Nature Tour At the Outskirts of Sorong City of Indonesia

Sorong city is the gateway for visitors to Raja Ampat. Its outskirt areas of Sorong city itself are attractive for visitors who love nature. One of the most popular tour packages that visitors like to take is nature walk, birdwatching, butterflywatching. 

Nature Tour at the Outskirt of Sorong city

The forest and farmland at the outskirt of Aimas town is the habitat of a lot of species of birds such as Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Shining Flycatcher, Orange-breasted Fruit-dove, Helmeted Friarbird, and etc. The tour to this forest site usually starts at 05:00 and finishes at around 08:00.

After that visitors could continue their trip to mangrove forest located at the coastal area of Sorong to look for Brown-backed Honeyeater, White-bellied Cuckooshrike, Sacred Kingfisher, Willie Wagtail, Emperor Fairywren, and etc. 

There are also butterflies which visitors could see including Common Green Birdwing, Cruiser Butterfly, Silky Owl, and Ulysses butterflies. 

Sultan's Cuckoo-dove (formerly called Brown Cuckoo-dove)

Other interesting sites for visitors to see the green and blue landscapes of Sorong city are the hill areas. From those hills, visitors could see the view of forest canopy, and some parts of Sorong city. 

For visitors who are interested in multiple day wildlife watching tour in Sorong regency before or after their trip in Raja Ampat, the recommended destination is Klaimis forest. It is the habitat of various species of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects. 

Visitors could watch Lesser Birds of Paradise, King Bird of Paradise, Magnificent Riflebird, Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise. There are also Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Azure Kingfisher, Papuan Dwarf Kingfisher, and Hook-billed Kingfisher.  

Mammals are usually watched at nights. There are dorcopsis, fruit bats, cuscus, bandicoot, brown tree mouse, long-fingered trike, and echidna. 

On the average, the duration of wildlife watching tour in Klaimis forest is between 3 to 4 days.

Some of the wild animals that we could see in Klaimia forest of Sorong regency

If you are interested in taking a tour from Sorong city, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com. 

Also read: 

• Birding tour in Sonder of Minahasa highland
• Bird photography tour in Tangkoko Nature reserve and Minahasa highland
• Bird and photography tour in Minahasa highland

Tropical Birding and Snorkeling Tour in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is one of the best marine environment in the world. It has got a lot of tropical islands that are surrounded by coral reef. Most visitors go there to enjoy swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. They could see various kinds of marine creatures from the tiny pygmy seahorse and to big fish like manta and dolphins. 

Raja Ampat islands are also covered by tropical rainforest which is the habitat of a lot of species of fish including Red Bird of Paradise, King Bird of Paradise, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Common Paradise Kingfisher, Beach Kingfisher, Pinon Imperial Pigeon, Pink-spotted Fruit-dove, Claret-breasted Fruit-dove, Hooded Butcherbird, Helmeted Friarbird, Brown Oriole, and a lot more. 

Red Bird of Paradise

Most visitors choose Waigeo island as their choice for birding. It is easy to reach the island because there are regular ferry service that go between  Sorong city and Waigeo. 

Visiting birders also need binoculars and camera with telephoto lenses. This will enable them to watch and take pictures of birds. 

In general visitors spend around 3 to 4 days in Waigeo to watch a lot of speciea of birds there. The birding trip in Waigeo could be combined with wildlife tour in Klabili village of Tambrauw regency or the forest at the outskirts of Sorong city. 

Red and Black Anemonefish

If you are interested in taking birding and snorkeling tour in Raja Ampat and want me to organize your trip, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com. 

Also read:

• Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher
• Traveling to Raja Ampat islands
• Birding and Photography Tour in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland
• Birding Tour in Sonder of Minahasa highland
• Birdwatching and Photography Tour in Minahasa Highland
• Bird and Photography Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland

Birding Tour in Sonder of Minahasa Highland

Sonder is a small subdistrict town in the Minahasa Highland of North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. It is a peaceful and green area with farmlands, hills, forests, and mountain slopes. The weather is cool, and the landscape is beautiful. This makes Sonder a good destination for birdwatching.

Warbling White-eye

There are a lot of species of birds that live in the forest, farmland and wetland of Sonder. Some of them are endemic to Sulawesi island. Visitors who enjoy birding can walk through the villages, along the small roads, and forest trails. Most birdwatching activities are done early in the mornings or in the late afternoons when birds are more active.

Some of the birds which visitors could see in Minahasa Highland

Here are some of the many birds that can be seen in Subdistrict town of Sonder and its surroundings:

• Sulawesi Myzomela
• Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker
• Sulawesi Drongo
• Sulawesi Babbler
• Sulawesi Leaf Warbler
• Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher
• Yellow-sided Flowerpecker
• Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker
• Mountain Tailorbird
• Finch-billed Myna
• White-necked Myna
• Sulawesi Myna
• Sulawesi Scops Owl
• Black-naped Fruit-dove
• Ashy Woodpecker
• Yellow-billed Malkoha
• Rusty-bellied Fantail
• Sulawesi Cuckoo
• Sulawesi Goshawk
• Black-crowned White-eye
• Pale Blue Monarch

• Scaly-breasted Kingfisher
• Collared Kingfisher
• Sacred Kingfisher
• White-breasted Woodswallow
• Barn Swallow
• Pacific Swallow
• Uniform Swiftlet
• Grey-rumped Treeswift
• Glossy Swiftlet
• Little Egret
• Cattle Egret
• Purple Heron
• Spotted Dove
• Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove
• Emerald Dove
• Zebra Dove
• Black-naped Oriole
• Sahul Sunbird
• Crimson Sunbird
• Brown-throated Sunbird
• Sooty-headed Bulbul
• Yellow-vented Bulbul
• Eurasian Tree Sparrow
• Warbling White-eye
• Chestnut Munia
• Scaly-breasted Munia
• Asian Glossy Starling
• Sulawesi Serpent Eagle
• Peregrine Falcon
• Brahminy Kite

Sonder town in Minahasa highland

Birdwatchers who visit Sonder town can stay in homestays in the area. They can also join a local birding guide who knows the best places to see birds. A typical birding trip can last one to three days. Local people are friendly and often help visitors find the best paths.

Other birding sites in Minahasa Highland are Mount Mahawu, Lake Linow and Lake Tonado. More birds could be seen in these areas including Superb Fruit-dove, Red-eared Fruit-dove, Scaly-breasted Kingfisher and etc.

Sonder is surrounded by agricultural land. Farmers grow various kinds of food of crops such as corn, peanuts, tomatoes, banana, papaya, rambutan, avocado, durian, spring onion; as well as industrial agricultural crops such as vanilla, clove, and coconut.

In conclusion, Sonder is a good destination for birdwatchers who want to see Sulawesi’s unique birds in a quiet and natural setting. The area is easy to reach from Manado and offers a great experience for nature lovers.

If you are interested in taking a birding tour in Minahasa, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Also read:

• Birding and Photography Tour in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland
• Birdwatching and Photography Tour in Minahasa Highland
• Tangkoko Birding Tour

Bird viewing and Snorkeling in Raja Ampat

Waigeo island is recommended destination for bird watchers who want to see Red Bird of Paradise and Wilson's Bird of Paradise as well as other tropical birds such as Palm Cockatoo, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Yellow-faced Myna, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra and etc. in Raja Ampat.

Wilson's Bird of Paradise

Bird viewing is carried out in the mornings and late afternoons before sunset time in areas along the roadsides in southern Waigeo as well inside the forest of the island. 

Visitors need camera and telephoto lens to take photographs of the tropical birds that often sit on the branches of trees. Binoculars with extra dispersion lens will greatly enhance the bird viewing experience of visitors who spend their birding holiday in Raja Ampat. 

Reef fish in Waigeo of Raja Ampat

Reef fish in Waigeo

The coral reef that thrive along the coast of Waigeo is the habitat of a lot of marine life including parrotfish, moorish idol, anemonefish, wrasse, butterflyfish and etc. 

Snorkeling trip can be conducted by speed boat to various coral reef sites in Raja Ampat including Kabui bay, Lesser Urai, Friwen, Five Rocks, Mioskon island, Arborek, Yenbuba strait Cape Kri and etc. 

Visitors need to bring their own snorkeling mask and fins. Marine life can be photographed during the snorkeling activities. Some underwater cameras are now available on the market. The Nikon W300 and Olympus TG-7 are quite popular among snorkelers and scuba divers. 

WILDLIFE WATCHING TOUR IN MINAHASA PENINSULA

Minahasa Peninsula is a region in North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia that has become a popular destination for wildlife watching. There are several sites which tourists can visit including Tangkoko Batu Angus Nature Reserve in Biting municipality, Mount Mahawu and Sonder's Farm Forest in Minahasa highland. 

Animals such as Gursky's Spectral Tarsier, Celebes-crested Macaque, Sulawesi Bear Cuscus as well as a lot of species of tropical birds can be seen in Minahasa in this land. 

Visitors who are interested in birdviewing could see such birds as Sulawesi Hornbill, Knobbed Hornbill, Sulawesi Myzomela, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Pygmy Hanging Parrot and etc.

If you are interested in taking a bird viewing and snorkeling trip in Raja Ampat or Minahasa Peninsula, and want me to organize your tour, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Also read:

• Birding and Photography Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland
• Tangkoko Birding Tour

Birding and Photography Tour in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and Minahasa Highland: A Journey into Sulawesi’s Avian Paradise

North Sulawesi Province in Indonesia is a dream destination for birdwatchers, and few places on the island rival the biodiversity and birding charm of Tangkoko Nature Reserve and the Minahasa Highland. Located in North Sulawesi, these two regions offer contrasting habitats—coastal lowland rainforest and cool highland forests—providing birders with a rich and varied experience packed with endemics and wildlife spectacles.

Sulawesi Hanging Parrot

Tangkoko Nature Reserve: The Lowland Gem

Tangkoko is famed not only for its unique wildlife but also as one of the best sites in the world to spot Sulawesi’s endemic birds. The reserve's lowland rainforest is teeming with life, making every step of your birding walk a new discovery.

Key Bird Species in Tangkoko:

• Knobbed Hornbill (Rhyticeros cassidix): A charismatic and noisy resident often seen gliding above the canopy.
• Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx fallax): A vibrant, tiny jewel of the forest, often a highlight for photographers.
• Ochre-bellied Boobook (Ninox ochracea): A rarely seen, endemic owl species you might encounter during a night walk.
• Sulawesi Pitta (Erythropitta celebensis): Shy and elusive, this forest-floor dweller is a prize for patient birders.

Besides birds, Tangkoko is home to the Celebes Crested Macaque, Spectral Tarsier, and other endemics, adding to the overall wildlife experience.

Hair-crested Drongo (white-eye)

Minahasa Highland: Birding Haven

From Tangkoko, a few hours’ drive takes you up into the cool, misty forests of the Minahasa Highlands. The change in elevation brings a new suite of bird species that are not found in the lowlands.

Must-See Highland Birds:

• Scaly-breasted Kingfisher (Actenoides princeps): A shy, beautiful kingfisher of the highland forests.
• Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher is small bird that is endemic to Sulawesi island. The bird lives in high elevation forest. Mount Mahawu and Sonder's Farm Forest are the usual place for finding this beautiful avifauna.
• Sulawesi Myzomela, Yellow-sided Flowerpecker, and Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker: Small but colorful songbirds often seen feeding on flowering trees.
• Mountain White-eye and Sulawesi Leaf Warbler: Common sights in higher altitudes.
• Sulawesi Myzomela can be watched in flower garden, or flower shrub plants that grow in the highland. Tomohon town and the forest of Subdistrict Sonder are the recommended places to find this beautiful bird.

Minahasa also offers excellent birding around Gunung Mahawu and Lake Linow, where birding is enhanced by beautiful volcanic landscapes.

When is the recommemded time to Visit Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland?

Visitors can visit North Sulawesi any time they like. Early mornings are most productive for bird activity, and experienced local guides can greatly enhance your chances of spotting the endemic species.

Tips for a Great Birding Tour

• Hire a local birding guide: They know the trails, call playback spots, and can help you locate elusive endemics.
• Bring proper gear: Binoculars, spotting scope, and a good field guide to Sulawesi birds are essential.
• Be prepared for the terrain: Tangkoko involves some flat, forested trails, while Minahasa can be more hilly and damp.

Knobbed Hornbill

Why Combine Tangkoko and Minahasa?

By combining these two regions in a single tour, you maximize your species list and experience the full diversity of Sulawesi’s birdlife—from forest-floor pittas to highland kingfishers. It's a birding itinerary that offers not only species richness but also the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, cultural insights, and one-of-a-kind wildlife moments.

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Plan your birding journey today and explore the avian wonders of Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland. This is Sulawesi birding at its finest!

Booking

Please, contact Charles Roring by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com

Also read:

• Birdwatching and Photography Tour in Minahasa Highland
• Collared Kingfisher

Birdwatching and Photography Tour in Minahasa Highland

Minahasa highland is a great destination for visitors who love birding and wildlife photography.

Mount Mahawu and Subdistrict Sonder are two important birding destination in this part of  North Sulawesi Province of Indonesia.

The tropical rainforest of Minahasa highland is the habitat of various species of birds such as Japanese White-eye, Black-crowned White-eye, Sulawesi Myzomela, Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, Crimson Sunbird, Sulawesi Cuckoo-dove, Superb Fruit-dove, Red-eared Fruit-dove, Collared Kingfisher, Scaly-breasted Kingfisher, Gray-cheeked Green Pigeon, Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, Citrine Canary Flycatcher, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Sulawesi Bush Warbler, and etc. 

Collared Kingfisher, Gray-sided Flowerpecker, Pygmy Woodpecker, Sulawesi Hanging Parrot, Pale Blue Monarch, Warbling White-eye

Yellow-billed Malkoha

There are several birding sites in Minahasa including Mount Mahawu, Sonder Farm Forest, Sonder Rice Field, Lake Linow.

Water birds and ground walking birds that can be seen in Lake Linow and rice field area include White-browed Crake, Buff-banded Rail, Barred Rail, Cinnamon Bittern, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, White-breasted Waterhen, Isabeline Bush-hen, Purple Heron, and etc. There are also other birds such as White-breasted Woodswallow, Barn Swallow, White-nest Swiftlet, Collared Kingfisher, Chestnut Munia, Scaly-breasted Munia that birdwatchers can observe in the rice field environment.

The transitional zone between lower elevation and higher elevation forest is good for watching such birds as Pale Blue Monarch, Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo, Yellow-billed Malkoha, Black-naped Oriole, and etc. 

The birding and wildlife photography tour in Minahasa highland can be combined with trip to Tangkoko Nature Reserve. The duration of these tours are 7 days/ 6 nights. 

If you are interested in taking birding tour in Minahasa highland and want me to organize your tour and guide you, please, contact: Charlea Roring by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Also read: 

• Tangkoko Birding Tour
• Snorkeling Holiday in Raja Ampat

Tangkoko Birding Tour

Birding in Tangkoko Nature Reserve and the Minahasa Highlands

North Sulawesi is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems for birdwatchers. From the lowland rainforest of Tangkoko Nature Reserve to the cool montane forests of the Minahasa Highlands, this region offers an unforgettable experience for birders of all levels.

Knobbed Hornbill

🦜 Tangkoko Nature Reserve: Lowland Birding Paradise

Located near Bitung, about 90 minutes from Manado, Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve covers over 8,700 hectares of pristine lowland rainforest. The reserve is famous for its biodiversity, not just mammals like tarsiers and macaques, but especially for its incredible variety of birds.

Top Birds to Watch in Tangkokog

• Green-backed Kingfisher – Sulawesi endemic, commonly seen in the lowland forest canopy.
• Knobbed Hornbill – A majestic symbol of Sulawesi’s wildlife.
• Lilac Kingfisher – Colorful and often seen in forested ravines.
• Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher – Tiny and elusive, a treat to spot near streams.
• White-necked Myna – Elegant and vocal, seen in open areas and tree tops.

Early morning walks with a local guide increase your chances of spotting these incredible species. The lush forest, morning light, and bird calls create an unforgettable birding atmosphere.

🏞️ Minahasa Highlands: Highland Species in a Scenic Setting

The Minahasa Highlands, just south of Manado, offer cooler temperatures and a unique bird community. Volcanic peaks like Mount Mahawu and the agricultural landscapes around Tomohon and Sonder make this region perfect for montane and open-area birding.

Some birds in Minahasa Highland; Black-naped Oriole, Japanese White-eye, White-breasted Woodswallow, Pale Blue Monarch, Crimson Sunbird, Collared Kingfisher, Sooty-headed Bulbul

Bird Highlights in the Highlands:

• Scaly-breasted Kingfisher – A rarely seen species that lives in dense montane forests.
• Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher – A stunning blue bird commonly found in the undergrowth.
• Crimson Sunbird – Nectar-feeding beauty with brilliant red and green plumage.
• Sulawesi Hanging Parrot – Often seen in flocks, feeding on fruiting trees.
• Black-naped Oriole – Bright and melodic, often in forest edges and gardens.

The best times to go birding are just after sunrise or late afternoon, when birds are most active. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and valleys while listening to the songs of highland species.

🧭 Travel Tips for Birders

• Best season: May to October (dry season)
• Essentials: Binoculars, field guide/app, lightweight clothing, insect repellent
• Local guides: Highly recommended for identifying bird calls and finding rare species
• Accommodation: Eco-lodges in Tangkoko and guesthouses in Tomohon or Sonder

🌿 Final Thoughts

Whether you're an experienced birder or just curious about Sulawesi’s wildlife, a visit to Tangkoko Nature Reserve and the Minahasa Highlands will be a highlight of your Indonesian journey. With their rich mix of endemic species and dramatic landscapes, these destinations offer some of the best birdwatching in all of Southeast Asia.

Have you been birding in Sulawesi? Planning a trip?

Share your experiences or questions in the comments below! 🐦👇

Need help planning your trip? Please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Also read: 

• Birdwatching and Photography Tour in Minahasa Highland

Explore Sorong City

Sorong is the capital city of Papua Barat Daya (South West Papua) Province of Indonesia. It is the main gate for visitors who travel to Raja Ampat islands and Tambrauw mountains. For visitors who have extra 1 or 2 days in this city, they can explore the nature of the city or the streets and alleyways of Sorong and meet its people. The first place that I highly recommend to visit is Dom island. It is just around 10 minutes by water taxi. There are old houses and buildings in Doom. Doom is a small island with quite crowded population. 

Explore Sorong City and Its Surrounding

Doom used to be the administrative center of the Dutch. When Indonesia officially took over the control of West Papua on 1 May 1963, the administrative center was relocated to main Sorong city. 

Visitors could see old Dutch buildings mixed with houses of peoples in Doom island. There are fishermen's boats, water taxi and other marine vehicles which visitors could see in Doom. 

In addition to Doom, visitors can visit traditional markets that exist in Sorong to see various kinds of goods that people buy and sell in the market. 

For anyone who wants to have a good look Sorong city from a high point, the recommended site is Malanu hill. Visitors need to walk to reach the viewpoint. 

Birding in the forest near Sorong city

Another interesting place which tourists can visit is mangrove forest. It is the habitat of various species of birds including Olive-backed Sunbird, Sacred Kingfisher, Brown-backed Honeyeater, White-bellied Cuckooshrike, Orange-fronted Fruit Dove, and White-breasted Woodswallow. To enjoy birdwatching, visitors need to bring binoculars or cameras with telephoto lens. 

Visitors who like singing can visit karaoke parlours and sing with friends or accompanied by special attendants that are provided by the karaoke parlours. There is also cafe at the top of a hotel where visitors can enjoy having tea or coffee while looking at the cityscape or the night's sky of the city. 

Visitors who are interested in culture can go to places like the Christ the King Cathedral of Sorong city to see its unique architectural design that is inspired by the bower structure of Vogelkop Bowerbird. Male Vogelkop Bowerbird decorates his bower with flowers, moss and other colorful articles to attract his female mating partner.

Cathedral Church Christ the King in Sorong city

If you are interested in exploring Sorong city and want me to organize your tour and guide you, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com

Birding and Snorkeling in Raja Ampat

I have organized numerous birding, wildlife-watching, snorkeling and sightseeing trips in Raja Ampat, Sorong and Tambrauw for visitors who are interested in seeing the biodiversity of rainforest and coral reef ecosystem of these regencies. 

Eclectus Parrot

Near Sorong city, visitors could watch Willie Wagtail, Olive-backed Sunbird, Orange-fronted Sunbird, Sacred Kingfisher, Brown-backed Honeyeater, White-bellied Cuckooshrike, and White-breasted Woodswallow.  Sometimes introduced species from other islands in Indonesia could be seen in the sub-urban area of Sorong. They are the birds that escaped from cages of city dwellers. Some of them include Spotted Dove, Scaly-breasted Munia, and etc. 

When we go deeper into the forest of Sorong regency, we will be able to watch more interesting birds including Golden Myna, Yellow-faced Myna, Boyer's Cuckooshrike, Lowland Peltop, Black-sided Robin, Common Paradise Kingfisher, Helmetted Friarbird and a lot more.

Rainbow Bee-eater

I always combine the rainforest birding tour in Raja Ampat with sightseeing and snorkeling tour. The birds that can be seen in this island include White-bellied Cuckooshrike, Red-cheeked Parrot, Shining Flycatcher, Blyth's Hornbill, Eclectus Parrot, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra and a lot more. For snorkeling, marine creatures that can be seen include Christmas Tree Worm, Anemone, Sea Urchin, and various kinds of reef fish. Visitors should bring their own snorkeling gear.  There are hotels, beach resort and homestays in Sorong and Raja Ampat. I could arrange your accommodation during the tour. 

Anemonefish

The entry point for taking this tour is Sorong city. You could fly from your country to Jakarta or Denpasar Bali and then continue your flight to Sorong city. I could meet you at the airport or hotel of Sorong and then organize your trip around this region.

Flight Route to Sorong City

Please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com

Also read:

• Raja Ampat Snorkeling Trip

Available in Redbubble shop as printed art on t-shirt, mini-skirt, mugs, pillow, framed art print, and etc. at the following link: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/24790742

Birdwatching in the Forest of Sansapor

Sansapor is a small coastal town in Tambrauw regency. It is a great destination for visitors who like to explore tropical rainforest to watch birds and other animals. Birds such as Blyth's Hornbill, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Palm Cockatoo, Hooded Butcherbird, Mimic Meliphaga, Black-capped Lory, Eclectus Parrot, Western-crowned Pigeon and a lot more can be watched in Sansapor. The same forest is also the habitat of snakes, soa-soa monitor lizard and colourful butterflies. 

Palm Cockatoo

Golden Myna

Visitors who are interested in watching birds and wildlife in Sansapor need at least 4 to 6 days of their holiday in Tambrauw regency. Between April and September, the sea of Sansapor is quite calm, it is a favorable time to enjoy snorkeling. Coral reef of Sansapor is the natural habitat of anemonefish, parrotfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and etc.

Underwater picture from Sausapor

After spending a few days in Sansapor, visitors can continue their trip to Fef town in Tambrauw regency where they can watch Lesser Birds of paradise, Emperor Fairywren, Sacred Kingfisher, Yellow-faced Myna, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Papuan Mountain Pigeon, Pink-spotted Fruit Dove, Long-billed Cuckoo, and etc.

During the Pacific War, the American forces built military base in Amsterdam and Middleburg islands as well as the airtrips in Sansapor to fight the Imperial Japanese Forces in the region. Now the Sansapor town is a peaceful town and is a suitable destination for visitors who like to spend their holiday in tropical beach of West Papua.

Accommodation

There is a beach resort that visitors can choose to stay during their birdwatching and snorkeling trip in Sansapor.

Beach Resort in Sansapor

If you are interested in traveling to Sansapor and want me to organize your trip and guide you, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Wildlife Watching in Susnguakti Forest of Manokwari

There are a lot of places in West Papua province of Indonesia where visitors can go to watch Birds of Paradise, possum, monitor lizard and butterflies. 

One of them is Susnguakti forest in Manokwari regency. Visitors usually spend 3 days/ 2 nights in a basecamp that is built for visitors. 

Lesser Birds of Paradise in Susnguakti forest of Manokwari

During the day, they can walk in the jungle to find such birds as Common Paradise Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Rufous-bellied Kookaburra, Black-billed Fruit Dove, Eclectus Parrot, Golden Cuckooshrike, Pink-spotted Fruit Dove, Blyth's Hornbill, King Bird of Paradise, Magnificent Riflebird, and Lesser Birds of Paradise. 

Butterflies such as Silky Owl Butterfly, Cruiser Butterfly, and Blue Mountain Swallowtail butterfly can also be watched in the forest. 

Cuscus Possum in Susnguakti forest

Staying in the forest of Susnguakti, visitors can do night walk to watch Cuscus Possum, Papuan Forest Dragon and various kinds of insects. 

Visitors need to bring binoculars, flashlight and camera for the wildlife watching tour in Susnguakti forest of Manokwari.

For further info, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Birdwatching in Wondama Regency of Indonesia

Wondama is the name of a regency in West Papua province of Indonesia. It is a great destination for visitors who are interested in birdwatching and wildlife watching. The capital of Wondama is Rasiei which is an integrated part of Wasior town. 

Golden Myna

There are several birding sites that are good for visitors. The nortern tip of Wondama peninsula, Wondiboy mountains and Naikere forest is the most recommended destination for visitors. There are a lot of birds that visitors can watch there. Here are some of them:

• Lesser Birds of Paradise
• King Bird of Paradise
• Magnificent Riflebird
• Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise
• Magnificent Riflebird
• Glossy-mantled Manucode
• Lowland Peltop
• Black-capped Lorry
• Eclectus Parrot
• New Guinea Vulturine Parrot
• Red-cheeked Parrot
• Large Fig Parrot 

• Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
• Palm Cockatoo
• Blyth's Hornbill

• Yellow-billed Kingfisher
• Common Paradise Kingfisher
• Rufous-bellied Kookaburra
• Sacred Kingfisher
• Azure Kingfisher
• Spangled Drongo
• Hooded Butcherbird
• Black Butcherbird
• White-bellied Sea Eagle
• Pinon Imperial Pigeon
• Purple-tailed Imperial Pigeon
• Beautiful Fruit Dove
• Red Myzomella
• White-bellied Sea Eagle
• Brahminy Kite
• Lesser Frigatebird
• Willie Wagtail
• Common Tern
• Pacific Swallow
• Hooded Pitta
• Moustached Treeswift
• Red-bellied Pitta
• Brown Cuckoo Dove
• Great Cuckoo Dove
• Golden Myna
• Yellow-faced Myna
• White-bellied Cuckooshrike
• Rufous Owl
• Sooty Owl
• Papuan Frogmouth
• and a lot more

Eclectus Parrot

Birdwatching trip to Wondama regency can be done all year round. Visitors need to bring binoculars, spotting scope and sound recording of bird calls from New Guinea. 

It is easy to reach Wasior town of Wondama regency. First, visitors need to fly from their country to Jakarta or Denpasar or other major cities in Indonesia. There are regular daily flights which connect these cities with Manokwari city (the capital of West Papua province). From Manokwari city, visitors can go by passenger ferry to Wasior town or by small single turboprop airplane, Cessna Caravan 208, operated by Susi Air. 

Location of Wondama regency

For accommodation, there are hotels, lodges or Inns and guesthouses in Wasior town. However, for birding purposea, visitors need to stay in simple homestays on the villages which are closer to the forest. 

If you are interested in taking birdwatching tour to Wondama regency of Indonesia, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher

Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher

The first time I saw Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher was when I guided some tourists on a birding tour in Klasow valley of Sorong regency. This Kingfisher was sitting in a small tree at its lowest branch around 2 meters above the ground. I did not pay attention to it at that time. I was watching Lesser Birds of Paradise (Paradisaea minor) dancing in high branches of some trees in front of me. Suddenly a villager named Daniel Kalami called me and showed me the bird. I turned and aimed my camera at the bird. 

Several weeks ago, I guided 4 American tourists on a birding tour to Tambrauw regency which was located between Sorong and Manokwari. I saw the bird again. This time it was sitting in a high branch around 5 meters above the ground. Fortunately, I brought my telephoto camera the Canon 200D with Tamron 150-600 mm G2 lens. I adjusted my position so that I could see the bird through a small window among thick green leaves of the surrounding trees. Carefully, I aimed my camera and shot the bird several times. 

Yellow-faced Myna

There were a lot of other birds that we saw during the rainforest birdwatching and wildlife watching tour in Tambrauw forest including:

• Palm Cockatoo, (Probosciger aterrimus)
• Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, 
• Long-tailed Buzzard, 
• Brahminy Kite, 
• Pinon Imperial Pigeon, 
• Orange-bellied Fruit Dove, 
• Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise, 
• Lesser Birds of Paradise 
• Large Fig Parrot, 
• Eclectus Parrot, 
• Red-cheeked Parrot
• Black-capped Lory
• Black Lory
• Grey Crow, 
• Marbled Frogmouth (Podargus ocellatus)
• Hooded Pitta, 
• Azure Kingfisher, 
• Blyth's Hornbill, 
• Red-cheeked Parrot,
• White-bellied Cuckooshrike,
• Black Sunbird
• Helmetted Friarbird and etc.

Because I brought my Kinglux 20-60×60mm spotting scope, I was able to show the beautiful birds to my American clients during the tour. It was not a professional scope but it was good enough for watching birds, wild animals or flowers in distant trees. I also played a few sounds of the above birds to attract them. We stayed in the houses of the villagers.

If you are interested in taking rainforest tour that is organized from Sorong city to Tambrauw forest please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

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Kingfishers
Azure Kingfisher

King Bird of Paradise

King Bird of Paradise (Cicinnurus regius) is a small paradise bird that lives among hanging vines of a tree in the forest of New Guinea. It lives mostly in lowland and lower montane forest and has got red back and wings with white belly. His bill is yellowish orange.
I have watched the birds a lot of time in Susnguakti forest of Manokwari. The birds are usually active in the mornings from 7 to 10 and in the afternoons from 3 to 6. If the weather is bad he may not come out to dance or he may show up later.
King Birds of Paradise call his female counterpart before performing his courtship dance. If the female King BOP comes, he will jump up and down the vines and perform the dance. If she does not come, he will be reluctant to dance.

King Bird of Paradise

King Birds of Paradise in the rainforest of Manokwari

It is not easy to find the bird due to its small size. We have to follow its calling sounds. Sometimes he jumps and dances to lower branches or vines. Because of its small size, we need to use binoculars and spotting scope to watch the bird.
When I guide tourists to watch the bird, it is not only the King BOP that we will watch but also Lesser Birds of Paradise, Magnificent Riflebird, Common Paradise Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Frilled Monarch, Hooded Butcherbird, Fairy Lorikeet, Eclectus Parrot, Pink-spotted Fruit Dove, Spangled Drongo, Brown Cuckoo Dove, Yellow-capped Pygmy Parrot, Mimic Meliphaga, Black Sunbird, and a lot more.

Traveling to Raja Ampat Islands

Raja Ampat is an important destination for tourists who like tropical islands. They could enjoy swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, freediving, see beautiful seascape of karst islets like Wayag, Piaynemo, Fish Lagoon, Kofiau, and Misool. It is also a highly recommended travel destination for people who like to explore rainforest and see its wildlife. 

Kabui bay

Getting to Raja Ampat

It is easy to travel to Raja Ampat. First, you need to fly from your country to Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia). After that, you need to take a domestic flight by flying to Sorong city. Airlines such as Garuda, Sriwijaya, and Batik provide regular flights to Sorong.

Arriving at the airport, you need to go by airport taxi to Pelabuhan Rakyat (People's harbor). The cost per taxi is 100,000 rupiahs. Remember, the price is not per passenger but per taxi. You need to spend around 10,000 to 15,000 rupiahs (depending on the number of passengers in the taxi) for entrance fee to the harbor. At the passenger terminal, you could buy tickets there. The price is 100,000 per passenger for regular seat and around 210,000 rupiahs for VIP. It takes around 2 hours to reach Waisai harbor of Raja Ampat.

Accommodation

There are hotels and simple lodges in Waisai town (the capital of Raja Ampat) which you could choose to stay during your holiday in the islands. However, most tourists prefer to stay in beach resorts and homestays in southern area of Waigeo island or in other islands such as Gam, Mansuar, Kri, Arborek of the regency. One that I recommend is Raflow beach resort. It is located in southern coast of Waigeo. The beach resort has got beautiful house reef. 

Observing Marine Life

White sandy beach in Raja Ampat

You could enjoy swimming and snorkeling over the coral reef to see a lot of species of fish such as butterflyfish, damselfish, parrotfish, wrasse, moorish idol, blenny,  anemonefish, and even the unique scorpionfish, and even the tasselled wobbegong. There are also Christmas Tree Worms, Sea Stars and Burrowing Clams. Make sure you bring a good underwater camera that can take pictures of the marine life. I personally use Fujifilm XQ2  with waterproof case and Nikon AW130.

Watching Tropical Birds
If you like to watch birds, you can do it in Raflow Resort. The trees around the Raflow resort are frequently visited by Beautiful Fruit Dove, Palm Cockatoo, Sulphur-creasted Cockatoo, Eclectus Parrot, Pinon Imperial Pigeon, Claret-breasted Fruit Dove, Willie Wagtail, Red Bird of Paradise, Spangled Drongo, Beach Kingfisher, Brahminy Kite, Mimic Meliphaga, Puff-back Meliphaga, Blyth's Hornbill, Lesser-crested Tern, Sooty Tern, Eastern Reef Egret, Wimbrel. 

Red Bird of Paradise

A good pair of binoculars such as the Nikon Monarch 7 10×42, Leica Noctivid, Swarovski EL 50, can greatly enhance the birdwatching experience. I often guide tourists to watch birds in Raja Ampat. I bring my Visionking 20-60×60 spotting scope to watch birds that sit in the branches of high trees. 

Visiting karst islets in Piaynemo, Wayag, Kabui is also a nice thing to do. You could ask other guests who also stay in the Raflow resort to take the tour so that the cost can be shared.

Booking

If you are interested in traveling to Raja Ampat and want me to be your guide and arrange your tour, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.

Also read:

• Birding and Snorkeling in Raja Ampat
• Watching Red Bird of Paradise in Raja Ampat
• Northeast Raja Ampat Tour

Wildlife Tour in Raja Ampat

Red Bird of Paradise

The rainforest of Waigeo island is a good destination for visitors who want to see the wildlife of Raja Ampat. From previous trips that I organize for tourists, we saw a lot of beautiful birds such as Red Bird of Paradise, Wilson's Bird of Paradise, Moluccan King Parrot, Eclectus Parrot, Palm Cockatoo, Beautiful Fruit Dove, Pinon Imperial Pigeon, Pied Imperial Pigeon, Blyth's Hornbill, and Common Paradise Kingfisher and a lot more. Birds are usually active in the mornings and in the evenings. To watch them, we need to bring binoculars and if possible spotting scopes. Sometimes we go birding and wildlife watching by car to reach remote areas in eastern and southern region of Waigeo island. For visitors who want to watch White-bellied Sea Eagle, Beach Kingfisher, and Spice Imperial Pigeon, they could take a tour to Kabui bay. I organize sightseeing and birding tour by boat to the bay. 

Anemonefish in Raja Ampat

For taking pictures of wild animals in the forest, we need camera with telephoto lens. In the past, I used Nikon P500, Nikon P600, Fujifilm HS50EXR. Now I use Canon 200 D with 150-600 mm lens. Visitors who want to buy camera for taking pictures and videos of wildlife could buy such cameras as Nikon Coolpix P900, Nikon Coolpix P1000 or Canon SX70HS. Professional photographers usually bring D-SLR cameras with telephoto lens.

This birding and wildlife watching trip to Raja Ampat is combined with swimming and snorkeling activities where participants can see anemonefish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, wrasse, moorish idol, surgeonfish and a lot more.

Birds are not the only animals which we can see in the forest of Waigeo. If we are lucky, we can see ikaheka white snake which is very venomous, Idea durvillei butterfly, cuscus possum and soa-soa lizard.

Soa-soa Lizard of Waigeo island

For plants, there are a lot of flowers which we could find in the forest including Red Pitcher Plant of Kabui bay, Beach Hibiscus, and the Tiger Orchid.

Most often the rainforest wildlife watching tour that I organize is combined with snorkeling activities where tourists can swim over coral reef area to see tropical fish such as moorish idol, grouper, lionfish, butterflyfish and even the tasselled wobbegong. There are several beach areas that are suitable for snorkeling including Warduwer beach, Gam Karst, Friwen, Mioskon and Five Rocks. Bringing a waterproof camera such as Gopro, Nikon W300 will enhance the snorkeling experience. I use Fujifilm XQ2 with water housing and Nikon 130.

The duration of the wildlife tour in Raja Ampat can be as short as 3 days to as long as 2 weeks.

If you are interested in visiting Raja Ampat and want me to organize your tour, please, contact me by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com.
Also read:
Snorkeling at Warduwer beach of Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat Snorkeling
Birding Walk in Waigeo island

Snorkeling Tour in Raja Ampat

Snorkeling picture from Raja Ampat

I organize snorkeling tour for visitors who want to see the colorful fish and coral reef in Raja Ampat islands. There are a lot of species of fish which tour participants can see such as the anemonefish, wrasse, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, leopard blenny, sweetlips, parrotfish, and moorish idol. Some snorkeling sites that I recommend are:

• Warduwer beach - This is a beach that is located in southern region of Waigeo island. The reef flat area of the beach is flat and suitable for entry level snorkeler to enjoy the beautiful marine life of Raja Ampat. A beach resort called Raja Ampat Flow Resort is being built. Soon, it will be ready to serve tourists who want to visit the islands and stay in the resort.
• Mioskon - This is an uninhabited island near Waigeo and Gam Island. Visitors should come in a group of at least 2 to 4 people to share the cost. 
• Friwen
• Inner Gam
• Yenbuba strait
• West Mansuar
• Five Rocks

Snorkeling Gear - To enjoy snorkeling in Raja Ampat islands, I suggest that visitors bring their own snorkeling gears such as mask, snorkel, and fins so that they will be perfectly fit on to the faces, and feet of the snorkelers.
Underwater camera - Taking pictures of fish, and other marine creatures can now be done using waterproof cameras such as Nikon W300, Nikon AW130, Fujifilm XQ2 with waterhousing, Fujifilm XP80, Olympus TG-6. Action camera such as the GoPro Hero 7, or Sony Cybershot DSC RX0 II is an ideal photographic device for snorkeling enthusiasts.
If you plan to enjoy snorkeling and want me to be your guide, please, contact us by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com

Also read:

• Birding and Snorkeling in Raja Ampat