Located north of Batanta Island, Pulau Mansuar is a small but high ridge of jungled limestone. With just 28km of coastline, this island is the perfect destination for a day trip of hiking and snorkeling while chartering in Raja Ampat.
Famed for its vibrant coral reefs that frame the island, Mansuar is the perfect place to explore Raja Ampat’s rich marine life. We recommend heading to the Yentuba jetty with your motor yacht’s snorkeling gear as its coral reefs are usually swarming with fish. Other worthy diving spots are Ransiwor and Sidon Mankur.
Typical of the island’s tropical nature, there are also a number of white sandy beaches where you can dry off under the Indonesian sun.
After a morning of swimming with the fish, pull on some hiking boots to explore Mansuar’s jungle wildlife. There is a well-defined path that runs between Yenbuba and Yenbekwan which is just 3km, so still allows you and your charter guests to relax and soak up the jungle sights on a walk that is not too arduous.
From Yenbekwan, there is another 4km route westward that leads you to the island’s jungle lake. Be sure to pack your swimsuit as the lake’s clear blue waters are the perfect way to cool off after navigating Mansuar’s thick vegetation. If you are looking for an easier route to the lake, then you can start at the south coast village of Sauwandarek as it is less than 1km away.
During your hikes you will pass through the tiny villages where the island’s locals live. The Sauwandarek and Yenbuba villages are inhabited by just over 100 people who live in traditional island houses built with leaf roofs. Be sure to stop off at these villages to buy local crafts and experience the authenticity of island life.
For those looking to truly immerse themselves in Raja Ampat’s culture during their luxury charter, then many of these locals do offer homestays as part of the archipelago’s eco-tourism initiative. During your stay, your hosts will prepare you traditional dishes and will use their invaluable insights to guide you to the most beautiful spots on the island for diving, hiking, or simply just photos.
If you would like to incorporate a visit to Mansuar into your Indonesia charter itinerary, be sure to speak to your preferred charter broker.
