Features
- English speaking
- Reef dropoff
- Seagrass
- Hiking available
- Good phone signal
- Coral
- Birds of Paradise
- Has family bungalows
- Calm beach
- Sandy Beach
- Has raised beds
- Western style toilet
- IDR 500,000 to 600,000
- Near village
- IDR 400,000 to 500,000
- Diving available
Details
October 2024: Due to a medical condition in the family, Yenkangkanes need to reduce their workload, and will not be accepting bookings until further notice. All existing bookings are still valid and will be accommodated.
Yenkangkanes Homestay offers two over-water private bungalows and two over-water family bungalows.
The family bungalows have two rooms, which can be separately booked. If you want an entire family bungalow, request two rooms. (2 x Over water – Room in a bungalow)
A premium is charged for the private bungalows.
All rooms sleep two on a real beds. Sheets, pillows, bolsters and mosquito nets are supplied. Each bungalow has a shared verandah with chairs and tables from which to take in sunsets and the ocean views to Gam and Friwen islands.
Yenkangkanes Homestay’s dining room was still under construction in December 2023. Until it is completed, meals will be served on bungalow verandahs. Free drinking water, tea and coffee are provided at all bungalows.
Guests share a single bathroom shelter with a combined dip mandi and western style toilet.
There’s good phone reception at Yenkangkanes Homestay – a 4G data connection is usually available. A generator provides electricity from sunset until around 1.00am and a backup solar system provides lighting after that.
Basic supplies are available in the nearby village of Saporkren, which is a short boat ride or 30 minute walk away. Alternatively, Waisai can be reached by car in about 20 minutes. Please do your best to avoid contributing to Raja Ampat’s growing rubbish problem by taking all your inorganic trash away with you when you leave.
There is almost always an English speaking staff member around at Yengkangkanes Homestay.
Transport / Getting there
A sealed road connects Yenkangkanes to Waisai and ferry harbour transfers cost IDR 300,000 each way. Vehicles used can easily accommodate 4 guests and baggage.
Read more about Raja Ampat boat transport prices here.
Activities
Most guests at Yenkangkanes have come to observe Waigeo’s famed Wilson’s Bird of Paradise, but there’s good snorkeling available, and the walk to Saporkren village along the beach at low tide reveals three strongly flowing springs of beautifully cool fresh water.
Birds of Paradise
Both Wilson’s and the Red Bird of Paradise can be seen near Yenkangkanes. Tours leave before dawn at around 4.00am. Tours cost IDR 300,000 per person, per site. (IDR 600,000 per person if you want to see both Wilson's and Red Birds of Paradise.)
Diving
Diving is available by arrangement with nearby service providers. See this page for essential Raja Ampat diving safety information.
Snorkeling
Yenkangkanes offers good snorkeling (bring your own gear) over seagrass rich with fish and the reef that clothes the drop off beyond the seagrass beds. Dolphins frequently cruise the drop off in front of the homestay. The nearby village of Saporkren also has great snorkelling, especially over the colourful corals around the jetty that extends into Kabui Bay on the western side of the village. There's good snorkelling beneath Saporkren's main jetty too.
Your hosts can provide snorkelling trips to any destination you want.
Village visits
Saporkren village is well worth a visit, especially by walking along the beach at low tide. In addition to the previously mentioned springs, there are some great sandy coves and a raised boardwalk around a bluff on the outskirts of the village. The village itself is very picturesque and its inhabitants friendly and welcoming. If the tide is high, Saporkren can also be reached by walking along the road from Yenkangkanes and taking a jungle path from where the road ends. The road is quiet except on holidays when people from Waisai visit the beaches for picnics.
Pulau Waigeo
See our Waigeo Island page for an overview of the island and its attractions.
Yenkangkanes Homestay Reviews
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142 Reviews
We spent three nights at Yenkangkanes homestay and they were really nice. Communication with the hosts was scarce, as they don’t speak good English, however, with your google translator and good attitude you will be fine. The rooms are quite nice, have a water boiler and coffee, not quite common in other homestays. The food, was delicious, the best we had acroos all homestays. The house reef is quite beatiful, and also you can walk to the nearby town of Saporkren, and easily do a walk from there to see the Birds of Paradise and lots of other birds with local guides living neraby (Franky Mambrasar). Waigeo vegetation is just amazing, super lush, comparing to the nearby islands, so if you like the jungle, this is a really good option. We recommend it!!
We spent three nights at Yenkangkanes homestay and they were really nice. Communication with the hosts was scarce, as they don’t speak good English, however, with your google translator and good attitude you will be fine. The rooms are quite nice, have a water boiler and coffee, not quite common in other homestays. The food, was delicious, the best we had acroos all homestays. The house reef is quite beatiful, and also you can walk to the nearby town of Saporkren, and easily do a walk from there to see the Birds of Paradise and lots of other birds with local guides living neraby (Franky Mambrasar). Waigeo vegetation is just amazing, super lush, comparing to the nearby islands, so if you like the jungle, this is a really good option. We recommend it!!
Three of us stayed here for three nights. We snorkeled in both directions and found going to the right was the best. Snorkel out to the wall and down to the village. Walk through the village it’s delightful. We left our doors open, the food was delicious, you can bird off your porch on both sides and Benny is a lovely guide that successfully helped us see the Wilson’s BOP in the pouring rain. The accommodation is rustic but clean. We hired a boat Benny arranged and went to three different sites to snorkel, one place I saw the Red BOP from the water. Benny had Helmeted Friarbirds nesting in his yard and you can be sure to see a variety there.
If you snorkel to the left you need to pass two piers before it gets good. Enjoy we did.
Three of us stayed here for three nights. We snorkeled in both directions and found going to the right was the best. Snorkel out to the wall and down to the village. Walk through the village it’s delightful. We left our doors open, the food was delicious, you can bird off your porch on both sides and Benny is a lovely guide that successfully helped us see the Wilson’s BOP in the pouring rain. The accommodation is rustic but clean. We hired a boat Benny arranged and went to three different sites to snorkel, one place I saw the Red BOP from the water. Benny had Helmeted Friarbirds nesting in his yard and you can be sure to see a variety there.
If you snorkel to the left you need to pass two piers before it gets good. Enjoy we did.
I spent 4 nights there after 2 weeks of good/hard birding in Papua Barat (despite the heavy rain soon in the season this year).
The homestay is super safe, clean, welcoming and the family very attentive to your needs. But it is sometimes difficult to be understood. The daughter speaks some English and is really nice.
The food is the best I had in Indonesia !
Everything costs additionally to the room rates, you need a boat for snorkeling, the guides struggles with birds other than the BOPs. Otherwise you are in paradise 🙂
I spent 4 nights there after 2 weeks of good/hard birding in Papua Barat (despite the heavy rain soon in the season this year).
The homestay is super safe, clean, welcoming and the family very attentive to your needs. But it is sometimes difficult to be understood. The daughter speaks some English and is really nice.
The food is the best I had in Indonesia !
Everything costs additionally to the room rates, you need a boat for snorkeling, the guides struggles with birds other than the BOPs. Otherwise you are in paradise 🙂
Great place, after three weeks hard-core birding on West Papua we wanted to relax for a couple of day…. but no… still birding here off course to see the two BOPS, Crowned Pigeon and other goodies! Snorkling was nice in the front of the homestay. First day we had fun in the water with the kids who were playing with a huge tree log.
Food was good, but after three weeks rice three times a day before during our trip, it’s too much……. they do offer vegetarian food tho!
Homestay above the water sounds idyllic but the first night we had a huge thunderstorm and I thought the whole thing would crash but nevertheless it didn’t.
Since Benny was busy on a bird trip we were guided by Yopi. He knows the area but he is not the best bird guide for small birds high up in the canopy. We met Benny in the Arfaks tho and is a very nice guy and speaks English rather well.
Google translate is your best friend in Papua and Indonesia.
Regards and thank you for all, Leo, Daniel, Hugo and Joren from Holland
Great place, after three weeks hard-core birding on West Papua we wanted to relax for a couple of day…. but no… still birding here off course to see the two BOPS, Crowned Pigeon and other goodies! Snorkling was nice in the front of the homestay. First day we had fun in the water with the kids who were playing with a huge tree log.
Food was good, but after three weeks rice three times a day before during our trip, it’s too much……. they do offer vegetarian food tho!
Homestay above the water sounds idyllic but the first night we had a huge thunderstorm and I thought the whole thing would crash but nevertheless it didn’t.
Since Benny was busy on a bird trip we were guided by Yopi. He knows the area but he is not the best bird guide for small birds high up in the canopy. We met Benny in the Arfaks tho and is a very nice guy and speaks English rather well.
Google translate is your best friend in Papua and Indonesia.
Regards and thank you for all, Leo, Daniel, Hugo and Joren from Holland
We stayed two nights at Yenkengkanes as our base to see Wilsons and Red BoP (saw both!). Lovely peaceful and relaxing place. Good snorkelling on the house reef, plus saw interesting marine life from the bungalow veranda (octopus, eel, dolphins). The walk into Saporkren is a nice evening stroll. Our lack of Bahasa Indonesia made organising boat transfer to next homestay a bit difficult, but we got there in the end thanks to Margaretta’s patience. Thanks to Margaretta and family for your hospitality.
We stayed two nights at Yenkengkanes as our base to see Wilsons and Red BoP (saw both!). Lovely peaceful and relaxing place. Good snorkelling on the house reef, plus saw interesting marine life from the bungalow veranda (octopus, eel, dolphins). The walk into Saporkren is a nice evening stroll. Our lack of Bahasa Indonesia made organising boat transfer to next homestay a bit difficult, but we got there in the end thanks to Margaretta’s patience. Thanks to Margaretta and family for your hospitality.
Sweet family offering an amazing service in an amazing spot. Room is super comfortable, neat, nice. Views are breathtaking and toilets and shower are top. We stayed during our last two nights here and we did enjoy it very much. We will come back for sure if again in Raja and recommend it 200%
Sweet family offering an amazing service in an amazing spot. Room is super comfortable, neat, nice. Views are breathtaking and toilets and shower are top. We stayed during our last two nights here and we did enjoy it very much. We will come back for sure if again in Raja and recommend it 200%
Me and my friend stayed at the homestay for 3 nights. We felt very welcome from the start. We both got our own bungalow which we didnt expect. We thought we would share a twin bungalow but as they only have 2 private bungalows with double beds, we each got our own. The bungalows are fine, basic but clean. The shower are also used by the owners and about a 100 meter walk over the jetty and they are ok but not very clean. One shower has good pressure, the second one is just a dribble.
The food was great. Even though mainly rice, there was always choice fish and or chicken and or tofu/tempeh and vegetables. There was always fruit as well. My friend is coeliac/gluten free and that was dealt with very well as well which is not always easy if you do not speak their language.
Bram one of the sons of the owner arranged our birding tour in the morning. We asked for an english speaking guide and he said yes, unfortunately our guide spoke no english at all. We managed to see both the red bird of paradise and the Wilson’s bird of paradise. Because we went to both spots we had to pay double the amount (600k each) instead of the 300k each. The time it took was the same tho so thats not entirely correct, but we were happy we saw both birds (although the red bird is pretty far up in the trees and hardly ever comes down)
Transport to and from the ferry was organised well. 330k for one way for the both of us.
After all the stories we heard about the homestays in the area we were a bit reluctant to book, however apart from the cleanliness of the bathroom, we were pleasantly surprised and we would definitely recommend to stay here.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars (mentioning this as i am not able to click on the stars at the bottom of this review page)
Me and my friend stayed at the homestay for 3 nights. We felt very welcome from the start. We both got our own bungalow which we didnt expect. We thought we would share a twin bungalow but as they only have 2 private bungalows with double beds, we each got our own. The bungalows are fine, basic but clean. The shower are also used by the owners and about a 100 meter walk over the jetty and they are ok but not very clean. One shower has good pressure, the second one is just a dribble.
The food was great. Even though mainly rice, there was always choice fish and or chicken and or tofu/tempeh and vegetables. There was always fruit as well. My friend is coeliac/gluten free and that was dealt with very well as well which is not always easy if you do not speak their language.
Bram one of the sons of the owner arranged our birding tour in the morning. We asked for an english speaking guide and he said yes, unfortunately our guide spoke no english at all. We managed to see both the red bird of paradise and the Wilson’s bird of paradise. Because we went to both spots we had to pay double the amount (600k each) instead of the 300k each. The time it took was the same tho so thats not entirely correct, but we were happy we saw both birds (although the red bird is pretty far up in the trees and hardly ever comes down)
Transport to and from the ferry was organised well. 330k for one way for the both of us.
After all the stories we heard about the homestays in the area we were a bit reluctant to book, however apart from the cleanliness of the bathroom, we were pleasantly surprised and we would definitely recommend to stay here.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars (mentioning this as i am not able to click on the stars at the bottom of this review page)
Two Americans stayed in a bungalow over the water for 2 nights. Great taxi ride up from the harbour, loved staying here, good food, always white rice and veggies plus protein of choice, we are vegan so we always got tofu or tempeh. Saw the red birds of paradise with Benny, 45 min walk at 5am for 300, worth it! Use your google translator and learn some Indonesian!
Two Americans stayed in a bungalow over the water for 2 nights. Great taxi ride up from the harbour, loved staying here, good food, always white rice and veggies plus protein of choice, we are vegan so we always got tofu or tempeh. Saw the red birds of paradise with Benny, 45 min walk at 5am for 300, worth it! Use your google translator and learn some Indonesian!
We stayed here for 6 nights and very much enjoyed our time. It’s a beautiful location and the overwater rooms are great for watching birds at the edge of the forest. Thanks to Benny for organising the trips to the Bird of Paradise leks and to all the wonderful people who looked after us.
We stayed here for 6 nights and very much enjoyed our time. It’s a beautiful location and the overwater rooms are great for watching birds at the edge of the forest. Thanks to Benny for organising the trips to the Bird of Paradise leks and to all the wonderful people who looked after us.
Stayed for 5 nights at the beginning of my trip. Good food, Dani showed us the Cuscus every night. I went to see the Birds of Paradise one morning, only saw one type. That’s nature I guess.
I was able to organize diving via a contact of Dani.
Stayed for 5 nights at the beginning of my trip. Good food, Dani showed us the Cuscus every night. I went to see the Birds of Paradise one morning, only saw one type. That’s nature I guess.
I was able to organize diving via a contact of Dani.
We stay at yenkangkanes for a couple of days. Bungalows are nice and clean, food good and the reef on front is quite nice and in a good shape.
IMPORTANT NOTE: if the reason to choose this homestay is for Benny (experienced bird guide), as we did, you must know he is not guideing right now, and the person who is takeing the moring trips to see the paradise birds is NOT PROFESSIONAL AT ALL. He even did’nt show up one day at 5:00 a.m. Really disappointed.
We are gratefuled with the owner of the homestay who tried to “save the situation” as better he can.
We stay at yenkangkanes for a couple of days. Bungalows are nice and clean, food good and the reef on front is quite nice and in a good shape.
IMPORTANT NOTE: if the reason to choose this homestay is for Benny (experienced bird guide), as we did, you must know he is not guideing right now, and the person who is takeing the moring trips to see the paradise birds is NOT PROFESSIONAL AT ALL. He even did’nt show up one day at 5:00 a.m. Really disappointed.
We are gratefuled with the owner of the homestay who tried to “save the situation” as better he can.
We stayed here for two nights when first arrived in raja and it was beautiful! The over water bungalows are lovely and super comfortable and the homestay is very clean. Big school of fish hanging out below them all day as well! The house reef is great to snorkel and can walk easily to end of nearby village and snorkel the beautiful reef beyond there too. Dani and his family were great hosts and the food was always delicious and more than enough to eat every time! Would definitely stay again:)
We stayed here for two nights when first arrived in raja and it was beautiful! The over water bungalows are lovely and super comfortable and the homestay is very clean. Big school of fish hanging out below them all day as well! The house reef is great to snorkel and can walk easily to end of nearby village and snorkel the beautiful reef beyond there too. Dani and his family were great hosts and the food was always delicious and more than enough to eat every time! Would definitely stay again:)
We had the best time at Yenkangkenes, Dany is a fantastic host so helpful to. He helped us arrange an awesome dive, taxis, and even got us onto some awesome birds and mammals around the homestay (waigeo cuscus, northern common cuscus, fruit-doves, frogmouths, manucodes, kingfishers). We also had great views of Wilsons and Red BOP on the island, and Dany can arrange that too. The accommodation was clean and comfortable and the food was delicious. We even got to watch a mother and calf dugong swim just 20 odd metres from the dinner table! Was sad to leave but will definitely return.
We had the best time at Yenkangkenes, Dany is a fantastic host so helpful to. He helped us arrange an awesome dive, taxis, and even got us onto some awesome birds and mammals around the homestay (waigeo cuscus, northern common cuscus, fruit-doves, frogmouths, manucodes, kingfishers). We also had great views of Wilsons and Red BOP on the island, and Dany can arrange that too. The accommodation was clean and comfortable and the food was delicious. We even got to watch a mother and calf dugong swim just 20 odd metres from the dinner table! Was sad to leave but will definitely return.
We stayed 1 Night. On next morning we went for Birding (Wilson’s & Red BOP), it was nice, but be aware that it is a fairly long exhausting walk into the woods uphill to see them. We walked 3-4 hours.
Internet connection is there. The host family is very kind.
One negative point (therefore 4 stars) was that they simply forgot about our transfer to the next homestay on Fam Islands on the later morning (they agreed upon), so we had to organize ourselves. Because of the fact that transfers are one of the most important things for guests in Raja Ampat, we did not like this point at all.
We stayed 1 Night. On next morning we went for Birding (Wilson’s & Red BOP), it was nice, but be aware that it is a fairly long exhausting walk into the woods uphill to see them. We walked 3-4 hours.
Internet connection is there. The host family is very kind.
One negative point (therefore 4 stars) was that they simply forgot about our transfer to the next homestay on Fam Islands on the later morning (they agreed upon), so we had to organize ourselves. Because of the fact that transfers are one of the most important things for guests in Raja Ampat, we did not like this point at all.
This is a great homestay to kick off your stay in Raja Ampat since it can be accessed by road from the ferry terminal in Waisai. I stayed here with a group of 8 people for 1 night and it was perfect.
Positives:
-Great food
-House reef is amazing
-Over the water bungalows
-Spacious rooms/verandahs
Negatives:
-This homestay struggled during covid so it is a bit worn
This is a great homestay to kick off your stay in Raja Ampat since it can be accessed by road from the ferry terminal in Waisai. I stayed here with a group of 8 people for 1 night and it was perfect.
Positives:
-Great food
-House reef is amazing
-Over the water bungalows
-Spacious rooms/verandahs
Negatives:
-This homestay struggled during covid so it is a bit worn
Stayed four nights with Danni. We had a great time. His place is located in a nice area. You can snorkel in front of the homestay for hours (between his place and the saporkren jetty is the best part, no current). You can walk via a easily marked off to Saporkren, which is a cute town with happy residents. Also one of the BOP display trees is right by his place up the hill.
Electricity was on 24/7, the food was fantastic, beds are decent, everyone friendly, and not many mosquitoes. No wifi or beer, but the dive resort next door has both. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed four nights with Danni. We had a great time. His place is located in a nice area. You can snorkel in front of the homestay for hours (between his place and the saporkren jetty is the best part, no current). You can walk via a easily marked off to Saporkren, which is a cute town with happy residents. Also one of the BOP display trees is right by his place up the hill.
Electricity was on 24/7, the food was fantastic, beds are decent, everyone friendly, and not many mosquitoes. No wifi or beer, but the dive resort next door has both. Would definitely stay again.
This is a good homestay. The bungalow is spacious and has a real bed. The veranda is shared and has wonderful sunset views. We saw dolphins swim by every day we were there. The family is nice and helpful. They arranged a birding trek and a trip to waisai for a rapid test at the hospital. The food was pretty good but not much variety. The snorkelling in front of the bungalow is decent. There is a nice walk through the jungle and along boardwalks to Saporkren village. This is a good base for birding and trips to Waisai and the harbor.
This is a good homestay. The bungalow is spacious and has a real bed. The veranda is shared and has wonderful sunset views. We saw dolphins swim by every day we were there. The family is nice and helpful. They arranged a birding trek and a trip to waisai for a rapid test at the hospital. The food was pretty good but not much variety. The snorkelling in front of the bungalow is decent. There is a nice walk through the jungle and along boardwalks to Saporkren village. This is a good base for birding and trips to Waisai and the harbor.
I stayed here in February 2020.
When I arrived they seemed to be quite surprised as there had been no confirmation that I was arriving, despite having paid using the stay raja ampat website.
However, this was soon resolved and I was given a choice of rooms as no other guests.
The best rooms look directly over the sea with waisai to the left and kri, friwen and gam to the right. A real 180 degree vista of lush islands and blue sea.
The water under the rooms is tidal and sometimes looks a little green close to the shore BUT you only need to swim 10 to 20 metres and you are soon on a pristine reef with lots of fish.
One morning after breakfast I was quietly reading and was suddenly distracted by the unmistakable sound of dolphins exhaling…and there they were just 20 metres or so away ! What a start to the day….except I had already been up at 04:00 and been out with the very knowledgeable Bennie Mambrasar on a bird watching tour. I spent maybe 3 hours or more watching the incredible Wilson’s bird of paradise…awesome and beyond expectations.
After breakfast Ebu made us a picnic lunch and I set off with papa and Bennie in his boat. Snorkelling at the beautiful Friwen island and then a trip to a gorgeous uninhabited island in Kabul bay. On the way we saw whales.
Bennie pointed out many wonderful birds and wild orchids during our trip.
Returned to find ebu made some amazing snacks with a cup of tea to refresh after a slightly bumpy boat trip.
Then, as if my day could not get any better, papa spotted a cuscus in a very tall tree in the home stays garden. As they are nocturnal it was not really moving about much. So after dinner we spent a very happy 30 minutes or so following it around in the jungle. Accompanied by huge fruit bats and the inevitable friendly dog or 2
These people are just so lovely, friendly and helpful. Nothing is a problem for them.
English is a bit of a problem for them, not Bennie the guide, but nevertheless everything worked fine.
As with most homestays the food is quite basic but is enough and very tasty too. The toilets could be a bit cleaner but were far from the worst I have seen.
Electricity comes on in the evening until maybe 2 am.
Sapokoren village is an easy 20 minute walk away and very basic supplies are available here, many dogs in village who like to bark…a lot !
Waisai is about 20 to 30 minutes by car and quite a good road.
There is a dive resort quite close by that will take non guests diving and collect from the home stay, I did not go diving in the end as wanted to go see the birds of paradise.
There is no alcohol available at home stay But if you ask they may go and buy some for you.
Overall I really enjoyed my stay here and have no hesitation in recommending this place. Just, as with everywhere in raja ampat, don’t expect high service standards. It’s not a Hilton hotel !
Learn some bahasa, smile, be friendly and you will build memories that last a lifetime.
I stayed here in February 2020.
When I arrived they seemed to be quite surprised as there had been no confirmation that I was arriving, despite having paid using the stay raja ampat website.
However, this was soon resolved and I was given a choice of rooms as no other guests.
The best rooms look directly over the sea with waisai to the left and kri, friwen and gam to the right. A real 180 degree vista of lush islands and blue sea.
The water under the rooms is tidal and sometimes looks a little green close to the shore BUT you only need to swim 10 to 20 metres and you are soon on a pristine reef with lots of fish.
One morning after breakfast I was quietly reading and was suddenly distracted by the unmistakable sound of dolphins exhaling…and there they were just 20 metres or so away ! What a start to the day….except I had already been up at 04:00 and been out with the very knowledgeable Bennie Mambrasar on a bird watching tour. I spent maybe 3 hours or more watching the incredible Wilson’s bird of paradise…awesome and beyond expectations.
After breakfast Ebu made us a picnic lunch and I set off with papa and Bennie in his boat. Snorkelling at the beautiful Friwen island and then a trip to a gorgeous uninhabited island in Kabul bay. On the way we saw whales.
Bennie pointed out many wonderful birds and wild orchids during our trip.
Returned to find ebu made some amazing snacks with a cup of tea to refresh after a slightly bumpy boat trip.
Then, as if my day could not get any better, papa spotted a cuscus in a very tall tree in the home stays garden. As they are nocturnal it was not really moving about much. So after dinner we spent a very happy 30 minutes or so following it around in the jungle. Accompanied by huge fruit bats and the inevitable friendly dog or 2
These people are just so lovely, friendly and helpful. Nothing is a problem for them.
English is a bit of a problem for them, not Bennie the guide, but nevertheless everything worked fine.
As with most homestays the food is quite basic but is enough and very tasty too. The toilets could be a bit cleaner but were far from the worst I have seen.
Electricity comes on in the evening until maybe 2 am.
Sapokoren village is an easy 20 minute walk away and very basic supplies are available here, many dogs in village who like to bark…a lot !
Waisai is about 20 to 30 minutes by car and quite a good road.
There is a dive resort quite close by that will take non guests diving and collect from the home stay, I did not go diving in the end as wanted to go see the birds of paradise.
There is no alcohol available at home stay But if you ask they may go and buy some for you.
Overall I really enjoyed my stay here and have no hesitation in recommending this place. Just, as with everywhere in raja ampat, don’t expect high service standards. It’s not a Hilton hotel !
Learn some bahasa, smile, be friendly and you will build memories that last a lifetime.
Hello,
We are a family of 5 and would like 2 overwater bungalows (one room of 3 and a room of 2).
Is this possible?
All the best
Tom
It is Tom. If you’re sure of the dates you want, submit the booking request form for 5 guests and 2 over-water rooms.
Hello,
We are a family of 5 and would like 2 overwater bungalows (one room of 3 and a room of 2).
Is this possible?
All the best
Tom
It is Tom. If you’re sure of the dates you want, submit the booking request form for 5 guests and 2 over-water rooms.
We spent 2 pleasant nights at Yengkankane with very tasty food and very comfortable hammocks!
Although the Wilson’s BOP did not show up, we had a great walk in the jungle observing Waigeo’s impressive bird and arthropod biodiversity.
We would come back here anytime if we were in the area and can definitely recommend the place.
We spent 2 pleasant nights at Yengkankane with very tasty food and very comfortable hammocks!
Although the Wilson’s BOP did not show up, we had a great walk in the jungle observing Waigeo’s impressive bird and arthropod biodiversity.
We would come back here anytime if we were in the area and can definitely recommend the place.
I stayed here for 1 night and although I was a bit disappointed by the murky, macroalgae filled reef right underneath the bungalow, I was pleasantly surprised with the incredible reef a few metres into the water. Awesome reef with many untouched large table corals and many fish – great snorkelling although try to ask for the entry / exit points as at low tide you might not be able to get in or out without stepping on corals. I went out on low tide and just managed to pass through without touching anything although this might be tricky if the tide was lower. Of all 5 homestays I stayed at Yenkangkanes had the best food although it’s quite spicy. Plenty of fruit and veg served including durian! Everyone was super helpful and they showed us an amazing snorkeling spot just off the jetty on the other side of the village cemetery – the snorkeling here was amazing although note that there are people fishing from this jetty so be careful with the fishing lines and hooks. I saw a wobbegong shark here and the biggest shoal of fish ever – there were hundreds and thousands and very active. We took a tour to see the Wilsons bird of Paradise and Beni and his assistants did a great job although be warned – you need to meet him at 5am and walk uphill a slippery road through the jungle for over an hour – totally worth it though. Great hospitality at this homestay – definitely recommend it.
I stayed here for 1 night and although I was a bit disappointed by the murky, macroalgae filled reef right underneath the bungalow, I was pleasantly surprised with the incredible reef a few metres into the water. Awesome reef with many untouched large table corals and many fish – great snorkelling although try to ask for the entry / exit points as at low tide you might not be able to get in or out without stepping on corals. I went out on low tide and just managed to pass through without touching anything although this might be tricky if the tide was lower. Of all 5 homestays I stayed at Yenkangkanes had the best food although it’s quite spicy. Plenty of fruit and veg served including durian! Everyone was super helpful and they showed us an amazing snorkeling spot just off the jetty on the other side of the village cemetery – the snorkeling here was amazing although note that there are people fishing from this jetty so be careful with the fishing lines and hooks. I saw a wobbegong shark here and the biggest shoal of fish ever – there were hundreds and thousands and very active. We took a tour to see the Wilsons bird of Paradise and Beni and his assistants did a great job although be warned – you need to meet him at 5am and walk uphill a slippery road through the jungle for over an hour – totally worth it though. Great hospitality at this homestay – definitely recommend it.
The owner confirmed my booking also by WhatsApp but finally she didn’t come to pick us up and she didn’t have a room either. We were left standing in the sun without a room. Very bad, very rude. Totally unreliable.
The owner confirmed my booking also by WhatsApp but finally she didn’t come to pick us up and she didn’t have a room either. We were left standing in the sun without a room. Very bad, very rude. Totally unreliable.
Best food for sure as can be seen in other comments as well.
Snorkeling in front of the resort is awesome as well.
Their rates for bird watching maybe higher then Abraham who is from the neighboring homestay…
Best food for sure as can be seen in other comments as well.
Snorkeling in front of the resort is awesome as well.
Their rates for bird watching maybe higher then Abraham who is from the neighboring homestay…
Horrible homestay!! La comida regular tirando a mal, los dueños muy poco preocupados por sus huéspedes. No recomendable
Horrible homestay!! La comida regular tirando a mal, los dueños muy poco preocupados por sus huéspedes. No recomendable
When you go and look for birds of Paradise, Do you look at them from self made hideaways? Or do they display in the trees? I m looking for a homestay wich has these hideaways so you can get close to them without harming them on their display. I have seen the red birds of Paradise allready, I m looking for other BOP.
Hi Toby
If you go with guides from Yenkangkanes (or any of the the other nearby homestays) you’ll be observing Wilson’s BoP from hides. (They display close to the ground.)
When you go and look for birds of Paradise, Do you look at them from self made hideaways? Or do they display in the trees? I m looking for a homestay wich has these hideaways so you can get close to them without harming them on their display. I have seen the red birds of Paradise allready, I m looking for other BOP.
Hi Toby
If you go with guides from Yenkangkanes (or any of the the other nearby homestays) you’ll be observing Wilson’s BoP from hides. (They display close to the ground.)
I stayed here for 5 nights in May if 2018. I stayed in RA for a month, 4 islands and 6 homestays. By far the absolute best food is here. Many different kinds of food at each meal, lots of fruit and veggies. The family is great, bed is large and the birds are everywhere! Snorkeled once out front, nothing special but I came here for the birds and there are so many!
I stayed here for 5 nights in May if 2018. I stayed in RA for a month, 4 islands and 6 homestays. By far the absolute best food is here. Many different kinds of food at each meal, lots of fruit and veggies. The family is great, bed is large and the birds are everywhere! Snorkeled once out front, nothing special but I came here for the birds and there are so many!
This homestay is an oasis of hospitality and good food and it really stands out from the rest. Margarita cooks wonderful homemade food and there is always plenty of it! You will enjoy fish that is steamed or grilled to perfection, keeping its juices.
Beni offers a really good birdwatching tour, I saw both birds of paradise. If you are not a birdwatcher – like myself – he will lend you binoculars and show you many birds. The house reef has some really beautiful coral formations and is nice for snorkeling. Try to book the bungalows on the waterfront if available – nicer than the ones at the back.
I can only recommend this homestay as we felt really well taken care of as guests.
This homestay is an oasis of hospitality and good food and it really stands out from the rest. Margarita cooks wonderful homemade food and there is always plenty of it! You will enjoy fish that is steamed or grilled to perfection, keeping its juices.
Beni offers a really good birdwatching tour, I saw both birds of paradise. If you are not a birdwatcher – like myself – he will lend you binoculars and show you many birds. The house reef has some really beautiful coral formations and is nice for snorkeling. Try to book the bungalows on the waterfront if available – nicer than the ones at the back.
I can only recommend this homestay as we felt really well taken care of as guests.
We stayed here for 3 nights in December 2017. The requested pickup at Waisai harbor went fine and the access to the homestay by car was easy. The homestay has a nice private beach, also beautiful when seen from the water, and we enjoyed the house reef. We had booked the overnight bungalow but unfortunately it was not available for our first night so we stayed in the land bungalow. We liked the overwater one much better, it has fewer bugs and a nice big terrace. A couple of suggestions: the mosquito nets had many holes that need some fixing and the trash should be collected, especially since the bin is hanging over the water (we took all our trash with us but the bin was full from the previous group and was never emptied).
The major highlight from this homestay was the food, the best we had during our 2 weeks in Raja Ampat!! It was plenty and with a lot of variation and great taste (different veggies, fish, squid, eggs…). There was also fruit with every meal (melon, papaya, watermelom) and there were bananas and cookies on the table all day long.
There is easy access to Saporkren village, it’s a wonderful 15 minute walk along the road and some wooden walkways over the water. The village is clean, colorful and people very cheerful. We crossed the cemetery at the far end of the village to snorkel in the small bay beyond (as recommended in other reviews) and loved it! The beach is beautiful, the jetty full of playful children on top and dense school of fish underneath!
This homestay is also a nice starting point to go birding, Benny knows the jungle very well. First we saw the red BOP and then continued on to the Wilson’s BOP (total hike of about 1.5h one way). The hide from the Wilson’s allows you to see it from real close! They did want to charge more than stated on this website so check for the price. We also did a half-day 2-stop snorkeling tour and they wanted to charge almost the price for a whole day (5-stop) snorkeling tour, so again we suggest to check beforehand!
Overall, we loved our experience at Yenkangkanes, totally recommended!
We stayed here for 3 nights in December 2017. The requested pickup at Waisai harbor went fine and the access to the homestay by car was easy. The homestay has a nice private beach, also beautiful when seen from the water, and we enjoyed the house reef. We had booked the overnight bungalow but unfortunately it was not available for our first night so we stayed in the land bungalow. We liked the overwater one much better, it has fewer bugs and a nice big terrace. A couple of suggestions: the mosquito nets had many holes that need some fixing and the trash should be collected, especially since the bin is hanging over the water (we took all our trash with us but the bin was full from the previous group and was never emptied).
The major highlight from this homestay was the food, the best we had during our 2 weeks in Raja Ampat!! It was plenty and with a lot of variation and great taste (different veggies, fish, squid, eggs…). There was also fruit with every meal (melon, papaya, watermelom) and there were bananas and cookies on the table all day long.
There is easy access to Saporkren village, it’s a wonderful 15 minute walk along the road and some wooden walkways over the water. The village is clean, colorful and people very cheerful. We crossed the cemetery at the far end of the village to snorkel in the small bay beyond (as recommended in other reviews) and loved it! The beach is beautiful, the jetty full of playful children on top and dense school of fish underneath!
This homestay is also a nice starting point to go birding, Benny knows the jungle very well. First we saw the red BOP and then continued on to the Wilson’s BOP (total hike of about 1.5h one way). The hide from the Wilson’s allows you to see it from real close! They did want to charge more than stated on this website so check for the price. We also did a half-day 2-stop snorkeling tour and they wanted to charge almost the price for a whole day (5-stop) snorkeling tour, so again we suggest to check beforehand!
Overall, we loved our experience at Yenkangkanes, totally recommended!
Food was great and service friendly. Toilets really need to be improved though, they were the worst out of 5 homestays we stayed in. One of the doors doesn’t lock and generally they are in need of bit of attention. The homestay is on the road from Waisai so easy to reach by car from harbour or airport. It lacked the secluded feel we were looking for and we personally didn’t enjoy the water bungalow that much – you are in very close quarters with whoever is staying next to you with very limited space and privacy. Not for us but still a good homestay still. BoP watching can be easily arranged with Benny/Frankie,
Also….suggest putting a ladder into the water from the water bungalow – it would make such a difference for snorkeling!
Food was great and service friendly. Toilets really need to be improved though, they were the worst out of 5 homestays we stayed in. One of the doors doesn’t lock and generally they are in need of bit of attention. The homestay is on the road from Waisai so easy to reach by car from harbour or airport. It lacked the secluded feel we were looking for and we personally didn’t enjoy the water bungalow that much – you are in very close quarters with whoever is staying next to you with very limited space and privacy. Not for us but still a good homestay still. BoP watching can be easily arranged with Benny/Frankie,
Also….suggest putting a ladder into the water from the water bungalow – it would make such a difference for snorkeling!
Is it available tomorrow?
Unlikely at such short notice Rachel, but you never know. Warimpurem is right next door and might have a room if Yenkangkanes doesn’t. You’ll need to call to find out. Good luck –
and Happy New Year!
Is it available tomorrow?
Unlikely at such short notice Rachel, but you never know. Warimpurem is right next door and might have a room if Yenkangkanes doesn’t. You’ll need to call to find out. Good luck –
and Happy New Year!
My reserved water bungalow was not available when I arrived.
My reserved water bungalow was not available when I arrived.
I booked for five nights and stayed 19. So relaxing. Hesty and Margaretha cooked great food. Plenty of bird watching and snorkelling close at hand.
I booked for five nights and stayed 19. So relaxing. Hesty and Margaretha cooked great food. Plenty of bird watching and snorkelling close at hand.
We loved this place. We had the bungalow over water with this great view. Didn’t see any dolphins, though!
Then this excellent food Margaretha each time again managed to cook for us. We also had a fantastic boat ride to this small white beached island where we did some great snorkeling.
To be short: a wonderful place to be !!!!
We loved this place. We had the bungalow over water with this great view. Didn’t see any dolphins, though!
Then this excellent food Margaretha each time again managed to cook for us. We also had a fantastic boat ride to this small white beached island where we did some great snorkeling.
To be short: a wonderful place to be !!!!
Great home stay ! Margaretha is very good cook, something different in the sauces every day. Snorkelling, birdwatching, walking through the rainforest. Great ! Highly recommended.
Great home stay ! Margaretha is very good cook, something different in the sauces every day. Snorkelling, birdwatching, walking through the rainforest. Great ! Highly recommended.
hello all,
I tried using the online booking form here and didn’t receive a reply from this Homestay. I then used skype and called Florens.. Who, after about 10 minutes, was able to confirm my booking verbally. I did provide for her my email, hoping to receive a written confirmation of the booking, but to no avail. Anyway, I managed to verbally confirm a 4 day (3 night stay) with Florens. Has anyone else stayed with them where they booked via a skype/phone call, but didn’t actually receive a written confirmation? I’m just trying to gauge what the chances are that they will not be expecting me when I arrive on their doorstep lol (right about now, I’m thinking I think the odds are substantially high! haha)
Hi Tom –
You should be fine. Warimpurem Homestay is right next door in the unlikely event you arrive to find that Yenkangkanes isn’t aware of your booking and is full.
Note that because the website booking system has to use SMS to communicate with homestays, a couple of attempts are sometimes necessary before you receive confirmation.
All the best for your stay!
Thank you very much for your assurances!
-T
hello all,
I tried using the online booking form here and didn’t receive a reply from this Homestay. I then used skype and called Florens.. Who, after about 10 minutes, was able to confirm my booking verbally. I did provide for her my email, hoping to receive a written confirmation of the booking, but to no avail. Anyway, I managed to verbally confirm a 4 day (3 night stay) with Florens. Has anyone else stayed with them where they booked via a skype/phone call, but didn’t actually receive a written confirmation? I’m just trying to gauge what the chances are that they will not be expecting me when I arrive on their doorstep lol (right about now, I’m thinking I think the odds are substantially high! haha)
Hi Tom –
You should be fine. Warimpurem Homestay is right next door in the unlikely event you arrive to find that Yenkangkanes isn’t aware of your booking and is full.
Note that because the website booking system has to use SMS to communicate with homestays, a couple of attempts are sometimes necessary before you receive confirmation.
All the best for your stay!
Thank you very much for your assurances!
-T
Lovely homestay with simple rooms over water. Food was good and varied, with more veggies than many RA homestays. Obviously fish is a staple. Snorkeling is good in front of the homestay, but much better if you walk through the village to the secret bay beyond the village cemetery. Birdwatching is great in the forest behind. There is a good English-speaking bird guide that you can hire to take you to where the bird of paradise display, but don’t expect them to perform with certainty. Mosquitos and other vermin were not a problem.
Lovely homestay with simple rooms over water. Food was good and varied, with more veggies than many RA homestays. Obviously fish is a staple. Snorkeling is good in front of the homestay, but much better if you walk through the village to the secret bay beyond the village cemetery. Birdwatching is great in the forest behind. There is a good English-speaking bird guide that you can hire to take you to where the bird of paradise display, but don’t expect them to perform with certainty. Mosquitos and other vermin were not a problem.
We just stayed here for three nights. Great location on little beach in over the water room, nice and cool with plenty of space to sit out and put a hammock. Food was absolutely delicious and very plentiful. Everyone very friendly and nice village a sort walk away. We saw Cuscus around the homestay a few times and also dolphins on the drop off. Lots of villagers passing in the evening in boats singing and waving. It’s just a short drive from Waisai ferry.
Don’t miss the birds of paradise trip with Benny who lives over the road from the homestay. He is a real gentleman and very enthusiastic about birds, his hours are very reasonable and he shows you many, many things.
We just stayed here for three nights. Great location on little beach in over the water room, nice and cool with plenty of space to sit out and put a hammock. Food was absolutely delicious and very plentiful. Everyone very friendly and nice village a sort walk away. We saw Cuscus around the homestay a few times and also dolphins on the drop off. Lots of villagers passing in the evening in boats singing and waving. It’s just a short drive from Waisai ferry.
Don’t miss the birds of paradise trip with Benny who lives over the road from the homestay. He is a real gentleman and very enthusiastic about birds, his hours are very reasonable and he shows you many, many things.
We stayed there for 3 nights and would definitely recommend the Homestay. We stayed in the room above the water which was really lovely, watching birds and the odd dolphin go by.
The owners here were great. Really top notch food and very attentive to filling up your water by your room.
The snorkelling is pretty good out in front of the Homestay with good corals and fish life. We were lucky to see a blacktip shark and a cuttlefish. If you want somewhere else to snorkel walk to the village (Sapoken, bad spelling) very friendly kids and locals, it’s worth bringing some money for snacks. If you carry on through the village you get to the West Pier, through the graveyard, which has great fish life. We were completely surrounded by fish and they were smashing into us!
We also did both the Wilson and Red birds of paradise which is definitely worth doing. We were taken by Benny who is a very accomplished bird guide not just in waigeo but also the rest of Papua. He pointed out all sorts of birds which we would normally miss.
Overall this Homestay is a great stepping stone before going further to Kri and Gam. With a great variety of activities and friendly owners it is a must stay in my opinion.
We stayed there for 3 nights and would definitely recommend the Homestay. We stayed in the room above the water which was really lovely, watching birds and the odd dolphin go by.
The owners here were great. Really top notch food and very attentive to filling up your water by your room.
The snorkelling is pretty good out in front of the Homestay with good corals and fish life. We were lucky to see a blacktip shark and a cuttlefish. If you want somewhere else to snorkel walk to the village (Sapoken, bad spelling) very friendly kids and locals, it’s worth bringing some money for snacks. If you carry on through the village you get to the West Pier, through the graveyard, which has great fish life. We were completely surrounded by fish and they were smashing into us!
We also did both the Wilson and Red birds of paradise which is definitely worth doing. We were taken by Benny who is a very accomplished bird guide not just in waigeo but also the rest of Papua. He pointed out all sorts of birds which we would normally miss.
Overall this Homestay is a great stepping stone before going further to Kri and Gam. With a great variety of activities and friendly owners it is a must stay in my opinion.
A lovely spot. It is rare that your holiday destination is actually nicer than you imagined but this was the case. The room overlooking the ocean was so lovely that it was a struggle to get out and enjoy the Birds of Paradise or walk down to the delightful local village along the beach. I spent 6 days here but that was not enough time.
A lovely spot. It is rare that your holiday destination is actually nicer than you imagined but this was the case. The room overlooking the ocean was so lovely that it was a struggle to get out and enjoy the Birds of Paradise or walk down to the delightful local village along the beach. I spent 6 days here but that was not enough time.
Yenkangkanes is excellent. We (2 adults and 1 child (11yo) stayed there on 27/12/2016. I regret that we stayed only 1 night in Yenkangkanes. We should stayed there for 3 nights instead of move to Kri (see my review on Mambetron). They sent Wilson to pick us up from Waisai, all went very well. We did Wilson & Red Bird of Paradise walk the next morning (be ready to wake up at 4am), it was excellent! Ibu Margaretha provided us with the best food in Raja Ampat! We stayed in 4 different accommodation on our 10 days trip and no one beats her in cooking. They also provided us with fruits, water and hot water is always available on our verandah. The family keeps the accommodation clean. The toilet & shower are very CLEAN. It was a fabulous stay, I will stay there again when we return to Raja Ampat one day. Thank you Yenkangkanes.
Yenkangkanes is excellent. We (2 adults and 1 child (11yo) stayed there on 27/12/2016. I regret that we stayed only 1 night in Yenkangkanes. We should stayed there for 3 nights instead of move to Kri (see my review on Mambetron). They sent Wilson to pick us up from Waisai, all went very well. We did Wilson & Red Bird of Paradise walk the next morning (be ready to wake up at 4am), it was excellent! Ibu Margaretha provided us with the best food in Raja Ampat! We stayed in 4 different accommodation on our 10 days trip and no one beats her in cooking. They also provided us with fruits, water and hot water is always available on our verandah. The family keeps the accommodation clean. The toilet & shower are very CLEAN. It was a fabulous stay, I will stay there again when we return to Raja Ampat one day. Thank you Yenkangkanes.
Take a taxi from the ferry about 30 minutes. Nice family who serves very good food. Delightful accommodation on the water, we saw dolfins and waving villagers in their boats. Here is opportunity to see the paradise birds Wilsson and Red. Benny is a good English speaking guide.
Take a taxi from the ferry about 30 minutes. Nice family who serves very good food. Delightful accommodation on the water, we saw dolfins and waving villagers in their boats. Here is opportunity to see the paradise birds Wilsson and Red. Benny is a good English speaking guide.
I stayed here my first night , we had no pick up waiting and I had Tex a message we wanted a waisai pick up. I did not want to make arrangements then go off elsewhere. If I did this again and there was no one waiting I would get on a boat and go else where. But the cabin over the water was superb. No reef but a wonderful sunset and lots of different veggies. Good food.
I stayed here my first night , we had no pick up waiting and I had Tex a message we wanted a waisai pick up. I did not want to make arrangements then go off elsewhere. If I did this again and there was no one waiting I would get on a boat and go else where. But the cabin over the water was superb. No reef but a wonderful sunset and lots of different veggies. Good food.
We recently returned to UK from an amazing 3 weeks trip around this part of indonesia and west Papua and can highly recommend
Yenkangkanes Homestay
Yenros Homestay
We stayed 3 nights in both home stays. Yenkangkanes – we had room over the sea with sea breeze. Thoroughly enjoyed the added bonus of sitting on the veranda to watching the tide come in and out – saw so much just looking into the crystal clear water. Snorkelling from beach was easy and fascinating. Walking trip to see Wilson’s bird of paradise for dawn an incredible sight. went from here for ~20 min boat to Yenros. Excellent place to stay -lovely family with a delightful 4 year old , beautiful beach and again great easy snorkelling. My three bits of advice regarding snorkelling are: a rash shirt or equivalent for sun protection is essential and watch out if you are out snorkelling and it is near low tide you will need to find the channel the boat comes in to find your way back for safe clearance from the corals. You will need to bring your own gear. Flippers at Yenkankanes not sure at Yenros
We recently returned to UK from an amazing 3 weeks trip around this part of indonesia and west Papua and can highly recommend
Yenkangkanes Homestay
Yenros Homestay
We stayed 3 nights in both home stays. Yenkangkanes – we had room over the sea with sea breeze. Thoroughly enjoyed the added bonus of sitting on the veranda to watching the tide come in and out – saw so much just looking into the crystal clear water. Snorkelling from beach was easy and fascinating. Walking trip to see Wilson’s bird of paradise for dawn an incredible sight. went from here for ~20 min boat to Yenros. Excellent place to stay -lovely family with a delightful 4 year old , beautiful beach and again great easy snorkelling. My three bits of advice regarding snorkelling are: a rash shirt or equivalent for sun protection is essential and watch out if you are out snorkelling and it is near low tide you will need to find the channel the boat comes in to find your way back for safe clearance from the corals. You will need to bring your own gear. Flippers at Yenkankanes not sure at Yenros
I have not stayed with you but I am coming with a friend nov 14 . We arrive Sunday 13 and hope to take the 9 am boat to waisai . Stay a few days and do excursions .
Can I get permit in waisai ? Is office open by 8 am in Sorong mo day before boat leaves
Saya bicara sedikit Bahasa . Tetapi easier for me to write in English
Hi Zuni
Yenkangkanes won’t see your comment here as they have no internet connection. The permit office in Sorong doesn’t open before the 9am ferry leaves, but you can get one in Waisai as described here.
I have not stayed with you but I am coming with a friend nov 14 . We arrive Sunday 13 and hope to take the 9 am boat to waisai . Stay a few days and do excursions .
Can I get permit in waisai ? Is office open by 8 am in Sorong mo day before boat leaves
Saya bicara sedikit Bahasa . Tetapi easier for me to write in English
Hi Zuni
Yenkangkanes won’t see your comment here as they have no internet connection. The permit office in Sorong doesn’t open before the 9am ferry leaves, but you can get one in Waisai as described here.
Forgot to leave the stars!
Forgot to leave the stars!
Stayed 2 nights at Yenkangkanes in September 2016, one of 3 homestays we visited. We made this our first base on arrival at Waisai, as it was close to the port and quick and easy to get to by car. One of the people at the visitors centre can get a vehicle for you.
The over water bungalow was good – decent size room, comfortable mattress, good mossie net and a nice verandah to sit on and gaze out to sea. We saw dolphins from here on one of the evenings.
The bathroom was basic but clean, with a simple kind of a shower which made washing much easier than the normal mandi!
Food was good and plentiful. Also some nice touches like afternoon snacks. We were up very early both mornings to go birding. On the first morning we were brought hot water and banana fritters at 4:30am which were very welcome, but on the second morning we weren’t given anything before leaving.
We were taken birding by Abraham both days, who seemed to be one of the family members. The walk is pretty steep and hot, but is manageable as long as you have enough water with you. On the first day we initially went to the Red Bird of Paradise display site and watched a great display, although the display trees are pretty tall so you are relatively far away (NB: the display trees on Gam island are a lot closer). We then went to the site for Wilson’s Bird of Paradise and were treated to an amazing sighting of this wonderful bird. We enjoyed this so much we went back – just to the Wilson’s site – the next morning and it was well worth the second trip.
Price for the trips were 200,000R per person per display site, so 800,000R for the first day and 400,000R for the second. Abraham was also knowledgeable about other birds.
The homestay also arranged a longboat to take us to Nudibranch homestay, which turned up in time and cost 1,000,000R.
Overall, would recommend.
Stayed 2 nights at Yenkangkanes in September 2016, one of 3 homestays we visited. We made this our first base on arrival at Waisai, as it was close to the port and quick and easy to get to by car. One of the people at the visitors centre can get a vehicle for you.
The over water bungalow was good – decent size room, comfortable mattress, good mossie net and a nice verandah to sit on and gaze out to sea. We saw dolphins from here on one of the evenings.
The bathroom was basic but clean, with a simple kind of a shower which made washing much easier than the normal mandi!
Food was good and plentiful. Also some nice touches like afternoon snacks. We were up very early both mornings to go birding. On the first morning we were brought hot water and banana fritters at 4:30am which were very welcome, but on the second morning we weren’t given anything before leaving.
We were taken birding by Abraham both days, who seemed to be one of the family members. The walk is pretty steep and hot, but is manageable as long as you have enough water with you. On the first day we initially went to the Red Bird of Paradise display site and watched a great display, although the display trees are pretty tall so you are relatively far away (NB: the display trees on Gam island are a lot closer). We then went to the site for Wilson’s Bird of Paradise and were treated to an amazing sighting of this wonderful bird. We enjoyed this so much we went back – just to the Wilson’s site – the next morning and it was well worth the second trip.
Price for the trips were 200,000R per person per display site, so 800,000R for the first day and 400,000R for the second. Abraham was also knowledgeable about other birds.
The homestay also arranged a longboat to take us to Nudibranch homestay, which turned up in time and cost 1,000,000R.
Overall, would recommend.
Hi. Anyone planning to be here around 2nd week October 2016?
Hi. Anyone planning to be here around 2nd week October 2016?
Good service from homestay. We always come back late in the afternoon, but mama will go to the kitchen and prepare for our lunch everyday. Food is good. For BOP, just walk for 1.5 hour in very early morning. Guide can take you the place that easy to see both of BOP.
Good service from homestay. We always come back late in the afternoon, but mama will go to the kitchen and prepare for our lunch everyday. Food is good. For BOP, just walk for 1.5 hour in very early morning. Guide can take you the place that easy to see both of BOP.
We had a wonderful time at Yenkangkanes.
The things we liked about this homestay were:
+ It’s a great base for seeing the Wilson’s Bird of Paradise (and many other endemic birds) as well as some incredible insect life
+ Margarethe (and her extended family) were super friendly and made us feel very much at home. Margarethe is also a superb cook!
+ It’s a great base to find your feet in Raja Ampat before venturing out to more remote places
+ Our hosts were very helpful in organising trips, excursions and transport (Melky took us to see the Wilson’s Bird of Paradise and worked very hard to make sure we had a great experience)
+ It’s close to Waisai, so very accessible by ojek or car
Yenkangkanes was quite busy compared with other homestays. But if you’re a solo traveller this means it’s a great place to meet other like-minded people. The beach is not as pretty (or remote) as some others but there is still very good snorkelling out the front and close-by. There were also plenty of dolphins frolicking in the waters out the front and great sunsets.
The Raja Ampat Dive Resort is a ten minute walk away if you’re desperate for a cold beer. It’s also easy (and cheap) to hire a kayak from here to explore the coastline (which is a lovely thing to do in the late afternoon).
A big thanks to Margarethe and all for making our stay so enjoyable. Injo nabor, Margarethe!
We had a wonderful time at Yenkangkanes.
The things we liked about this homestay were:
+ It’s a great base for seeing the Wilson’s Bird of Paradise (and many other endemic birds) as well as some incredible insect life
+ Margarethe (and her extended family) were super friendly and made us feel very much at home. Margarethe is also a superb cook!
+ It’s a great base to find your feet in Raja Ampat before venturing out to more remote places
+ Our hosts were very helpful in organising trips, excursions and transport (Melky took us to see the Wilson’s Bird of Paradise and worked very hard to make sure we had a great experience)
+ It’s close to Waisai, so very accessible by ojek or car
Yenkangkanes was quite busy compared with other homestays. But if you’re a solo traveller this means it’s a great place to meet other like-minded people. The beach is not as pretty (or remote) as some others but there is still very good snorkelling out the front and close-by. There were also plenty of dolphins frolicking in the waters out the front and great sunsets.
The Raja Ampat Dive Resort is a ten minute walk away if you’re desperate for a cold beer. It’s also easy (and cheap) to hire a kayak from here to explore the coastline (which is a lovely thing to do in the late afternoon).
A big thanks to Margarethe and all for making our stay so enjoyable. Injo nabor, Margarethe!
On my way back from Kri I did stay a second time at this nice place
On my way back from Kri I did stay a second time at this nice place
I have had a wonderful time at this place! Did stay 5 days.
Very friendly hosting. Margareta is a very good cook! Breakfast came to my bungalow always with a big smile.
Boat to Gam in the morning on time.
I think at the end of my trip I will stay there again!!!
I have had a wonderful time at this place! Did stay 5 days.
Very friendly hosting. Margareta is a very good cook! Breakfast came to my bungalow always with a big smile.
Boat to Gam in the morning on time.
I think at the end of my trip I will stay there again!!!
Four of us made this our first stop. Benny met us at the ferry and got us transportation to the homestay. We had a very hot and strenuous hike to see both BOP. The whole trip was about 6 hours long and we had misinformation about how long the hike would be. We were drenched in sweat, and could have benefited from more water and brought snacks if we’d realized how long it would be. We were rewarded with lots of birds including the stars. Also saw cuscus. Benny was a wonderful naturalist and we appreciated his sense of humor.
Food was delicious. Adults, kids, and dogs were friendly. Gorgeous hike if you realize its a bit more than 20 minutes and its pretty much all uphill on the way there. Good house reef. The beds and sitting area with coffee and tea and fruit on the veranda were the nicest we stayed at. The walkway over the water and the deck are a bit rickety and could benefit from some more skilled carpentry to make them safer.
All in all this was our favorite homestay experience and best guide.
Four of us made this our first stop. Benny met us at the ferry and got us transportation to the homestay. We had a very hot and strenuous hike to see both BOP. The whole trip was about 6 hours long and we had misinformation about how long the hike would be. We were drenched in sweat, and could have benefited from more water and brought snacks if we’d realized how long it would be. We were rewarded with lots of birds including the stars. Also saw cuscus. Benny was a wonderful naturalist and we appreciated his sense of humor.
Food was delicious. Adults, kids, and dogs were friendly. Gorgeous hike if you realize its a bit more than 20 minutes and its pretty much all uphill on the way there. Good house reef. The beds and sitting area with coffee and tea and fruit on the veranda were the nicest we stayed at. The walkway over the water and the deck are a bit rickety and could benefit from some more skilled carpentry to make them safer.
All in all this was our favorite homestay experience and best guide.
We stayed here for 3 nights at the over-water bungalow. The view and location was great, however you really feel every move that someone is making on the jetty or in the other room. So not to be recommended for light sleepers. Margareta and her family were very helpful and the food was good and always enough. Bathroom was very basic, but clean. The beach here is not really as nice as at other locations (Kri, etc.). But it´s a good location to do some exkursions. We went diving with Raja Ampat Dive Resort, which is a 10 Minute walk away and compared with the homestay dive places we felt a lot saver. The managers Steffi & Martin were super nice and we also did a trip to Wayag with them, which was amazing. Also if you want to get a cold beer, this is the place. Overall a nice place to stay, if you want to do excursions and stuff from there.
We stayed here for 3 nights at the over-water bungalow. The view and location was great, however you really feel every move that someone is making on the jetty or in the other room. So not to be recommended for light sleepers. Margareta and her family were very helpful and the food was good and always enough. Bathroom was very basic, but clean. The beach here is not really as nice as at other locations (Kri, etc.). But it´s a good location to do some exkursions. We went diving with Raja Ampat Dive Resort, which is a 10 Minute walk away and compared with the homestay dive places we felt a lot saver. The managers Steffi & Martin were super nice and we also did a trip to Wayag with them, which was amazing. Also if you want to get a cold beer, this is the place. Overall a nice place to stay, if you want to do excursions and stuff from there.
Had a mixed experience here! My booking was confirmed through Stay Raja Ampat and I requested pickup in Waisai, but the homestay had no record of my booking and told me they were full. This may be an issue with the booking site and not the homestay, however.
Also, I’m not sure if the contact info provided by the booking site is correct – I sent an SMS to Florens to confirm but never received a reply.
The room was simple, but the homestay was beautiful! I stayed in a land bungalow, and was very jealous of the guests staying in the ocean bungalow. The food was OK – some nights, it was absolutely amazing, but for some meals, it was just leftovers from breakfast or lunch.
The trek to see the birds-of-paradise was awesome – saw both the Red and the Wilson’s. Benny, the local guide, was already taking another group, so I went with Milky (his brother).
Either the price advertised by Stay Raja Ampat for the tour (300,000 idr) is incorrect, or Milky overcharged me – either way, I got charged 550,000 to see both.
There isn’t much snorkeling in front of the homestay, but there’s great snorkeling down the road.
Overall, I would probably recommend another homestay, unless your only goal is to see the birds of paradise.
Hi John and thanks for the feedback –
When you make a booking through the website booking form, you are doing so directly with the homestay, as explained here, so… 😉
Our apologies if the supplementary contact details and tour prices are outdated: While most homestays are great at updating us regarding the booking system number and accommodation prices, other details often get forgotten about. It would be a whole lot easier if we were based in Raja Ampat!
Had a mixed experience here! My booking was confirmed through Stay Raja Ampat and I requested pickup in Waisai, but the homestay had no record of my booking and told me they were full. This may be an issue with the booking site and not the homestay, however.
Also, I’m not sure if the contact info provided by the booking site is correct – I sent an SMS to Florens to confirm but never received a reply.
The room was simple, but the homestay was beautiful! I stayed in a land bungalow, and was very jealous of the guests staying in the ocean bungalow. The food was OK – some nights, it was absolutely amazing, but for some meals, it was just leftovers from breakfast or lunch.
The trek to see the birds-of-paradise was awesome – saw both the Red and the Wilson’s. Benny, the local guide, was already taking another group, so I went with Milky (his brother).
Either the price advertised by Stay Raja Ampat for the tour (300,000 idr) is incorrect, or Milky overcharged me – either way, I got charged 550,000 to see both.
There isn’t much snorkeling in front of the homestay, but there’s great snorkeling down the road.
Overall, I would probably recommend another homestay, unless your only goal is to see the birds of paradise.
Hi John and thanks for the feedback –
When you make a booking through the website booking form, you are doing so directly with the homestay, as explained here, so… 😉
Our apologies if the supplementary contact details and tour prices are outdated: While most homestays are great at updating us regarding the booking system number and accommodation prices, other details often get forgotten about. It would be a whole lot easier if we were based in Raja Ampat!
We had a lovely 1 night stay here with Margarita and her family at their gorgeously rustic homestay, complete with pet parrots. It was a wondering experience waking up over the water.
Would recommend to all.
We had a lovely 1 night stay here with Margarita and her family at their gorgeously rustic homestay, complete with pet parrots. It was a wondering experience waking up over the water.
Would recommend to all.
I had a great time in Yenkangkanes Homestay..staying 3 nights over the water. It felt like real paradise. I wanna say thanks again for a great and delicious food I had. The family is just amazing. Bird guide Benny Mambrasar is the best bird guide!!!He know all the birds and will be anxious to help you find the species you looking for. I can only recommend this man and his father.
Yenkangkanes is great place to stay in Raja Ampat…food,snorkling,jungle and all the birds and sounds around you..I just Love it!!!
I had a great time in Yenkangkanes Homestay..staying 3 nights over the water. It felt like real paradise. I wanna say thanks again for a great and delicious food I had. The family is just amazing. Bird guide Benny Mambrasar is the best bird guide!!!He know all the birds and will be anxious to help you find the species you looking for. I can only recommend this man and his father.
Yenkangkanes is great place to stay in Raja Ampat…food,snorkling,jungle and all the birds and sounds around you..I just Love it!!!
We spent 2 wonderful nights in the over water cottage of Yenkangkens Homestay & had very thrilling & enjoyable experience.
Margarita & her family members are really the people of golden hearts. They do not know English, but silently kept eyes on our safety & comfort & was always there with their welcoming smiles. They served tasty food in huge amount. Margarita’ s daughter Florence knows English, but she was not there during our stay. She sent her English-speaking cousin Abraham, so that we wouldn’t face any communication difficulty. Abraham is a very friendly & cooperative guy. He arranged a fishing boat for us & one afternoon we two along with Abraham & his Girlfriend visited Kri Island for snorkeling. The corals were amazingly beautiful & the landscape was just mesmerising!
Our chief attraction was seeing the display of Red Bird of Paradise & Wilson Bird of Paradise & our motivation was successful! We got great photographs. Our guide Milky was very sincere in his duty & caring by nature.
Yenkangkens Homestay is the ideal place for nature-lovers & not at all suitable for luxury-seekers. Best wishes for all the good people we met in Yenkangkens & the other parts of the village.
We spent 2 wonderful nights in the over water cottage of Yenkangkens Homestay & had very thrilling & enjoyable experience.
Margarita & her family members are really the people of golden hearts. They do not know English, but silently kept eyes on our safety & comfort & was always there with their welcoming smiles. They served tasty food in huge amount. Margarita’ s daughter Florence knows English, but she was not there during our stay. She sent her English-speaking cousin Abraham, so that we wouldn’t face any communication difficulty. Abraham is a very friendly & cooperative guy. He arranged a fishing boat for us & one afternoon we two along with Abraham & his Girlfriend visited Kri Island for snorkeling. The corals were amazingly beautiful & the landscape was just mesmerising!
Our chief attraction was seeing the display of Red Bird of Paradise & Wilson Bird of Paradise & our motivation was successful! We got great photographs. Our guide Milky was very sincere in his duty & caring by nature.
Yenkangkens Homestay is the ideal place for nature-lovers & not at all suitable for luxury-seekers. Best wishes for all the good people we met in Yenkangkens & the other parts of the village.
We stayed here twice for a total of five nights. Florens and her family are wonderful, helpful in every way and very kind. Her father Arnold took us in a small boat (ask for life vests) to a mangrove swamp are where we hiked through some gardens into untouched forest. There are crowned pigeons there but seen better in early morning and late afternoon. It was a very interesting hike and we could have spent all day there. Along the way we met a man washing Sago and another hollowing out a tree for a canoe. Another very interesting hike he took us on was a six hour–very relaxed, we looked at every flower, bug and bird,–loop hike along a road into the interior and back to the nearby village.
I could go on and on about the hospitality at Yenkangkanes. We look forward to returning and spending more time in the area. Yes, we did see the BoP’s and a Palm Cockatoo that visited each morning in trees above the homestay.
We stayed here twice for a total of five nights. Florens and her family are wonderful, helpful in every way and very kind. Her father Arnold took us in a small boat (ask for life vests) to a mangrove swamp are where we hiked through some gardens into untouched forest. There are crowned pigeons there but seen better in early morning and late afternoon. It was a very interesting hike and we could have spent all day there. Along the way we met a man washing Sago and another hollowing out a tree for a canoe. Another very interesting hike he took us on was a six hour–very relaxed, we looked at every flower, bug and bird,–loop hike along a road into the interior and back to the nearby village.
I could go on and on about the hospitality at Yenkangkanes. We look forward to returning and spending more time in the area. Yes, we did see the BoP’s and a Palm Cockatoo that visited each morning in trees above the homestay.
Florens and her family were simply wonderful. Here we had the best food of any of our four homestays. We had a focus on birdwatching and bird guide Benny Mambrasar couldn’t do enough to help us – for a very reasonable rate. Many of the birds we saw at or near Yenkangkanes we did not see elsewhere. And we loved the “over the water” bungalow.
Florens and her family were simply wonderful. Here we had the best food of any of our four homestays. We had a focus on birdwatching and bird guide Benny Mambrasar couldn’t do enough to help us – for a very reasonable rate. Many of the birds we saw at or near Yenkangkanes we did not see elsewhere. And we loved the “over the water” bungalow.
Stayed there 3 nights, in the bungalow on stilts, a little frightening at high tide but waow ! The price was 350 IDR. By the way, another one is under construction. Great food, very friendly and helpful people. Snorkelling is possible, not wonderful though, but I did see a large group of bumpheads and a turtle. Schools of sardines (?) hide in the shadow of the bungalow and at low tide you can watch small mantis shrimps bustling around. Birds of paradise can be seen if you’re ready to wake up very early and climb in the forest but bird lovers can also see the papuan frogmouth up a tree in the homestay right next door and the small road from Waisai is excellent for birding, almost no traffic at all, no guide needed (cockatoos, hornbills, friars, kingfishers, kites, fantails, parrots and others). The village of Saporkren is very close, an easy short walk away. The homestay can arrange any boat trip you might wish but none are cheap.
Stayed there 3 nights, in the bungalow on stilts, a little frightening at high tide but waow ! The price was 350 IDR. By the way, another one is under construction. Great food, very friendly and helpful people. Snorkelling is possible, not wonderful though, but I did see a large group of bumpheads and a turtle. Schools of sardines (?) hide in the shadow of the bungalow and at low tide you can watch small mantis shrimps bustling around. Birds of paradise can be seen if you’re ready to wake up very early and climb in the forest but bird lovers can also see the papuan frogmouth up a tree in the homestay right next door and the small road from Waisai is excellent for birding, almost no traffic at all, no guide needed (cockatoos, hornbills, friars, kingfishers, kites, fantails, parrots and others). The village of Saporkren is very close, an easy short walk away. The homestay can arrange any boat trip you might wish but none are cheap.
Four of us (New Zealanders) stayed two nights here – specifically to see Wilson’s bird of paradise. We had arranged this through Martin (who was recommended to us by the tourism office in Sorong). The bird of paradise trip was outstanding. It involved a 4am start and a 90 minute walk in .. but well worth it. Bird guide Frankie was great and we watched the birds from his hide for over an hour (we were about three metres away from the birds). Angelina’s family are wonderful hosts at the homestay and the meals were great. The two-room bungalow over the water afforded great sunsets. The cost per person they charged us was 450 (not the 350 quoted above). We didn’t snorkel here, however there was no obvious reef nearby. Check out the nearby freshwater spring at low tide !
Thanks for the taking the time to write these reviews Simon – it’s much appreciated 🙂
one clarification needed; is the snorkeling gear means bringing snorkel only? because it is tough to carry fin and life-jacket…is it possible to lend these from somewhere nearby if we stay in this homestay?
Hi Reshmi –
“Bring your own gear” means you need to bring snorkel, mask and fins. Life jacket too if you need one. We don’t know of anywhere you could borrow equipment. You can use the Advanced search on the accommodation page to quickly find homestays that have snorkelling gear available.
Four of us (New Zealanders) stayed two nights here – specifically to see Wilson’s bird of paradise. We had arranged this through Martin (who was recommended to us by the tourism office in Sorong). The bird of paradise trip was outstanding. It involved a 4am start and a 90 minute walk in .. but well worth it. Bird guide Frankie was great and we watched the birds from his hide for over an hour (we were about three metres away from the birds). Angelina’s family are wonderful hosts at the homestay and the meals were great. The two-room bungalow over the water afforded great sunsets. The cost per person they charged us was 450 (not the 350 quoted above). We didn’t snorkel here, however there was no obvious reef nearby. Check out the nearby freshwater spring at low tide !
Thanks for the taking the time to write these reviews Simon – it’s much appreciated 🙂
one clarification needed; is the snorkeling gear means bringing snorkel only? because it is tough to carry fin and life-jacket…is it possible to lend these from somewhere nearby if we stay in this homestay?
Hi Reshmi –
“Bring your own gear” means you need to bring snorkel, mask and fins. Life jacket too if you need one. We don’t know of anywhere you could borrow equipment. You can use the Advanced search on the accommodation page to quickly find homestays that have snorkelling gear available.