Batanta Island is one of the most fascinating islands in West Papua. The island is
like a virgin island because there are still many areas of the island waiting
for exploration. The island is blanketed with pristine rainforest. Hence, it is
one of the islands in West Papua that is valuable to be explored. The island is
not too large. Even, you can see the mountains which are near the coast. You
can easily access the mountain from the beach. If you want to explore the
entire island, you can even travel by boat. The boat can take you to the inside
of the island through the river. The people of Batanta still firmly hold their
traditional way of life, including their traditional architecture and their
daily life principle.
Location
Batanta
Island is situated in the west of Sorong, the mainland city near Raja Ampat.
The island is one the four main islands in the archipelago of Raja Ampat. The area of Batanta is about 453 km² with the highest
point reaches 1184 m. You can reach the island by sea transportation.
However, reaching the island is quite difficult. This is actually an irony, as
in fact, there are many Pelni Ships travelling to Sorong from ternate. The
Pelni Ships even sail really close along the southern coast of the island.
However, it is hardly difficult to find a boat that is willing to stop by
Batanta. There are only a few odd Perintis ships as well as boats stop by. The
only easiest way to reach the island is by renting a cheaper boat from
Sorong.
Activities
As
the island is like a virgin island, there are many exciting activities you can
do here. Most activities are actually suitable for those who love exploration.
Among the activities you can do include, hiking, bird-watching, diving and
snorkeling. For hikers, Batanta offers exciting prospects. Recreational hiking
is surely unknown here as the area around the mountain has not been developed
optimum. However, you can ask local people there to guide you to do bird-watching
in the forest. Bird-watching is an interesting activity as you can find various
species of birds, including sulphur-crested cockatoos, palm cockatoo and cassowary. For diving and snorkeling, there are many good spots
available. Nevertheless, the only place equipped with diving facilities is the
only resort in the island. Thus, only guests are welcomed to dive with them
Accommodations
You
can stay at Seahorse Paradise Resort when you visit the island. The resort is owned by a
Hungarian. It lies in the northeastern coast of Batanta. This is the only
resort in Batanta. Although it is the only resort, the facilities here are
complete. Visitors will be served with exclusive facilities. The resort
provides cruise ships to dive and all facilities to dive for visitors. Apart
from the resort, visitors can also stay in bungalows around Batanta. The
bungalows cannot be booked online as they are managed by local people.
Travelling
to the island will give you the most exciting experience in your life. You will
have an unforgettable experience in this incredible Batanta Island.
