Mapia Islands

The Mapia Islands are an atoll of five coral islands in the Pacific Ocean, with two larger islands named Bras and Pegun and three smaller landmasses. The atoll lies roughly 190 kilometers north of Manokwari and consists of low, sandy formations typical of coral islands.

The atoll was once under Spanish control and was formerly known as Guedes before receiving its current name. Early European contact shaped the history of the islands, though local people had inhabited the area for centuries.

The local population named these islands Piken, meaning sand island, reflecting the landscape that visitors encounter today. This simple name captures the sandy shores and low terrain that define the appearance of this atoll.

Visiting this atoll requires careful planning because it is accessible only by boat and connections are limited. Travelers should allow extra time and prepare for basic conditions, as only around 200 people live on the islands.

The language spoken on this atoll became extinct by the end of the 20th century, with only one elderly speaker remaining around 2000. This linguistic heritage is now lost forever, a quiet reminder of the remote history of these islands.