“[Lapopu] waterfall has become a [popular] destination for both local and foreign tourists who visit Sumba. Nihiwatu resort’s guests frequently visit the waterfall to swim, enjoy the cold surroundings and breathe the fresh air," said Maman Surahman, head of Manupeu Tanah Daru and Laiwangi Wanggameti National Parks (MaTaLaWa).

The parks' staff member Hendro told The Jakarta Post that bathing, swimming and capturing photos of the scenic waterfall were among the most popular tourist activities.

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Lapopu is situated within MaTaLaWa. Maman said that the parks were integrated to allow the management to develop ecological and cultural tourism.

At least three waterfalls can be found in the Manupeu Tanah Daru National Park, namely Lapopu, Laputi and Matayangu. 

In addition to the aforementioned attractions, MaTaLaWa also feature Sumba traditional village, endemic birds and butterflies. Maman said that conservation group BirdLife International had recognized Sumba as an important bird and biodiversity area (IBA).

“We need to promote this uniqueness to attract [more] foreign visitors,” he added. (jes/kes)