Visiting Manusela National Park
Manusela National Park is located on the island of Ceram in the Moluccas archipelago, in eastern Indonesia. The archipelago consists of 632 islands and is home to over two million people. By the 16th century, these islands were already well known, with their spices traded by Arab merchants. At that time, it was the only territory in the world producing nutmeg and cloves. The name Moluccas is thought to come from the Arab expression Jazirat al Muluk, which translates to the island of kings.
A nature reserve in Indonesia
Manusela National Park was established in 1997 to protect the tropical jungle of Ceram, covering a total of 1,890 square kilometers, or roughly 11 percent of the island. The reserve centers around Mount Binaya, the island's primary volcano at 3,027 meters, where trekking is a popular activity. The park also encompasses four traditional fishing villages.
The park is home to 196 bird species, 13 of which are endemic, such as the salmon-crested cockatoo, a bird that has long suffered from poaching. In the local language, Manusela translates to bird of freedom. Beyond the birds, there are 8 types of mammals, with marsupials being the most prominent. You will also find many varieties of butterflies, which can be observed from a lookout point at a location called Pilana. Finally, the island is home to numerous species of reptiles and crocodiles.
Exploring the Indonesian tropical jungle
Beyond the wildlife, the flora in Manusela National Park is exceptionally lush, featuring extensive mangroves and swamp forests. In total, there are 187 documented species of flora, including 97 types of orchids and giant ferns that reach heights of over four meters.
The reserve also protects the deepest cave in all of Indonesia, Hatusaka Cave.
I am not sure if the forest in this national park is primary, meaning untouched by human activity and transformation, but in any case, it seemed very well preserved to me.
There are many varied plant and animal species, and plenty of birds with beautiful colors. The mountains and the proximity to the seaside really add to the charm of this place.