TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The easternmost region of Indonesia, Papua, is known for its stunning nature both in the ocean and on land. One of the region’s tourist attractions is Wasur National Park. The conservation site is home to hundreds of unique Papuan endemic wildlife species.

One of the most famous is the kangaroo. There are various endemic species of kangaroos, including the tree kangaroo which has become the inspiration for the National Games Week 2021 mascot in the region, or PON XX Papua. The figure, called Kangpho, is described as an arboreal kangaroo that wears an acorn made of bark on its waist and a typical Papuan sculpture.

Wasur National Park also has wetlands which are essential for waterbirds in Indonesia and migratory birds to and from Australia and New Zealand. Usually, many of these migratory birds migrate to Wasur National Park in October to seek warmth.

Not only birds, but also various fish can also be found in Wasur National Park, such as banded archerfish, yellow snapper and many more. As for reptiles, there are crocodiles, monitor lizards, Irian’s long-necked turtles, chameleons and many more.

In addition to the diversity of fauna, it also offers many tourist activities. For example, swimming in Biras Pool, camping at Wasur National Park Campground, enjoying the sunset while boating or swimming at Ndalir Beach, fishing at Rawa Biru, and shopping for crafts. in the villages of Wasur and Yanggandur.

In terms of local wisdom, Wasur National Park offers cultural tourism of 4 indigenous tribes namely Marori Men-Gey, Kanume, Yeinan and Malind Imbuti. Locals will perform dances and serve traditional dishes.

With an area of ​​304,000 hectares, Wasur National Park is included in 4 sub-districts of Merauke Regency, Papua. It can be reached in around 30 minutes from the city center.

Read: Ujung Kulon National Park off-limits to tourists for 14 days

Ninis Chairunnisa | Maudey K. Setyakusuma