Arfak mountains
The spectacular Arfak mountains, on the eastern corner of the Vogelkop peninsula rise steeply behind the coastal town of Manokwari. Dissected by roaring torrents and sheer, steep-sided valley gorges, trekking into the Arfaks takes stamina, but the effort is rewarded with sightings of some spectacular species only found in the mountains of the Vogelkop Peninsula.
Key species
Magnificent Bird-of-paradise
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Wattled Brush-turkey, Vogelkop Whistler, Vogelkop Bwerbird, Long-tailed Paradigalla, Buff-tailed and Black Sicklebills, Arfak Astrapia, Western Parotia, Magnificent Bird-of-paradise.Getting there
Manokwari to Mokwam
The Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) flies every week or two to Wokwam but more frequently to Minyambou, which is an easy few hour’s walk from Mokwam. They will try to schedule a flight to suit your timing if given several day’s notice, but it is very difficult to contact them other than in person; WWF or a travel agent may be able to help. The cost is very reasonable and depends on the total weight of the party and luggage. It is unlikely to exceed $50 a journey! Their hangar and operations are located on the far side of the airport.
Accommodation
There is virtually no accommodation or food in the Arfaks. However, the porters/guides are adept at building waterproof shelters so it is fesible to manage without a tent. At Mokwam it may be possible to stay in the WWF hut, if pre-arranged with WWF, a valuable source of information-and possibly assistance-in manokwari.
General information
The permit or surat jalan is most conveniently arranged in Jayapura (at Sentani Airport, at the police/immigration office just outside the terminal) or Biak. You may need an endorsement to travel outside Manokwari, so report to the local police on arrival.
Porters are easily hired in Mokwam to carry luggage, food and cooking utensils, all of which you should bring with you. The guides can show you good birds around Mokwam, eg Long-tailed Paradigalla and Western Parotia on Siobri, and the spectacular bowers of Arfak Bowerbird.
Rain occurs most days throughout the year, especially in the afternoon and evening. It is warm/hot every day but can be quite cool at night on or near the ridge. There are a few leeches and mosquitos.
taken from Birding indonesia. Periplus Publishing. Singapore