Home of the Dani people, the Baliem Valley is the prime destination in Papua. The valley was unknown to the outside world until 1938, when an American expedition flew over it and discovered a thriving agricultural civilization in the highlands. Today it remains one of the most extraordinary places you can visit in Indonesia.
The best way to get here is to fly from Jayapura or Biak to Wamena, the valley's only town. Book early and reconfirm, because flights fill up fast and cancellations are common.
Wamena is a spread-out town with basic facilities. You will still see men and women in traditional dress -- koteka (penis gourds) and grass skirts respectively. Everything is expensive here because supplies are flown in from Jayapura.
From Wamena, you can explore the valley on foot with a local guide. Wesaput is close enough to walk to from town. Pugima is about an hour's walk beyond Wesaput. Sinatma has good trekking trails along the Sungai Wamena and a swinging rope bridge.
For the eastern valley, take a bemo to Jiwika, which makes a good base. Nearby are the caves at Gua Kontilola and Gua Wikuda, where you can see Dani mummies.