Landing at Sentani Airport in West Papua, most people assume they’ve arrived in Jayapura. In reality, they’re in Sentani, a smaller and more scenic town that sits on the edge of Lake Sentani and serves as the real gateway to the region. This is where you’ll find a place called Teletubbies Hill, one of the more unusual names you’ll hear during your time in Papua, but also one of the most rewarding spots to visit.
Teletubbies Hill isn’t the name locals originally used. Officially known as Bukit Yarmok, it overlooks the lake, the surrounding Cyclops Mountains, and the scattered islands that rise from the water like green humps. It’s an almost otherworldly view, especially in the morning or just before sunset. Despite the name, there’s nothing childish or artificial about this place. It’s real, raw, and full of natural beauty.
Why is it called Teletubbies Hill?
The name came from a Papuan influencer who posted drone footage several years ago. The rolling, grassy terrain reminded people of the bizarre children’s show. The nickname stuck, and once tourists started picking it up, local authorities leaned into it. Now there’s a big sign at the top of the hill saying Teletubbies Hill.
You’ll pay about 100,000 rupiah to park, but climbing the hill itself is still free and something you will do on one of our tours!
Is it worth the climb?
Yes. If you’re looking for a glimpse into the natural beauty of Papua, this is the place to be. You’ll walk up around 300 concrete steps to reach the main viewpoint. It’s not an easy climb, especially in the afternoon sun, but it’s manageable for most people. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view over Lake Sentani, the villages around it, and distant mountain ridges fading into the haze.
This isn’t a spot built for foreign tourists. It’s where locals go to hang out, take photos, or just escape the noise of the town below. On weekends and holidays, it gets busy with groups of teenagers, families, and couples. There are usually a few street food vendors near the base, along with women selling fresh fruit juices. For less than the price of a bottled water, you can get a cup of cold soursop or orange juice blended on the spot, which after the hike, feels more than deserved.
Getting there
From central Jayapura, it takes about 45 minutes by car or motorbike to reach Sentani. From Sentani Airport, it’s much closer — just a short 10 to 15 minute drive. Ask for Bukit Teletubbies or Bukit Yarmok and any driver will know where to take you. The road is in good shape but winds upward, so it’s not recommended to attempt it on foot from the town itself.
There are no official hours, no ticket offices, and no English-speaking guides. This is West Papua, not Bali. You just turn up, pay for parking, and climb. And in many ways, that’s the appeal.
Final thoughts
The name might be ridiculous, but Teletubbies Hill is one of the most striking places in Papua. It offers a clear, unobstructed look at just how beautiful and untouched this region still is. It’s not commercial, and it’s not polished. It’s a patch of land with a view, a few steps, some juice stalls, and a lot of locals enjoying the same thing you are.
West Papua is one of the least understood parts of Indonesia, and also one of the most special. Spots like this remind you that beauty doesn’t need branding. And if the region ever gets the stability this will be there waiting!
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