Jibama Market in Wamena City, Papua Province
Aside from Nayak Market, Wamena City of Jayawijaya Regency has another interesting market for tourists to explore. The name is Jibama Market, which is located in Hetuma Village. Like other traditional markets, Jibama becomes the place where buyers and sellers conduct transactions. However, the market has become a unique vacation spot for tourists these days. Not only they come to enjoy shopping, but they also conduct other activities like sightseeing and photography. They even have the chance to meet the head of the local tribe, who often shops there. Here is further information regarding the market.
The Nuance
Jibama Market is located in the heart of Wamena City. No wonder, the nuance is crowded and merry. Most visitors are indeed local villagers, but some tourists are also seen sometimes. The exotic atmosphere makes it different than other traditional markets, though. Instead of selling on stands or stalls, the sellers roll out their products on the ground and sell those to buyers right away. These days, some stalls have been built to provide a better accommodation to them, fortunately. What about the products? Vegetables and fruits are common ones. However, the market also provides ornaments, used phones, snacks, etc.
Exploring Jibama Market
The first allure in Jibama Market is none other than the nuance. That means tourists can simply come to the market and enjoy the ambiance. Lots of people interact in a friendly way, including both sellers and buyers. Some of the sellers work on a stall while others sit on the ground in front of their products. Despite the difference, they work sincerely and give the best services to buyers. All of them are indigenous people of Wamena, actually.
The next interesting thing that tourists can get when visiting Jibama Market is related to photography. The nuance itself becomes a great object for it. Not to mention some buyers often come wearing their formal traditional clothes. These people belong to Dani Tribe, after all. Thus, tourists should not miss the chance to take photos of them. One thing, it requires a permission to take photos of those people. It is because not all Wamena People like it.
Another recommended thing to do in Jibama Market is definitely to buy some products and souvenirs. What tourists need to know is that the price is quite pricey. The reason is that sellers bring in the products from outside the region. As for the tip, all buyers should try hard to bargain in order to get cheaper prices. Also, it is better to come in the afternoon. Usually, sellers may give some of their unsold products freely to visitors. Isn’t that great?
Nearby Attractions
- Tirta Wijaya Temple
- Wamena Botanical Garden
- Mummy of Jiwika
How to Get There
For those coming from Jayapura City, they can simply take an airplane at Sentani Airport and head to Wamena Airport. The flight only takes about 30 minutes, so don’t worry. If tourists come from Jakarta City, their destination is 10 hours and 15 minutes. After arriving at the destination, tourists only need to take Irian Street and head to Jibama Market right away. The distance is 5.9 km, so the trip takes only about 15 minutes.
Where to Stay
- Baliem Pilamo Hotel
- Rainbow Hotel
