Lake Sentani
Danau Sentani
A large highland lake at the foot of the Cyclops Mountains, dotted with more than 20 islets and stilt-house villages. The lake festival in June features dugout canoe war dances.
Lake Sentani lies about 30 km west of Jayapura, with a surface area of about 9,300 hectares. The Cyclops Mountains rise to its north, and more than 20 islands are scattered across the lake. Stilt-house villages of the Sentani people line the shores and islands. From landings such as Khalkote, you can charter a boat to explore the lake and visit bark-painting villages and wood-carving workshops. Around June each year, the Lake Sentani Festival features dugout canoe war dances, traditional costumes, and singing and dancing, making it one of Papua’s best-known cultural festivals. Sentani Airport sits on the north shore of the lake, so it is convenient to reach.
Opening hours
All day; charter boats about 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Asei Island
- MacArthur Monument
- Loka Budaya Museum
- Hamadi Beach & Market
- Youtefa Bridge
- Jayapura City Sign (Polimak Hill)
- Holtekamp Beach
- Base G Beach