore the forest to see butterflies, beetles, and a lot of other insects,  birds, lizards, cuscus possum. Tropical rainforest of West Papua is a rich environment. There are a lot of species of trees, shrub and creeping plants, as well as wild flower plants that can be seen in the forest. Visitors will be able to see the scenery of the forest while walking along the ridge of the savanna hills. As we walk deeper and then down the slopes of the hill, we will be able to reach a river whose bed is covered by big granite stones.

Day Hiking Tour

Tropical Rainforest in Sorong regency

Most tourists request day hiking tour. I highly suggest that visitors go in a group of at least 4 people or even more to share the cost. We can start in the morning and then return in the afternoon.

How to get to Sorong city
Sorong city is the gateway to Raja Ampat islands - the most important tourist destination in Indonesia for scuba diving and snorkeling. Here is how to get there:

• Take an international flight from your country to Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia).
• After that, take a domestic flight, by Garuda or Batik Air or Sriwijaya, to Sorong city. I could meet you in Sorong and organise your trip to the forest.

Booking
To book your rainforest wildlife watching tour, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by e-mail to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180.

Birding in Sorong Ridge Forest with 2 Australian Tourists

Double-eyed Fig Parrot

I went birding with 2 Australian visitors (David and Jane) today. We visited Sorong ridge forest. We left Swiss-belhotel at 05.30 for the Sunbird Ridge Forest. I carried a Kinglux 20-60×60 spotting scope to watch birds that sit on the branches of distant trees. During the tour we saw Yellow-faced Myna, Oriental Dollarbird, Brahminy Kite, Grey-headed Goshawk, Orange-bellied Fruit Dove, Double-eyed Fig Parrot, Rainbow Bee-eater, Blyth's Hornbill, Red-cheeked Parrot, Black Sunbird, Olive-backed Sunbird, Black-browed Triller, Fairy Lorikeet, Double-eyed Fig Parrot, Eclectus Parrot.

Although in the first one hours it rained a lot, we could enjoy the hiking and birdwing tour in the forest. We also saw Eupholus schoenherri beetle and various kinds of butterfly during the tour. 

Female Black Sunbird

Sorong city is the gate to Raja Ampat. A lot of people fly to this city every day. Most of the tourists spend one or two days in Sorong before and after their trip in Raja Ampat. They could take advantage of their stay in this city by enjoying hiking and birding.

I highly recommend that visitors travel in a group of tourists to share the cost. Please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or send whatsapp message to my number: +6281332245180 if you are interested in taking the birding tour with me as your guide in Sorong city of West Papua province of Indonesia.