Jayawijaya – The Baliem Valley and Dani Tribe Culture in the Heart of Papua
Jayawijaya se trouve dans Papua's central highlands, in the Jayawijaya montagne range. La capitale régionale est Wamena, the centre of the Baliem Valley. Jayawijaya is home to Puncak Jaya (Carstensz Pyramid, 4,884 m – the highest peak in Australasia), and the legendary Baliem Valley with the traditionnel lifestyle of the Dani Papuan tribe is one of Indonesia's most extraordinary cultural destinations.
Attractions et activités
The Baliem Valley (Lembah Baliem) surrounds Wamena: traditionnel Dani tribe villages with honai huts, ceremonial stone gardens and sweet potato terraces – the traditionnel mode de vie is a living reality here. The Baliem Valley Festival (usually in August) is a war dance and ceremony showcase of the Dani, Lani and Yali tribes – Papua's best-known cultural festival. Puncak Jaya (Carstensz Pyramid) is an expedition climb – l'un des Seven Summits. Local salt springs (Air Garam) are important resources for the Dani community. Suspension bridges près de Wamena above the valley are spectaculaire.
Culture et cuisine
Dani tribe culture is Indonesia's most archaic tradition system: the koteka (gourd garment), bakar batu (meat and sweet potato cooked on hot stones ceremony), war dances, and mummies (ancestors preserved in some villages) are unique patrimoine culturel. The noken (woven net bag, UNESCO heritage) is an important handicraft. The staple food is sweet potato (hipere) and sago.
Sécurité publique
Jayawijaya is an extremely reculé and isolated region. The Baliem Valley and Wamena are generally safe, but travel only with a local guide in highland areas. The security situation may change at times – check before travelling. Healthcare is very limited; Wamena hospital is basic, for serious cases Jayapura (approx. 1 hour by flight). Malaria prophylaxis est recommandé.
Informations pratiques
Wamena Airport receives flights depuis Jayapura (approx. 45 minutes). There is no paved road entre Wamena and the outside world. The best time to visit is May to September; the Baliem Festival is in August. Accommodation: simple hotels and guesthouses in Wamena.