Northern Raja Ampat
WEST PAPUA, INDONESIA
This less visited part of Raja Ampat offers incredible snorkeling around sandy, palm-fringed islands and dramatic, jungle-clad limestone peaks. The underwater world here is a vibrant tapestry of colorful fan corals, darting butterflyfish, elegant angelfish, and impressive schools of larger fish rarely seen elsewhere. Protected by a ban on commercial fishing and nurtured by nutrient-rich waters and strong ocean currents, Raja Ampat is a living showcase of marine biodiversity.
This less visited part of Raja Ampat offers incredible snorkeling around sandy, palm-fringed islands and dramatic, jungle-clad limestone peaks. The underwater world here is a vibrant tapestry of colorful fan corals, darting butterflyfish, elegant angelfish, and impressive schools of larger fish rarely seen elsewhere. Protected by a ban on commercial fishing and nurtured by nutrient-rich waters and strong ocean currents, Raja Ampat is a living showcase of marine biodiversity.
Location
Located off the northwest coast of the West Papua region in Indonesia.
Getting There
The main entry point to Raja Ampat is the town of Sorong, which is accessible by flights from Jakarta, Makassar, and Singapore (via Manado). From Sorong, public ferries depart daily, taking approximately 2 hours to reach Waisai on Waigeo Island the gateway to the surrounding islands.
From Waisai, your guesthouse or resort will typically arrange a speedboat transfer to your island accommodation.
Keep in mind that distances within Raja Ampat are vast. For example, a boat trip from Waisai to Wayag in the far north can take 4 to 6 hours one-way, depending on sea conditions and the speed of the boat. Because of this, you may choose to stop in Central Raja Ampat along the way.
Land Adventures
The crown jewel of Northern Raja Ampat are the spectacular Wayag Islands, a small archipelago of steep jungle peaks rising up azure blue waters. Climbing the 300 metre (980 foot) peaks sounds straight forward but add in steep jagged karst cliffs, soaring 30°C (86°F) temperatures, and near-100% humidity, and you are in for a workout. Wear proper shoes, persevere and you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of one of the world’s most stunning seascapes.
Destination Drink
With shops few and far between in Northern Raja Ampat, nothing beats the simple pleasure of cool, filtered water after a full day under the tropical sun.
