Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park in East Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara

Both local and foreign tourists should be aware of the beauty of East Nusa Tenggara Province. At least, they must know some famous tourist attractions like Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park of East Sumba Regency. This Indonesia’s national park located in Pindu Hurani Village and it belongs to Tabundung Sub-District, actually. Not to mention it resides in one of the major islands called Sumba. One thing that makes the park famous is that it offers various types of flora and fauna for tourists to watch during the visit. Thus, it is suitable for different types of activities including educational tour, family recreation, and photography.

The Nuance
Those who never visit Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park may question regarding the nuance of the site, for sure. Well, in a nutshell, it is similar to other national parks in Indonesia. The site features lush forest with numerous species of flora and fauna living in it. The location is in the south of Sumba Island and it resides on about 800 meters above the sea level. In terms of characteristic, it belongs to the elfin forest (which is both shady and beautiful). Another fact is that the site features a nice pathway for a comfortable exploration!

Exploring Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park
The first attraction that tourists may find in Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park is the flora that grows in it. The most dominant trees are wild pines, actually. Still, tourists may find other majestic plants and trees including sandalwoods, rattans, corpse flowers, palms, and orchids. Not to mention many a special kind of wood like Marra is seen on site, where beautiful cockatoos’ nest reside. All of these plants grow abundantly there and provide a comfy nuance to the site, as well. No wonder, tourists may feel so comfortable when exploring the park.

Aside from flora, Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park is indeed famous for its fauna. The most famous animal that tourists can find on site is called Cacatua suplhurea or Citron-crested cockatoos. What about others? Well, the site also becomes the house of numerous animals including 176 types of birds, hundreds of types of butterflies, tens of reptiles and mammals. In fact, some rare animals are also seen there including Rangkong, Julang, Punai, Sikatan, and much more!

Well, for tourists, they should pay attention to several things before visiting the park. For instance, it is related to the best time to visit, which is between March and June. As an alternative, tourists can come between October and December. Witnessing various flora and fauna is one thing, but visiting nearby natural attractions like Laputi Waterfall becomes a wonderful extra for everyone, without a doubt!

Nearby Attractions

• Pindu Hurani Beach
• Tarimbang Beach

How to Get There
The trip starts from Kupang City, which is the capital of East Nusa Tenggara Province in Indonesia. First, tourists need to head to El Tari International Airport and take an airplane to Umbu Mehang Kunda Airport in Waingapu City. This flight takes approximately 30 minutes. Once arriving at Waingapu, the last thing to do is to take a local transportation service and head to Laiwangi Wanggameti National Park right away. The distance is 119 km, so this trip may take about 3 hours. Make sure to take Adisucipto Street, for a faster trip though.

Where to Stay

• Jimmi Hotel
• Elvin Hotel
• Elim Hotel