Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park

Manupeu Tanah Daru Overview

Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park, locally known as Taman Nasional Manupeu Tanah Daru, is a magnificent protected area located on Sumba Island in Indonesia. Encompassing approximately 223 square miles (576 square kilometers), this park is a cornerstone of conservation efforts in the region, known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique ecosystems, and rich cultural significance.

Nestled in East Nusa Tenggara province, the park is a blend of rugged cliffs, rolling hills, lush valleys, and striking waterfalls that descend into pristine pools, creating a scene of unmatched natural beauty.

The terrain of Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park is dominated by steep limestone cliffs and expansive savanna interspersed with tropical and semi-evergreen forests. The lush vegetation thrives in areas where moisture is abundant, creating an oasis-like contrast to the dry savanna that blankets much of Sumba Island. Notable features include cascading waterfalls like Matayangu, which is both a natural and spiritual landmark.

This stunning waterfall is surrounded by dense forest, showcasing the biodiversity and serenity of the park. The interplay of dry and wet habitats provides a home to a variety of flora, including distinctive orchids and towering lontar palms.

Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park is a sanctuary for some of the most remarkable wildlife in Indonesia. It is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands Endemic Bird Area and is renowned for its avian diversity, housing several species found nowhere else on Earth. Bird enthusiasts flock to the park to spot the critically endangered Sumba hornbill (Rhyticeros everetti), Sumba buttonquail (Turnix everetti), and Sumba green pigeon (Treron teysmannii).

In addition to its birdlife, the park also shelters mammals such as the rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) and various bats that play a critical role in pollination and seed dispersal. The mix of endemic and migratory species makes it a biodiversity hotspot.

Visitors to Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park can engage in various activities to experience its natural wonders. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering opportunities to explore the dense forest, savanna, and limestone hills. Guided birdwatching tours are particularly popular, allowing visitors to observe rare species in their natural habitats.

The waterfalls, particularly Matayangu, serve as scenic spots for relaxation and photography. Additionally, the park provides a glimpse into the cultural traditions of the local Sumba people, who regard the land as sacred and maintain practices closely tied to nature.

Conservation challenges for the park include deforestation driven by agricultural expansion, illegal logging, and poaching. However, efforts to preserve this natural treasure have seen some success, such as reforestation projects and community engagement initiatives that integrate local traditions into conservation strategies. Partnerships between government agencies and NGOs have strengthened protection measures, ensuring that the park remains a haven for its unique biodiversity.