Jungle Tour in Sorong Regency

Hiking in Sorong forest of West Papua

Sorong city has been a famous hub for visitors who want to go to Raja Ampat - the best tourist destination in the world for scuba diving. In fact, not all of the visitors who go to West Papua are diving enthusiasts. There are also a lot of tourists who are interested in trekking in the jungle of Sorong to see wild animals, trees, flowers, and butterflies, or swim at a river and meet the indigenous Papuan people.

There is a forest area near Sorong regency. Its name is Klasow valley and can be reached by a 4WD car. It is located in the east of the city. It takes approximately 1 hour by car and another hour on foot to reach it.
As a tourist guide, I have arranged trips for tourists who are interested in exploring the tropical rainforest of Klasow valley. Most of them stay for 3 days/ 2 nights or 4 days/ 3 nights.

Western Crowned Pigeon (Goura cristata) in the jungle of Klasow valley

They go there to see rainforest ecosystem. During the days, they go trekking to watch birds and see herbal plants and trees whose woods and leaves are used by local people as construction materials. And at nights, they walk in the jungle to watch wallaby. 

While staying in the village jungle of Klasow valley, they can go trekking to explore the rich biodiversity of the rainforest or they can enjoy swimming at many of its rivers.

Large Fig Parrot in the jungle of Klasow valley

The tropical rainforest of Klasow valley is a recommended site for birdwatchers who want to watch lesser birds of paradise, blyth's hornbill, sulphur crested cockatoo, golden myna, western crowned pigeon, pinon imperial pigeon, dollar bird, goliath cockatoo, paradise rifle bird and many tropical birds that make the jungle of New Guinea as their home.

Lesser Bird of Paradise

The forest of Klasow valley is also the natural habitat of wallaby ( a kind of small kangaroo), cuscus possum, deer, wild pigs, soa-soa lizards, and snakes. There is a village inside the valley near Klabolo stream. Tourists who stay in the village will be able to explore the forest edge to watch a lot of colorful butterflies. Klasow valley is flat. It is a tourist destination that is easy to be explored by visitors who cannot climb steep slopes of Papua's mountains.

To book your jungle tour in Sorong regency, please, contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180.

Also read:

• Sorong city Sightseeing and Birding Attractions
• Birding and Sightseeing in Sorong and Raja Ampat
• Birding near Sorong city
• Sorong Birding and Raja Ampat Snorkeling
• Short Birding Tour in Sorong City
• Orchid in Raja Ampat

Birdwatching in the Minahasa Highlands: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Nestled in the heart of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, the Minahasa Highlands are a paradise not just for scenic mountain lovers but also for birdwatchers seeking to encounter rare and endemic species. From lush montane forests to tranquil crater lakes and farmlands, this region offers a spectacular array of bird habitats—and an unforgettable birding experience.
Why Choose Minahasa Highlands for Birdwatching?
The Minahasa Highlands are part of Sulawesi, an island famed for its high rate of endemism. Over 330 bird species have been recorded here, nearly a third of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The cooler mountain air and beautiful landscapes also make it one of the most comfortable and scenic birding regions in Indonesia.

Sulawesi Hanging Parrot

Best Birding Sites in the Highlands
1. Sonder and Tounelet Forest
Located about an hour’s drive from Manado, the town of Sonder is surrounded by forest edges, hills, and farmland. In the early mornings, birdwatchers can spot species such as:
Sulawesi Hanging Parrot
Pale Blue Monarch
Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker
Mountain White-eye
Black-crowned White-eye
Crimson Sunbird
Sooty-headed Bulbul
Black-naped Oriole
Evening birding walks may reward visitors with views of the elusive Sulawesi Scops Owl and other nocturnal birds.

Mountain White-eye

2. Mount Mahawu
A dormant volcano near Tomohon, Mount Mahawu is covered with montane forest that hosts:
Crimson Sunbird
Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher
Turquoise Flycatcher
Sulawesi Drongo
Sulawesi Leaf Warbler
White-faced Cuckoo-dove
Superb Fruit Dove
This area is ideal for more experienced birders aiming to spot highland endemics.
3. Lake Linow near Lahendong
These crater lakes offer a different birding experience, featuring open water and marshy habitats. Visitors may encounter:
Wandering Whistling Duck
Gray Teal
Barred Rail
Purple Heron
Little Egret
Gray-rumped Treeswift
The lakeside scenery also makes this a great location for photography and relaxing birdwatching.

4. Farmland and Rice Fields
The agricultural zones around Sonder and Tomohon provide a contrasting habitat, attracting:
Collared Kingfisher
White-breasted Woodswallow
Cattle Egret
Eastern Yellow Wagtail
Chestnut Munia
Scaly-breasted Munia
White-browed Crake
Cinnamon Bittern
These areas are best explored early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Unique Endemic Species to Watch For
Minahasa Masked Owl
Matinan Blue Flycatcher
Satanic Nightjar
Sulawesi Myzomela
Hair-crested Drongo (White-eyed form)
Minahasa Hooded Pitta
These special species are on every birder’s Sulawesi wishlist and highlight the conservation importance of the region.
When to Visit
The dry season (May to September) is the best time for birdwatching, with clear skies and easier access to forest trails. However, birding is enjoyable year-round, especially in the early morning (06:00–09:30) and late afternoon (15:00–18:00) when bird activity peaks.
Practical Tips
🛫 Arrive via Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado.
🚗 Stay in Tomohon or Sonder, which offer both comfortable hotels and local homestays.
🔭 Bring binoculars (8×42 or 10×42), a camera with a telephoto lens, and a torch for night walks.
🧭 Hire a local birding guide to improve your chances of spotting rare species and navigating forest trails.
Beyond Birds: Butterflies and Scenery
Birding in Minahasa often comes with delightful surprises—colorful butterflies such as the Common Birdwing or Sulawesi Tree Nymph flutter through the gardens and forest trails. And while you search for birds, you’ll be treated to views of steaming volcanoes, vibrant flower farms, and unique Minahasan culture.
Final Thoughts
The Minahasa Highlands are one of Indonesia’s most underrated birding destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or a beginner with binoculars, this region promises stunning avian diversity, peaceful natural beauty, and genuine cultural warmth. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this birdwatching treasure.
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🦉 Have you visited Minahasa Highlands for birdwatching? Share your experience in the comments below!
📧 Need help organizing a birding trip here? Contact me (Charles Roring) by email to: peace4wp@gmail.com or by whatsapp to: +6281332245180.—I’ll be glad to help you plan routes, accommodations, and connect you with local guides.
 

Also read:

• Flower Tour in Minahasa Highland
• Birding and Wildlife Watching Tour in Tangkoko and Minahasa Highland
• Birdwatching in Sonder of Minahasa Highland
• Tropical Birds in Sonder of Minahasa Highland
• Birding Walk in the Farmland and Paddy Fields of Sonder Town
• Birdwatching in the Farmland of Sonder of Minahasa Highland
• Birding in Tangkoko Nature Reserve
• Birds in North Sulawesi
• Birdwatching Tour in the Farmland and Forest of Minahasa Highland