INTRODUCTION TO WEST PAPUA

Dear Travellers,

West Papua (formerly Irian Jaya) lies between Australia and the equator in the pacific ocean. West Papua is the western half of the huge island of New Guinea. It is also the easternmost part of the Indonesian archipelago. West Papua is a fascinating land that is unique in the world. More than 400 distinct tribes and local languages are still in existence. Among them are the Asmat, Dani, Lani, Yali, Kimyal, Koroway-Kombey, Mek, Wano, Nduame, lelome, and Ekari tribes.

West Papua has spectacular flora and fauna, mountains and glaciers. Irian Jaya is renowned for its exotic cultures and its primitive ways of life, particularly on the southern coast and in the central highlands. It is possible to observe and participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals that have been carried out unchanged since time immemorial.

We would like to invite you personally, or in groups, to explore our island and to witness how wild, adventurous, and interesting our homeland is. We will take you to the little-known and isolated tribes who reside in remote areas of West Papua and to anywhere else you want to go. You will be shown the mountains, rivers and forests by people who grew up there. It is an eco-tourism experience like no other.

We would like to introduce you to the many adventures possible here in West Papua and to organise a trip according to your preferences. We specialise in multi-day treks of up to a month as well as organised tours of West Papua's less remote attractions. Our primary expertise is in the Asmat region; the Koroway-Kombay and Mamberamo regions on the northern coast, and Baliem Valley in the central highlands. We offer wildlife and bird watching, a rafting tour, exploring the life of the primitive people, mountain climbing, and a wide range of other activities. Kobela's director, Isaac Wandikbo, and our other guides have guided hundreds of European, American, Australian and Asian guests through the special places of West Papua.

We hope it will be a great experience and an unforgettable trip for you.We handle your paperwork and travel permits while ensuring you have access to knowledgeable English speaking guides. The difficulties of travelling in West Papua disappear with our local expertise.

Please do not hesitate to contact us. We will always welcome you with pleasure.

Thank you and welcome to West Papua.

Yours sincerely,

Isaac Wandikbo

Director, Kobela Tours