Lorentz National Park, Protected natural reserve in Papua, Indonesia.
Lorentz National Park is a vast protected area in Papua that stretches from New Guinea's mountainous interior to the Arafura Sea. It contains five distinct ecological zones, ranging from alpine peaks to lowland forests, wetlands, and coastal areas.
Protection of the area began in 1919 under Dutch colonial administration and developed into a formal nature reserve by 1978. The site gained official national park status in 1997 and was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its ecological importance.
Eight indigenous ethnic groups, including the Nduga, Amungme, and Komoro, inhabit the park and have maintained deep connections to these lands for generations. Their presence and traditional practices continue to shape how the region is experienced today.
Access to the park requires permits and experienced guides, particularly for remote regions. The terrain is challenging, and thorough preparation is necessary before planning any visits or activities.
The park contains Puncak Jaya, one of the highest peaks in the southern hemisphere with equatorial glaciers still visible today. This combination of extreme altitude near the equator makes the ice there an unusual natural occurrence.
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