Jayapura, capital of Indonesia’s Papua province, might be your entry point into this wild and underexplored corner of the country, but it’s Sentani where the magic really begins. Nestled along the shores of the breathtaking Lake Sentani lies Asei Island, a place where time slows to a crawl and nature does the talking.
While Asei Island may not boast a five-page brochure of activities, it’s the very definition of off-the-beaten-track travel. And for those joining us on our West Papua tour, it’s a must-see.
What Is Sentani All About?
Sentani is often mistaken as part of Jayapura proper, but it’s very much its own place, both geographically and culturally. Located about 40 minutes from Jayapura city, it’s best known as the home of Lake Sentani, the largest lake in Papua. Surrounded by forested hills and dotted with islands, the lake is the lifeblood of the region. Traditional fishing is still the norm, and small wooden houses on stilts hover just above the water.
Visitors can explore scenic spots like Teletubbies Hill, named for its rolling, grassy slopes that look like something from a fantasy world. From there, you’ll get panoramic views of the lake and its many islands, including Asei. Street food, local handicrafts, and warm hospitality complete the picture. This is real Papua.
How to Reach Asei Island
To visit Asei Island independently, you’ll need to head to the local jetty at Dermaga Khalkote in the village of Asei Besar, just 20 minutes from Sentani airport. It’s a scenic drive past hills and banana plantations.
Once at the dock, you can hire a boat from one of the many local operators. Prices vary, but expect to pay between 100,000 and 200,000 IDR for a return trip depending on your negotiation skills and the number of people in your group. The boat ride itself is short, around 10 minutes, but it’s a peaceful cruise through calm waters with postcard views in every direction.
If you’re joining us on our West Papua tour, all of this will be arranged ahead of time. We use reliable local boatmen and make sure there’s always time to stop for a quick bowl of bakso or a cold coconut before you set off.
What to Do on Asei Island
The short answer is: not much. But that’s precisely the appeal.
The biggest draw here is the tranquillity. Take a short stroll to the church at the top of the hill for a sweeping view of the entire lake basin. It’s a leisurely walk rather than a true hike, but the view is worth every step.
Wander among the stilt houses and meet the local families. You’ll find that people here are friendly and often happy to show you around. Asei is also famous for its bark paintings, a traditional art form practiced by the island’s indigenous artists. The paintings are often for sale, and buying one not only supports the community but gives you a genuine piece of local culture to take home.
There are no formal restaurants or resorts, but that’s not a problem. Locals often sell fresh coconuts, homemade snacks, and even coffee to visitors. It’s the kind of place where you sit on a wooden bench, drink in the view, and let the rest of the world disappear for a while.
Can You Stay on Asei Island?
There are no hotels or guesthouses on the island itself, but for those seeking an ultra-rural homestay experience, it may be possible to arrange something informally through local contacts. If this is of interest to you, let us know when booking your West Papua tour and we’ll do our best to make it happen.
For most, staying in Sentani is the more practical option, with simple guesthouses and hotels available, including several located right on the lakefront.
Why We Visit Asei Island
At Young Pioneer Tours, we specialise in getting beyond the obvious. Asei Island isn’t a checklist destination, but that’s exactly why it fits our philosophy. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and it offers genuine interaction with the people who live there.
For those on our West Papua tour, it’s a chance to experience Papua at its most raw and real. One of our favourite moments is watching the sun set over Lake Sentani as boats glide past in the distance and the sounds of daily life drift across the water.
We’ll make sure you don’t miss the meatball guy at the dock either.
Want to join our next West Papua adventure? Check out our latest departures here or contact us to arrange a bespoke private itinerary.
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