All travelers around the world must have heard about the majesty of Raja Ampat in West Papua. What’s special? This claim has been approved by all the world’s researchers who conducted research in Papua.
Raja Ampat is at the easternmost tip of Indonesia, which means it is right on Indonesia’s rich waterways and right on the border with the Indian Ocean to the south. Those rich waters, remote and isolated for years with a protected environment are pure and wonderful. In these waters, there are many islands, with Raja Ampat’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Raja Ampat meaning ‘The Four Kings’ is an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool; and they are surrounded by about 1500 smaller islands. Raja Ampat offers the world’s best diving experience. This makes it the most diverse living library for the world’s coral reef and underwater biota. About 75% of the world’s species live here! Raja Ampat’s abundance and diversity of marine life and its pristine coral reef systems are enormous.
There is no doubt that there are plenty of diving and snorkeling spots in these vast waters. Among them are the Kabui Passage (a very narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island that was crossed by the famous British explorer, Alfred Russell Wallace in 1860), around Arborek Island Pier, Sawandarek, Yenbuba, Friwen Wall, and many more. As if carefully designed and placed with such fitting aesthetics. The coral islands amidst the clear blue water and clear blue skies of Piaynemo offer some of the most spectacular views on Earth. Looking down from the top of the hill is like seeing God paint his finest art and depict glimpses of heaven.
The Wildlife
This archipelago is home to the Bird of Paradise (cenderawasih). Some of the best-known endemic species are; the Red Bird of Paradise, Wilson Bird of Paradise, and Waigeo Brush Turkey. The Red Bird of Paradise is endemic to the islands of Batanta, Waigeo, and Gam.
How to get there ?
To get to Raja Ampat you must first take a flight from Jakarta or Makassar to Sorong. There is a small plane to take you to Waisai, the district capital of Raja Ampat. Or, you can take a ferry from the port of Sorong to the islands. The ferry trip will take about 2 to 3 hours.
Best time to go
Any time of year is a good time to visit Raja Ampat. The climate and underwater conditions are good all year round. For the calmest waters and best visibility, visit in November, December, January, February, and March.
