The Uniqueness of Um Island in West Papua That You'll Be Amazed

There are many small islands that you can find while in West Papua. One that is unique is Um Island. The island is uninhabited by humans but is home to thousands of bats. In addition, there are many more unique things that tourists can find when visiting Papua. If you are curious about this island, find out more information below.

About Um Island

When you hear the name, tourists can feel the uniqueness of this island. In the Sorong language, Um means bat because the original inhabitants were indeed the animal. More than that, this island turns out to have other unique fauna. You can find birds of paradise and tree kangaroos. As a result, this island is a habitat for rare fauna in Papua.

Its location, which is not far from Malaumkarta Raya Village, Sorong Regency, makes the residents guard it. Knowing that wild animals inhabit an island, the villagers have agreed not to disturb the survival of the herd of fauna there. As a result, fauna in West Papua can be maintained in their natural authenticity and preserve their natural habitat.

Even long before Um Island was crowded with tourists, the residents of Malaumkarta Raya did not disturb the bat resting place during the day. The local people let them breed until now. The community realizes that it is essential to maintain biodiversity for the lives of their descendants in the future.

In other words, Um Island is an island that has a natural ecosystem. The underwater beauty is also no less attractive when compared to the surrounding natural scenery. At this location, you can be satisfied walking around enjoying the island's beauty and its beaches. You can also visit the Um Island ecosystem with the help of a tour guide.

Um Island Attractions

1. Beach

One thing is for sure, Um Island has clean seasides since many tourists come because of the beaches. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Papua by sitting in a relaxed manner without being disturbed by the presence of scattered garbage. The island is clean because not many tourists stop there. Transportation is also limited because it can only be accessed by boat.

2. Habitat for Birds of Paradise and Bats

Photo by Sid Balachandran on Unsplash

Another aspect that makes this island in West Papua famous is its fauna habitat. Lots of coastal trees can be used to shelter tourists. More than that, the trees are also home to birds of paradise, seagulls, and bats. The beasts come out alternately to make the Um island sky never lonely.

Meanwhile, bats appear at night to move. So, after watching Papua's endemic birds, bats will appear. This is also the icon of Um Island. Almost in all parts of the island, there are bats. You can feel a unique view when you visit Papua to have an unforgettable time.

3. Protected Marine Ecosystem

This island is also not only known as the habitat of the step fauna. But also, the tourists can try new experiences by diving and snorkeling. This island spot is home to small fish on the reef. Thus, there are many fish swimming around the island of Um. So, you will love your visit while on Um Island because of the beauty of the preserved marine ecosystem.

Facilities Available on Um Island

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 16-1-Pikiran-Rakyat.jpeg

So far, there is not much information related to Um Beach that you can find on the internet about West Papua. It also relates to the facilities that you can use on the island. However, according to the news that has been gathered, public facilities are already available on Um Island. You can find toilet facilities, shops, and stalls in Malaumkarta Village.

In addition, several tourism parties provide complete packages to destinations in Papua. One of them is by visiting Um Island using a tour guide. So, you don't have to worry about getting lost while on vacation. There are complete facilities, ranging from transportation by boat and directions which will take you to your destination.

Not only that, but you can also get exclusive rights to swim at the beach. In addition, snorkeling and diving opportunities cannot be missed. You can easily rent the equipment to tour parties around the island. As a result, you can enjoy a series of activities while on Um Island as the primary choice.

In fact, many tourists from abroad visit this tour to try snorkeling and diving. They want to see firsthand the natural beauty of the pristine underwater world. So, the water is clean, and the calm beach can provide an exciting vacation reference. It is not surprising that the Um Island area of ​​West Papua always has a charming charm.

Overall, Um Island has a uniqueness that cannot be found in other areas. There is fauna in the form of bats and rare birds of paradise. In addition, the natural beauty of the surrounding area is still beautiful and attracts many visitors from regional and international areas. In addition, the calm seawater provides an opportunity for visitors to do activities around Um Island.