Hidden Earth 2018

Paniai Lakes, West Papua – Disappearing Rivers 2018

30 minute Lecture|Mr Peter Talling

Abstract

This talk tells the tale of the first caving expedition to one of the most enticing areas of virgin karst worldwide, with a remarkably high density of disappearing rivers. This high limestone plateau extends for 70 miles along the spine of Indonesian Papua. It includes the highest mountain in Oceania (Puncak Jaya), has rather a lot of rain, and over 2,000 m of depth potential to the south. This 5-person reconnaissance expedition in August and September 2018 will attempt to reach a set of spectacular sinks and resurgences in the Paniai Lakes area. Their main target is a 150 m pitch into a huge resurgence nicknamed ‘The Ganges’, which lies 12 km from where a lake sinks. It remains to be seen whether they can overcome a tense political situation with the Free West Papua Movement and Indonesian military, using their cheeky charm and Ghar Parau postcards, and gain access to any caves whatsoever. But if you never try. At least there is a 4WD road to the coast for them to escape along. The expedition will finish with a search for caves (and gin and tonics) in the Raja Ampat islands to the north of Papua's Bird's Head.