The town of Fak-Fak resides on the west coast of West Papua Province in Western Papua. It’s a bit of a historical town in lush surroundings and is gateway to this part of Papua for those arriving by boat.
Fak-Fak is a sizeable town that is spit into districts and villages, also encompassing the mining district of Freeport. Fak-Fak was taken by the Japanese in WWII and has a poignant monument commemorating the people that died at their hand. Another monument - Perjuangan Merah Putih - was built on nearby Tubir Seram Island in 1969 and comes with a stunning landscaped garden.
Located along the riverbank within a couple hours’ walking distance of Fak-Fak, or 10 minutes by boat, is a beautiful waterfall in nearby Pasir Putih village. It’s a great place to come for bathing and has fine views over the area. Being on the coast, Fak-Fak also has access to excellent diving territory.
Fakfak is situated on the southwestern coast of the Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua. The region features a diverse landscape, including rugged coastlines, dense tropical rainforests, and limestone karst formations. The climate is tropical, with high humidity and temperatures averaging between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round. The wet season runs from November to April, bringing heavy rainfall, while the dry season from May to October offers more favorable conditions for travel and outdoor activities.
When to Go
The best time to visit Fakfak is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, the weather is more stable, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. The wet season can bring heavy rainfall and rough seas, making travel and exploration more challenging.
Things to Do
- Scuba Diving: There are loads of spots up and down the west coast near to fak-fak where deep caves harbor all sorts of life.
- Cultural Experiences: Fakfak is home to various indigenous communities. Visitors can learn about the local customs, traditional dances, and craftsmanship.
- Hiking: Hiking through the rainforests and along the coastline provides stunning views and encounters with wildlife.
- Birdwatching: Is also popular, with the chance to see rare and endemic species.
Getting There
Reaching Fakfak requires some effort due to its remote location. The nearest major airport is in Sorong, which has connections to other parts of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. From Sorong, travelers can take a domestic flight to Fakfak. Alternatively, boat services are available, although they can be less frequent and more time-consuming.