A traveler named Charles Roring wrote his experience after visiting Arfak. Tropical rain forests in the Arfak Mountains have long attracted foreign tourists. They visit the area to see the animals and plants that are the endemic species of New Guinea in the region. Located in the southern city of Manokwari - the capital of West Papua Province, Arfak Mountains can be reached by motorcycle or car.
Flora and fauna in lowland areas are different from those living in the highlands. For example, magnificent birds of paradise and bower birds are commonly found on slopes close to mountain peaks. For tourists who want to see tree kangaroos, hornbills and white sulphur-crested cockatoo, the recommended destination is beach villages like Warkapi, Hangow or Ransiki districts.
Last week, I did a short tour along the coastal villages from Lake Kabori, Maruni, Mupi, Warkapi, Hangow, Oransbari and Ransiki. I took a DAMRI bus operated by a state-owned company. The condition of the rain forest in the area is still very good. From private observation, the area on the edge of the village has been cleared for the clearing of kasbi fields, and taro, staple food in Papua or formerly known as the Netherlands New Guinea.
In January 2010 three Russian tourists went to Warkapi. They did bird watching along a watery river near the village of Warkapi. From the photos and stories they tell me, birds can be easily seen as flying through the trees when observed from the open areas created around the river or river.
Bird watching activity in tropical forests is usually difficult when done in the forest, especially when we walk through the thick trees under the forest canopy. Sunlight can not easily penetrate the green packed canopy. To take photographs of birds, we need a long lens camera. Do not forget to bring an extra battery because the electricity is not always available.
I always carry large plastic bags in my bag pocket to protect electronic equipment when it rains. Walking at night, guided by locals, can also be done in Warkapi if tourists want to see night animals like cuscus and owls.