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Merauke

Indonesia · Coast · IDR · -8.500000, 140.400000
Family friendly 5.7/10 · Rank 1813 of 2 709
Best season: May-October

Best for

Merauke is an ideal place for nature lovers, ornithologists and those who want to see the eastern tip of Indonesia. It is recommended for adventure seekers and travellers looking for authentic experiences. Suitable for couples and solo travellers. Least suitable for those seeking a luxury beach holiday.

Best season

May-October

Daily budget
$66.00 (≈ 5 539 ₽ · ≈ 1 023 000 IDR)
For 7 days
$462.00 (≈ 38 771 ₽ · ≈ 7 161 000 IDR)
Merauke is the easternmost city in Indonesia, located on the southern coast of Papua, near the border with Papua New Guinea. The city is known for its unique nature, including savannahs and mangroves, and is also a gateway to Wasur National Park. Merauke is also famous for its carved wooden statues and the traditional art of Papuan tribes.
Summer
32.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
29.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Merauke residents are friendly Papuans, preserving their traditions. The city is the gateway to southern Papua. People are open and ready to help.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Unique Papua nature
  • Wasur National Park
  • Fewer tourists
  • Affordable prices
  • Authentic atmosphere
  • Beautiful beach sunsets

Cons

  • Remoteness
  • Beaches with murky water
  • Limited nightlife
  • Infrastructure is poorly developed
  • Expensive transfer
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
27.2°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.2°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
32.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
25.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
29.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
28.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
29.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
no distinct rainy season
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sandy with muddy mix
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
grey-brown
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
murky
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Lampu Satu
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
No
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Merauke is a safe city. Beaches have muddy sand and murky water. The main risks are jellyfish.

Sea urchins — details

  • Diadema setosum (long-spined sea urchin) — found in the Arafura Sea, stings are painful but not fatal
  • Echinometra mathaei — inhabits coral reefs, special footwear recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Arafura Sea coral reefs — found in coastal waters, can cause cuts on contact
  • Fire corals (Millepora) — common in shallow waters, cause burning when touched

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast.

Sharks — details

  • Zebra shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) — found in Merauke coastal waters, harmless to humans
  • Grey sharks (Carcharhinus spp.) — several species inhabit the Arafura Sea, usually not dangerous
  • Northern river shark (Glyphis garricki) — rare species, inhabits rivers, potentially dangerous
Attractions

Wasur National Park

A vast national park with savannahs, swamps and mangroves. Home to kangaroos, cassowaries and rare bird species. A paradise for ornithologists.

Lampu Satu Beach (One Lamp Beach)

A picturesque beach with stunning sunsets over the Arafura Sea. Sandy with muddy mix, murky water, but a peaceful atmosphere.

Onggaya Beach

A beach with white sand and large waves. A popular spot for walks and ocean gazing.

Payum Beach

A tranquil beach with a scenic view. An ideal place for relaxing and picnics.

Libra Monument

The city's main symbol — a circular monument. A popular spot for photos.

Merauke Mangrove Forest

Vast mangrove forests with wooden boardwalks. You can see monkeys and birds.

Best areas

Merauke Centre

The heart of the city with markets, shops and restaurants. The best area for tourists.

Samkai Area

A coastal area with Lampu Satu and Payum beaches. For nature lovers.

Must-try food

Grilled fish

Fresh fish grilled with lemon and spices. A Merauke speciality.

Grilled prawns

Prawns grilled with garlic butter. A popular dish.

Nasi Goreng

Fried rice with vegetables, egg and meat. A classic of Indonesian cuisine.

Sate

Meat skewers with peanut sauce. Popular street food.

Kuah Telop

A sour fish soup with vegetables. A local speciality.

Where to go next

Wasur National Park

A park with savannahs and wildlife. 30 km away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Мопа (MKQ).
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Visa
Visa requirements
Visa on Arrival (VOA) 30 days
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-October
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 279 000 IDR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 775 000 IDR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 1 240 000 IDR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 1 550 000 IDR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 1 085 000 IDR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 697 500 IDR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 62 000 IDR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 155 000 IDR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 38 750 IDR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 46 500 IDR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 7 750 IDR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 93 000 IDR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 69 750 IDR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 46 500 IDR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 69 750 IDR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 310 000 IDR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 7 750 IDR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 46 500 IDR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 542 500 IDR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 124 000 IDR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 232 500 IDR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 542 500 IDR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 852 500 IDR
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Merauke Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 465 000 IDR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 155 000 IDR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 124 000 IDR
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Frequently asked questions
Merauke: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Merauke: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +32.0°C, during the day — up to +31.2°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Merauke: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Merauke: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Merauke: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on no distinct rainy season. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Merauke: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sandy with muddy mix" surface, grey-brown sand, murky water. The most popular beaches: Lampu Satu.
Merauke: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Merauke: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Merauke is a safe city. Beaches have muddy sand and murky water. The main risks are jellyfish.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Merauke: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $66.00 (≈ 5 539 ₽ · ≈ 1 023 000 IDR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Merauke: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $18.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $100.00 per night, an apartment — $45.00 per night, a villa — $70.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Merauke: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $4.00, dinner at a restaurant — $10.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $3.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Merauke: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Merauke: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Wasur National Park — A vast national park with savannahs, swamps and mangroves. Home to kangaroos, cassowaries and rare bird species. A paradise for ornithologists.; Lampu Satu Beach (One Lamp Beach) — A picturesque beach with stunning sunsets over the Arafura Sea. Sandy with muddy mix, murky water, but a peaceful atmosphere.; Onggaya Beach — A beach with white sand and large waves. A popular spot for walks and ocean gazing.; Payum Beach — A tranquil beach with a scenic view. An ideal place for relaxing and picnics.; Libra Monument — The city's main symbol — a circular monument. A popular spot for photos.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Merauke: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Grilled fish — Fresh fish grilled with lemon and spices. A Merauke speciality.; Grilled prawns — Prawns grilled with garlic butter. A popular dish.; Nasi Goreng — Fried rice with vegetables, egg and meat. A classic of Indonesian cuisine.; Sate — Meat skewers with peanut sauce. Popular street food.; Kuah Telop — A sour fish soup with vegetables. A local speciality.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Merauke: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Merauke Centre — The heart of the city with markets, shops and restaurants. The best area for tourists.; Samkai Area — A coastal area with Lampu Satu and Payum beaches. For nature lovers.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Merauke: is a visa required?
Visa: Visa on Arrival (VOA) 30 days. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Merauke: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Мопа (code MKQ). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Merauke: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — IDR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $66.00 (≈ 5 539 ₽ · ≈ 1 023 000 IDR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Merauke: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Merauke: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Merauke: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Wasur National Park — A park with savannahs and wildlife. 30 km away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

5.7/10
Overall rank: 1813 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1085

Best season

May-October

Useful information

Currency: IDR
Coordinates: -8.500000, 140.400000