best time to travel raja ampat

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Raja Ampat weather

What’s the best time of year to visit Raja Ampat?

• October to April, with best chance of perfect conditions from mid-October to mid-December

Jump to Waisai and Sorong forecasts

Raja Ampat climate statistics are based on long term observations taken at Sorong on the West Papua mainland. The Sorong averages don’t necessarily apply throughout the islands, as many (especially the big 4 of Waigeo, Misool, Salawati and Batanta) have microclimates that vary substantially from that of Sorong. There’s also a surprising variation in local weather conditions. It’s not unusual for example, to spend a beautiful sunny day on Gam, all the while watching stormclouds pour rain onto the Waigeo highlands a few kilometres away on the other side of the bay.

Temperature

Raja Ampat lies on the equator and so enjoys a year-round day length of about twelve hours (~6.30am to 6.30pm) Air temperatures are also reliably constant with a daytime average maximum of 31 o C (89 o F) and a nightly minimum of 25 o C (78 o F) – although it can often feel hotter than that due to the region’s average relative humidity of 83%! The ocean is warm year-round too, having an average surface temperature of 29 o C (84 o F).

Being a tropical environment, there are no days of the year where you can be sure it won’t rain, but there’s far less chance of rainy days during the northwest monsoon between October and April. Although this season sees the least rainfall, Raja Ampat’s heaviest rain usually falls in December and January, leading to those months often being referred to as a second wet season. The southeast monsoon months between May and September deliver the bulk of Raja Ampat’s annual rainfall. June and July are historically the wettest months. Even in the wet season though, it doesn’t rain all day, every day – rainfall is often shortlived and localised. As in the above image, it’s not unusual to find yourself afloat on a calm, sunny ocean while rainstorms pass by on the horizon. Don’t let the fact that it’s rainy season discourage you if you can’t organise your journey any other time – the wet season in Raja Ampat isn’t as dramatic or consistent as that affecting destinations like Bali, Thailand and Malaysia.

Windy Season

The middle of the wet season (Mid-June to mid-September) sees days with strong winds which make sea conditions less pleasant. Again – that’s not every day! Underwater visibility isn’t affected, but choppy seas at this time of year can occasionally limit small boat travel between the islands. Locations on the northern shores of islands are the best protected at this time of year.

So when is the best time of year to visit Raja Ampat?

As far as weather is concerned, any time of year is a good one to visit Raja Ampat. Climate and underwater conditions are good all year round – there isn’t really an “off-season”. Sea travel in smaller boats can be problematic in June, July and August, so if you plan on covering a lot of ocean it would probably be best to pick a different time of year. If you just want to relax in a tropical island paradise and do a bit of snorkelling or diving around your chosen island, then any time is great. For a more detailed look at Raja Ampat climate averages, have a look at this weatherbase page .

Current conditions and weather forecast for Raja Ampat

Detailed weather info for Waisai        Detailed weather info for Sorong

Whether May month is good for visiting Raja Ampat?

May is usually still good, yes!

I see you answered a similar question above, but for something more specific, in August, given the weather conditions, would it be better to stay in North Kri or Piaynemo (or other places more protected by wind/waves). And is snorkelling usually affected too much in that period? Thank you in advance.

August is traditionally the windy season, so yes – choosing a more sheltered location would increase your chances of being able to snorkel every day. Please don’t let what the weather might be doing affect your decisions too much though. Even back in the days of a reliable and predictable windy season, there would still be perfect days in August. Except for when strong storms are passing, snorkelling is always possible, especially from homestay beaches.

Hello, I’m planning to visit Raja Ampat in August, I’ve seen that is during the windy season, I would like to ask if is possible anyway to reach Wajag for a day trip.

Yes, there would be days when it would be possible, but there will also be days where it is not. As long as you have the time to wait out any bad weather, you would be able to get there.

Hi, when would be the best months to visit for birding and bird photography? Planning to visit in 2023.

Mid-October to mid-December usually yields the best weather. Birding is good all year round.

Planning to dive in raja ampat end July/August. Is there a area or island less affected by bad weather in that time?

Not really Elena. Conditions are much the same across all. If diving house reefs, then north shore locations are usually more protected. But it’s not all bad weather at that time of year: Photo below was taken in July. There are often plenty of days like that at that time of year.

Hi there, We are looking to cruise around Raja Ampat (central) in early October next year. We will dive! Is October ok weather for being in the water for 7 days? Thanks

Yes – October is usually good.

We are visiting Raja in mid November 22, is it easy to get from Sorong airport to the ferry thats takes you to the next pick up point for homestays?, taxi? bus? prices? We are staying on Gam what is the likelihood of seeing the bigger fish? rays, dolphins, etc at this time of year? someone said the sea may be full of plankton at this time of year and water visibility is not great?

Please see this page for a detailed description of how to get to your homestay.

Bigger fish, rays and dolphins can be seen all year round. Whether or not there’s a lot of plankton around depends on location, tides and currents, and conditions can vary daily. The good thing about days with lots of plankton is that they also have lots of fish and larger filter feeders like mantas.

I see a few times its been mentioned that for diving, RA is best oct – mid december. What would make that time better than, say Jan-march, which I understand is still supposed to be good?

We don’t know Peter. Depends on a diver’s definition of “best”. Opinions about that vary widely. January to March is definitely good. Mantas are still around and, although conditions vary according to tide, currents and weather, they are generally good at that time of year. Bottom line? You won’t be disappointed, regardless of which time you choose to go.

Planning to visit end of May during Lebaran break. Is the weather good and to have the operational? Any thing to consider during this covid period?

We can’t predict the weather, but May is usually a pretty good time in Raja Ampat. You’ll find the current ferry schedules on this page . Entering Raja Ampat currently requires a negative PCR or rapid test result that is no more than 14 days old. Note that requirements to enter Sorong may differ. Your airline will be able to tell you what those might be.

Do you know if I can do a rapid antigen test/PCR test on Waisai?

Yes, covid tests are available at both the hospital and the pharmacy in Waisai.

Hello! We’re considering RA for winter 2020 and are wondering if you’d recommend we take our own gear. We’ll be coming from Mexico so the journey will be long and arduous without worrying about our checked dive gear. Thoughts, suggestions?

You should definitely take your own dive computers as most places don’t have those available. Taking your BCDs might also be a good idea, as we have read occasional reports of appropriate sizes being unavailable.

You might also want to consider asking this question in a specialist dive forum.

Is it a good idea to visit Raja Ampat during Christmas time, or better do it in January?

Hello Peter

Late December and January are quite similar weather-wise, so go whenever suits you best. Ferry and boat travel on Christmas Day can be difficult sometimes, so it would be best to avoid that.

Hi- I am planning to come with my girlfriend at the end of January/beginning of February. I have two quick questions. What island is the best/central location to stay if we want to see as much of the area as possible? How is the weather at that time of year? cheers, mark

If you want to see as much as possible, then it makes sense to stay at a few different islands, and do a lot of sightseeing on the transfers between them. Plan a route to avoid backtracking as much as possible.

Our step by step guide provides links to all the info you need to plan and book a visit.

We can’t predict the weather, and all we can tell you about it is on the page above.

We were hoping to go to Gam in early December, but the accommodation we hoped for isn’t quite tying in. I’ve heard there can be a lot more rain in January than December. If we could move our dates to January, in the hope of getting the accommodation then, do you think the weather would be similar to December or quite a bit wetter please? Many thanks!

December and January are usually fairly similar Chloe. Go anyway.

Hi STAY RAJA AMPAT! We are couple coming from Spain for diving next September (16th-21st). We are not sure where to stay to visit the “must-see” diving spots as well as Piaynemo (any recommendations?). Is there usually in that season (mid-september) so windy that the diving and the day trips could be cancelled? I would not mind to be at the homestay chilling for one day however we are ansious of enjoying the diving there. Many thanks in advance for your kind help! Regards,

Hi Damien & Rachel

If diving is your priority, then it’s best to stay at accommodation with a dive center . They all dive the most popular sites, and all can take you to Piaynemo. September is usually OK.

Hi, Next week I’ll be in Kri island, from the 13th to the 21th. I was wondering if you knew how the weather will be and if there are a lot of rainstorm. Thanks in advance, FC

Hello Francescoch

The Waisai forecast provided above is a good indicator of what to expect. If you want a current report from someone located on a specific island, then you are welcome to join our facebook travellers’ forum group and ask there.

We are first timers visiting Raja Ampat. We are into snorkelling but mainly photography and videography. What island would you recommend staying at for us?

Thanks kindly

That’s a hard question to answer Emily-Rose!

Suggest you check out what all the islands have to offer , then use the accommodation search filters to find accommodation that match your interests on the islands that appeal to you.

What is the best time of year for scuba diving, with the best visibility and what are we likely to see then? Thank you.

As above Shari: October to April, with best chance of perfect conditions from mid-October to mid-December. That’s also manta season in the Dampier Strait.

Hi, I would like to stay in Raja Ampat from 9-15 July this year. I heard hat some homesteads close during the rainy season, could you tell me on which island? Is there an island where it rains less than the others? Thank you so much for your help Best Stephanie

Hi Stephanie

All of the homestays on Stay Raja Ampat are open all year round. There’s no island that receives less rain than others, and there are still plenty of lovely days in July.

Hi, at first thank your for all the informations. I have a question. I have only time from middle of may to middle of September to go to Raja Ampat. What is the better time for diving. The last two weeks of may or the first two weeks of September. Best regards and thank you for your answer.

To the best of our knowledge, the only difference between those times in regard to diving is that you might see more mantas in September. (Manta season in the Dampier Strait is usually from mid-May to mid-October.)

This is actually wrong! Manta Season is from November (better later than earlier in November) to May. Not from May to October.

Arrgh! It certainly is! What we meant to say was Mid-October to mid-May. Thanks for picking up on that Dennis :)

I would like to verify the temperatures on Batanta island. Is it in comparison colder up there, below 20 degrees Celsius as some reports are showing? Or is it very variabel weatherwise? It’s because I have a group of special Synergos rainbowfish from Batanta swimming in a tank over here in Rotterdam. If they are genetically used to cooler conditions it would make the energy bil a bit lower. But I have to be sure.

We have no idea about the temperatures of fresh water streams and rivers on Batanta, sorry. Air temperatures at sea level in Batanta are about the same as everywhere else, and are fairly stable. The only place we can imagine that air temperatures might fall below 20 degrees celsius is up on the island’s heights at night time.

We looking to be in Raja Ampat in the first two weeks in June. You mention the north side of islands, but can you identify any specific areas/islands/locations that are likely to have the best conditions for snorkeling during that time, especially factoring in weather and wind?

Thank you for your incredibly informative site.

Thanks for the kind words Steve :)

You usually do not need to worry about the weather in early June – just pick the places that interest you most. (If you scroll down these comments, you will eventually come to a photo taken at Batanta in July 2017. The weather was perfect.)

hi there. I’m coming to raja ampat on april, 20. Weather forecasts say it’s gonna rain a lot. Do you think i should reschedule my trip? Thank you

Hello Imeibaby

April/May is usually a good time to be in Raja Ampat. We recommend you ignore the forecasts and go.

(As mentioned in the first paragraph above, unless you are in Sorong, forecasts are fairly meaningless. Weather is extremely localised in Raja Ampat. Rain can – and does – happen at any time of year.)

Hello, We plan a next trip to Batanta in october. I know there is a manta season in january to march, and someone said a jelly fish season in october. Is it right ? Thank you for your help.

Hello Catherine

Manta season in the Dampier Strait (which includes Batanta) is usually from mid-October to mid-May. We don’t know anything about a jellyfish season, sorry.

I’m looking at about 2 weeks in RA starting Sep 27 until 10th Oct. We want to snorkel – Not divers.

My main concern is how rough the seas might be for transfers between homestays. My wife is not good with sea sickness !

I’m not as concerned with Boat trips to snorkelling locations, as these will be booked the night before and we should have an idea of weather conditions,

Thinking of staying 3 nights near biodiversity 3 nights near Beser bay area 3 nights on south side of Kri 3 nights on Biryei

Do any of these locations look like exposed areas for this time of year

thanks Scott

No way to know for sure what this year will bring, but conditions at that time of year would normally be good.

We are planning our trip to visit RA on last days of April. How is humidity and generally weather condition for this period? Any thing to consider?

Nothing in addition to the info above Mansour: Tropical maritime environment, so always quite humid and hot.

I would like to stay at Raja Ampat around August. I would like to chill and snorkel. Is the rainfall that heavy that I cannot do these things? Which month is better, August or September? Will it rain everyday? When I browse online looking for this every website says something different!

Hoping for an answer !:):) Cheers

Hello Floor

The rainfall is not so heavy that you can not snorkel and chill – how does rain interfere with chilling, anyway?? :P

As above – it never rains all day or every day.

Also as above, September is statistically better, but – hey – it’s weather!

Just go. You’ll be fine.

Hi. I’m planning for honeymoon in mid July. Is it the right time to visit Raja Ampat? Secondly, from India how can we reach there?

As above Shobith. V: July is usually windy, but it’s still worth visiting if that is the only time available to you. Here is how to get to Raja Ampat. All the other information you need to plan a visit can be found by reading the information linked from our step by step guide .

Hello, Thinking of visiting Raja Ampat end of March – early April.

Is there a time of year when mosquitoes are more rampant? Hopefully not then :)

We’ve never noticed seasonality as far as mosquito numbers go, Grace. Which doesn’t necessarily mean there isn’t any, of course ;)

Hello, we would like to visit Raja Ampat now from mid December to mid January. We see there is a wet season as well. We wish a holiday full of sun of course. So is it a good time for us now? Which areas should we go to to be able to avoid rain – if possible?

As it says above Kristina – December/January is one of the best times to visit Raja Ampat. Although some heavy showers are possible, it is not the wet season, and it never rains all day, or every day. Don’t worry – just go! :)

I am thinking about coming to Raja Ampat next week (for 2 – 3 weeks possibly). I see that the weather is not good. All the weather websites predict rain. How is the situation over there? As you can imagine, I don’t wanna spend my yearly vacation with only rainy days… Would you recommend coming some other time?

Thank you so much for this site btw. It is really helpful!

Regards Konrad

As it says right at the top of this page Konrad: Now is usually the best time to visit Raja Ampat. This morning is a perfect blue day (in Sorong at least).

Additionally, and as also mentioned above: * Rain is possible at any time of year * It never rains all day, or every day * Weather varies from location to location – forecast can be correct for one place and completely wrong for all others.

Go! You’ll have a great time.

Thank you! I’m going :)

Hello, We will be visiting Misool during the beginning of June in 2019. Can you please tell me if the winds will be very high? What type of animals will we be able to see at this time? thank you so much, A

Hello Arunie

We have said all we can about Raja Ampat weather on the page above. Early June may be calm. We can’t predict the weather – especially not in these days of global warming where seasons everywhere are changing from traditional patterns.

Some species may be migratory, but in the main, you will be able to see the same kind of animals in June as at any other time of year.

Hi – we live in Jakarta and are thinking about visiting Raja Ampat for a week during our Christmas break, which goes from December 15th until January 6th. Would you recommend visiting at the beginning of the break (mid-late December) or the end (early January)?

Also, we are not experienced divers (about 10-12 dives) and we are a bit concerned about current. Is Dec-Jan a good time of year with regards to current, and/or are there more sheltered places where we can dive in the area?

Thanks for your help!

Well – as above – “best chance of perfect conditions from mid-October to mid-December” – so earlier may be better.

Currents are tidal, so time of year doesn’t make a huge difference, but dive centers normally choose dive sites to suit participants’ skill levels. Just be sure to let them know of your experience level and don’t commit to any dive you feel uncomfortable about.

hi, i’m from Brazil and i’m going to Raja from november 16th to 19th, i’d like to know if in Raja you celebrate thanksgiving (holiday) . Thank you so much

Isn’t thanksgiving a uniquely north american holiday? It isn’t celebrated in Raja Ampat.

Hi may i ask if diving is possible in early nov?

Yes – dive centers operate all year. As it says above: ” Climate and underwater conditions are good all year round – there isn’t really an “off-season”.”

hello. i would like to ask something is it ok to visit raja ampat early september 2018?

Hello! I’m wondering if it is ok to visit Raja Ampat on Christmas time. Are ferries operational? What about homestays owners? I mean it is family time and maybe there is less chance to arranfe tours and pick up/drop from Wasai. Thank you

Hi Lauretta

Yes – it’s fine to visit Raja Ampat during Christmas. The ferries have been running over xmas for the last few years. Homestays will always arrange Waisai pickups & dropoffs, but may have family commitments over xmas that won’t allow any other kind of boat trips.

Hello, How to get from Sorong to Labuan Bajo? We want to take a boat tour back from Labuan Bajo to Lombok. I can’t understand how to get to Labuan Bajo from Sorong though. Thank you David

We’re not travel agents David, but we think the easiest way would be via Makassar. There may be a transit or two between Makassar and LB.

is it okay to do liveaboard from sorong to Wayag in the end of august or early september?

It is Jonathan. The Insos Raja Ampat does Wayag trips in August. (From Waisai, though, not Sorong.)

Hi there, Hope you are doing well. Planning to come end of December in Rajat Ampat, even if the conditions are not the best one. Anyway, from Bali, what would you suggest the easiest way to come to Rajat Ampat? And do you think 3-4-5 days is enough if we just want to enjoy 1-2 islands? Which islands would you recommend to have the best “overview”? Thanks for your advise!

December is a great time to visit. Please see our “How to get to Raja Ampat” page and our island guides for more about what each island or island group offers. In our opinion, 3 days in the islands would be the minimum it would be worth going for. We suspect that even if you allowed 5 (not counting getting there and back) that you might still regret having to leave!

It’s really difficult for us to suggest a particular location when we don’t know your budget or interests, but the filters provided on our accommodation page provide an easy way to quickly find homestays that meet the criteria that are important to you. You’re also welcome to reach out to our facebook travellers’ forum members for their suggestions if you want.

Me and my boyfriend are planing to go to Raja Ampat in August. As I red August is not the best time because of the windy season. But still I would like to know which island would you recommend (for 4-5 days) for this time of the year for us to relax and to do some snorkeling (that the currents are not too strong).

Any advice is much appreciated. Thank you!

Tidal currents are strong all year round in Raja Ampat. As above, the most sheltered homestays during the windy season are ones that are sheltered from the southerly winds. Homestays on the north shores of Mansuar and Kri are examples.

We are planning to visit rajaampat in mid July , interested in diving and snorkeling (first time) is that the good time to visit any suggestions

It’s not the best, but (as above) it’s not a bad time Sam. You’ll find answers to the questions most visitors ask linked from our step by step guide .

Hello, First thing – thanks a lot for your perfect webpage and the incredibly useful comments!

We are biologists and would like to visit Raja Ampat (e.g. reasonable selection of different habitats from the such a list, as the isle of Penemu, Arborek Island, island of Batang Pele, Piaynemo Island, Mansuar Isle, Waigeo Island, Batanta Island, Gam Island, Kri Island, Salawati Island…) for snorkelling to explore corals, fish and other species from the sea surface, and biodiversity (mainly birds) observation. Problem is – we would also like to visit (starting from) Alor and Sumba islands… Do you have any idea, how to do it in one month? It seems like, if in the Alor and Sumba the weather is perfect, in our dream place – Raja Ampat – is a nightmare, and vice versa… :(

We are not experienced snorkelers, so, it is important to have calm and shallow waters to snorkel, where is no need to dive-in.

We have the four possible terms: 1) second half of July – second half of August; 2) mid-August to mid-September; 3) September; 4) mid-September to mid-October. Which one you will choose as the first choice, and which will be your second, and which – most stupid one..? Or do you have any recommendations about our crazy wishes…?

Many thanks and good luck! Warmest regards, Vytautas

Hi Vytautas

As far as Raja Ampat goes, your best chance of good conditions would be as late in the year as possible. The closer you get to July and August, the higher the chance of more windy days, so I would choose from your list in reverse order: 4,3,2,1.

The only other suggestion is to perhaps consider organising a 60 day visa prior to coming to Indonesia? 30 days is not very long to cover such a large area and doesn’t allow much for things like delayed/cancelled domestic flights etc.

hallo, my old father ( 70) and me are thinking about going to Raja Ampat for 2-3 weeks. He wants to go birding and do some light snorkeling ( Just house reefs!) . We are thinking about 1 week Misool and 1-2 weeks in the Waigeo area. We have not desided yet when to go, but are thinking about end september- to mid oktober, or january- february. When are the best time to go for us ? I guess there is a difference in the clima on this two areas of Raja Ampat.. ? Micro clima as it is called.. We are NOT going to dive, just some snorkeling, and a lot of jungle walks to search for birds.

Hello Ragnhild

As above, October would be more likely to have consistently better weather, but Jan/Feb is also good. There’s no substantial difference between Misool and the northern parts of Raja Ampat as far as we know.

Hi, is there a tide timetable available for the raja ampat area? It would be good to know what times the tide changes or are in full flow so we can plan our snokelling.

Plenty of those on the internet Cherry. Here’s one !

HI WE ARE THINKING ABOUT COMING AROUND IN AUGUST.IS THERE ANY ISLAND THAT YOU WHPULD SUGGEST MORE THAN ANOTHER.WE ARE ADVANCED DIVER AND WE LIKE THE REAL INDONESIA.WE NORMALLY LIKE TO GO TO PLACES THAT ARE A BIT OUT OF THE NORMAL TOURIST ROUTE. DO YOU THINK THAT TWO WEEKS IT’S ENOUGHT TO HAVE A TASTE OF THE PLACE.WE WILL BE IN INDONESIA FOR ABOUT A MONTH.THANK YOU SO MUCH IN ADVANCE FABRIZIO

Hi Fabrizio

Yes – two weeks is long enough, although once there, you might wish you had longer ;)

If you want to go diving, then Gam , Arborek and Kri are the islands to go to. You’ll find homestays with on-site dive centers here .

Hello! I’m planning my trip to Raja Ampat between late June and early July…. which would you say are the best spot choices to stay considering is not the best season in terms of weather and you have microclimates in certain areas? i’m gonna miss any activity or attraction going by that time?

North shores of islands are the most protected during the windy season Francisco. In recent years the weather has remained quite good through July though – scroll down and you will eventually see a photo from July 2017.

Mantas usually abandon the Dampier Strait area at that time of year, but they can still be found in West Waigeo if they are something you particularly want to see.

First of all, tumbs up for your Homepage and the informations you provide!

Would you recommend staying in Beser Bay or Friwen during the windy season in early July? I have already read that it is best to stay in the northern shore of Mansuar or Kri. But Kri with its water and rat problem isn’t my first choice actually. We will, by the way, be travelling as a family with an 8 year old boy. Are there local children in Beser Bay or Friwen, with whom our child can play and interact with? I think it would be an additional experience next to the snorkeling in the big aquarium of mother nature…. Best regards and many thanks in advance!

Thank you Yustine :)

Either of those locations are well protected in the windy season.

There are a lot more children at Friwen than there are at Beser Bay. (There’s a village at Friwen, but not at Beser Bay.)

Hello, My wife and I are planning a trip for about 2 weeks to Raja Ampat. I have a couple questions; 1. Is there any areas I could legally spear fish or should I just fish as friends while there. 2. What is the local language (I’d like to be able to say at least please and thank you) 3. Where would be an ideal place for sea kayaking beginners? Thanks

1. Fishing of any kind (except local subsistence) is not permitted in the Raja Ampat Marine Protected Areas. Some homestays offer fishing trips (not spearfishing) outside the MPAs.

2. The local language is the areas covered by this website is the Papuan Betew language from Biak, but Bahasa Indonesia is also spoken.

3. Gam Bay would be perfect for sea kayaking beginners.

I am considering a trip to Raja Ampat for scuba diving and perhaps some free diving. I could take some time off around mid March to e/o April. Do you think that could work, or should I look for a destination further south? Could you recommend any liveaboards?

Thanks a lot!

That’s a good time of year to be in Raja Ampat Marco. The liveaboards we recommend are listed here .

Hello, we are planning a trip in Raja Ampat for next november. We are advanced snorkeling people and seeking best places for corals an fishes. We would like to visit 4 different spot, when is possible. Do you have any suggestion ? Thanks a lot, cristiana

Hi cristiana

You probably wouldn’t be disappointed regardless of where you chose to stay, as most homestays have excellent snorkelling at the door, and all provide boat trips to popular sites.

The best snorkelling we’ve seen so far has been at:

The uninhabited small islands (like Ofo/Wofoh) in West Waigeo The reefs at Batanta (great house reefs at Birie’s north coast homestays) Along the south coast of Gam and around Friwen The area beneath and around the jetty at Yenbuba, and between there and the western end of Kri. (Which can be easily accessed from homestays at Kri and Mansuar .)

More about snorkeling here .

hello.. we are coming your way in a week to dive mid January.. do you have any particular recommendations for weather/clothing? is it raining a lot?

As above, it can rain at any time of year and January can see some heavy falls, especially around Waigeo. A raincoat of some kind is a good idea. It’s always warm though!

Hello, First, thank you very much for your website, it is very helpful ! We plan to stay in Raja Ampat one week from 13 July 2018. I read here that because of the wind in that season, it is better to stay on the northern coast of the islands, which are more PROTECTED FROM WINDS. Could you tell us if it is ok (especially for snorkeling, and also diving) to stay on the east coast of Gam (in the area of Biodiversity Resort), or if it is better to stay on the north coast of Kri Island (in the area of Kri Eco Resort) ? Thank you very much for your helpful answer !

Suggest you choose whichever suits you best Claire. If you scroll down through the comments, you’ll see a photo taken in July 2017. The weather is unpredictable of course, but in 2017 there were still plenty of beautiful calm days in July.

Would you recommend travelling with a 4, 7 and 9 year olds to Raja Ampat in August and what would you recommend at that time on year?

Many folks safely visit Raja Ampat with children of those ages, but you do need to watch out for currents when swimming and be aware of the potential health issues .

As above, at that time of year, protected northern shores are usually the most pleasant. Mansuar , Arborek and Kri are a few of the many possibilities.

hello there,

my husband is planning for a fishing trip at misool raja ampat from 9th – 15th Jan. how is the weather there during this period? are the seas safe for fishing? appreciate your help on above. thank you.

As it says above noura: January is usually the best time of year. (And hopefully your husband will be fishing outside Raja Ampat’s Marine Protected Areas where fishing is not allowed!)

We’ll be in raja ampat Dec11-18,17. With the eruption of Mt Agung in Bali, will Raja Ampat be affected? You say that is the time of the North West monsoon, so will the winds be blowing the ash towards Raja Ampat?

Hi Primrose

Raja Ampat is 1900km away from Bali and will not be affected by ash from that volcano, regardless of wind direction.

Hi, i am currently plannjng to visit raja ampat on 26 dec 2017 to 3rd jan 2018, can you please advice the weather condition at that time?

As it says above Andrew, the best chance of perfect conditions are from mid-October to mid-December. We can’t add anything to all the information we’ve already provided above.

Perfect conditions from mid-October to mid-December…are you REALLY sure?

I really wanted to visit Raja Ampat, so I chose November for my holiday…

If you look to waisai/kri/gam area actual weather forecast you can see only rainy days till the 15 of November.

Could you please provide reliable weather informations? Or a reliable weather forecast site?

Not “perfect conditions” Luca. The best chance of perfect conditions. So, yes! We’re really sure.

To recap all the above: It’s a tropical environment. Rain is possible at any time of year. The forecast above is for Waisai. Conditions can be very different in other locations.

Finally, if you look at the actual amount of rainfall predicted instead of the pictures, you’ll see that the maximum rainfall currently forecast for any day between November 6 and 11 is 8mm. That’s not much rain!

Just wanted to say we went to Raja Ampat during the rainy/windy season in August. Initially we were a bit worried about the weather but I have to say it’s been really nice and sunny during the most of our stay there. There have been a couple of times when it rained at night which was ok and one day for a couple of hours in the morning but this allowed us to stay in our homestay, relax and enjoy the rain. After it stopped raining we went around Kri for snorkeling so it didn’t ruin our day. We were lucky that the only day when it was windy was when we were leaving and I have to admit the sea waves were quite scary! But other than that it was all beautiful :)

We are a family and we plan to take a liveboard next July/August, I know it is not the best season, in terms of wind and rains, we are teachers so not any alternative to take holidays ouf of this season, I wonder if it is better begining of July or begining or august according to weather forecast average.

Is it too risky to take a liveboard during this period and what areas are safer and calmer?

I would be grateful receiving any information regarding this issue.

Thanks in advance.

Our experience in past years suggests that earlier in the season is more likely to have calm days than later. We know little about liveaboards, but very much doubt they would operate if there was any risk. For people staying on land, northern shores are the best protected from the prevailing winds.

Thanks a lot for your quick answer.

Hi! We have booked 3 nights at Lumba Lumba from the 20th to 23th of august…as i can see from the weather forecast it says that there will be rain. Can i ask if this means that the situation there is pretty bad? for example there will be problems with the ferry boat?

Hi Francesca

Please read our reply to Marc’s question below – same answer! ;)

Hello. Thanks for all the great information. Like other people who posted before I am a but nervous about the weather. I am supposed to spend 4 days starting tomorrow, probably in Arborek. I understand diving is fine when it rains. But I want also to enjoy the beaches, village stroll, snorkeling. The forecast says there is gonna be rain and storms for the whole next week. Should I postpone ? Actually I had read about the wind season not the rain season and as most informations on Raja Amoat are for divers only, the “it is good all year round” it might not apply to those who want to have a life over water. Thanks for your advice !

You’re welcome Marc :)

If you look at the numbers instead of the graphics, the forecast above actually shows most days having just a millimetre or two of rain, and the strongest forecast wind is a “light breeze”, so it’s hardly rain and storms!

Don’t miss the point too, that the forecast is for Waisai, and conditions at even nearby locations like Gam and Kri can be completely different.

Go! There might be some rain some days, but it would be extremely unlikely that the weather will stop you from doing what you want.

Hello Could you give me tips of Raja ampat journey? Actually I’m now planning to visit Raja ampat in 2018, especiall for snorkeling… My questions are below… 1st, Is it possible to see Manta ray with snorkeling? 2nd, If possible, could you provide me your recommendation places & particular months (season)??

best regards Kohichi

Yes – you can snorkel with mantas. The manta season is October to May and all homestays can organise snorkelling trips to see them. You’ll find all the information you need on the pages linked from our step by step guide .

can you privide me suggestions of 2 weeks in.raja ampat?

we wnt to visit the best of the best not necessarilt everything

middle of august is arrival at sorong.

it wlll be myself my wife and 7 year old boy.

i would like to do 3 dives. my wife and son will snorkel

kind regards sai

As August is the windy season and boat travel can be a little limited, perhaps an itinerary like Kri , Batanta , Arborek and a visit to Piaynemo might suit. Our step by step guide has all the information you need to plan a trip.

Is waisai to manyaifun boat operating well in the next few days? Is it recommended to stay in Manyaifun last week of August ? We are coming for 2 weeks- the second week we’ll be staying in Gam. Thanks for this wonderful informative site. Anat

Thanks Anat :)

Yes to both those questions! (Homestay boats run on request – you’ll need to request a Waisai pickup when you book.)

Hi, I going to Raja Ampat in a few days but I see the weather as rainy the entire day, I know the weather info can be misleading sometimes, can you Please confirm this info or it’s real or not. Thanks

Um – we’re not meteorologists Ronald. We’re not psychic either, so we can’t tell you if the forecast above will prove true or not! :P If it’s any comfort, note that the forecast above is for Waisai. It can rain all day in Waisai and be mainly fine at Kri or Gam.

Sorry, my mistake, I thought you guys were there in raja ampat now, so I thought you could give me first hand info whether the above info was correct or not. Tnx anyway

No problem! Our experience in the past suggests that the Waisai forecasts supplied above have been about as accurate as forecasts anywhere else in the world :)

Hello, Im planning to visit Raja Ampat in september of this year. Is this a good period to go? What´s the best way to get there from Bali?

See above about September. Denpasar-Makassar-Sorong is currently the best way to get to Raja Ampat from Bali.

Could you suggest me some air company that operates in this path (Denpasar-Makassar-Sorong)? How long it usually takes? Its being a bit tough to find this kind of information on internet.

See this page . Please also read all the information linked from our step by step guide .

Hi Rodoldo i also going to raja ampat this mid september from jakarta, transit in Makassar then to sorong. but my boyfriend will go from denpasar. where you gonna stay? hope we can accross there. Cheers

I am thinking of coming to Raja Ampat from 08.05.2017 for 14 day. I would like to ask your opinion is it worth to come in this time, because of rain? Other option is that I go to Komodo, but Raja Ampat seems better for me:) But if there is really a lot of rain and wind then I wont have a lot from Raja Ampat. Thank you for your help.

Hi Jernej –

It’s impossible for us to predict the weather, but we’ve spent weeks in the islands at that time of year on a couple of occasions and had perfect weather. As it says above: The windy season doesn’t usually begin until mid-June and even if it does rain, it’s never all day every day. We think it’s definitely worth going.

Hi. Im planning to visit raja ampat between dec 5-7 this year end…do you have any recommendation for a place or homestay for backpacker who would like to spend his time knowing the native there and enjoy most of the time snorkelling?

Hi Piravin –

All of the places on this page are great for that. You might also want to see our step by step guide .

Hi , We are planing to go to Raja Ampat in July, but it seams to be difficult to find Hotels. Is it because they are all closed because of the weather? Unfortunately it’s the only time we can go as a family. Do you still recommend going? Which part of the Island is better at that time? Thank you,

Hi silvana –

It’s probably difficult because (apart from the couple in Waisai) there are no hotels on any of the Raja Ampat islands. All the accommodation places on this site are open all year round. The north shores of islands are the best protected during the windy season and yes – it’s definitely still worth going if you can’t visit at any other time of year.

I was wondering if you ended up visiting Raja Ampat and if so, what was your experience of the weather? I’m considering visiting next July and while I won’t be deterred by some storms I would hate to miss out on any sunshine

Thanks Niall

July 2017 Niall

Thanks for the reply! Cant wait!

Hi I am planning to be in Kakatua hostel from 25 to 30 , could you recommend a dive shop as i would like to dive and get the best of the place , also what time does the last boat leave from Sorong to waigeo and its cost. is this a good place to stay if you want to snorkel , any recommendations ?

Hi ricardo –

You’ll find dive centers here . Ferry timetables are here . We support Papuan owned accommodation places and all we can tell you about Kakatua is that they are not a member of the Homestay Association. The places we recommend can be found here . Please see our step by step guide for the the answers to the questions most visitors ask.

Hello, we are wanting to visit Raja Ampat for about 3 weeks end of June, into July…I know its not the best season, but we only want to snorkel the reefs. We want to stay on Kri north coast, and hear that it is protected from most of the bad winds, is that true? We do not scuba, so only want to snorkel as much as possible every day, and maybe do some trekking if possible.

Hi francois –

Yes – all north facing shores are the best protected in the windy season. Other locations with excellent snorkelling that are similarly protected include Batanta , Friwen , Mansuar and West Waigeo .

Hi! I am planning a trip from 27 June – 1st July. We wanted to do at least 1-2 dives a day, some snorkelling and possibly trips to Piaynemo, Kri, Melissa Gardens… And were thinking to stay at Arborek. Would you recommend we have a different itinerary based on possible bad weather/winds?

I also wanted to ask, our flight leaves sorong at 14:55 on the 1st. Are we ok to leave Arborek on that same day? Or better to leave before just in case there’s no trips because of bad weather?

No, your itinerary sounds fine. There are still many great days at that time of year. (See the photo above we posted in reply to Niall.)

Assuming that ferry schedules remain unchanged and that it leaves on time, you should be fine taking the morning ferry on the 1st.

Hi Francois I’m Angela and planning to visit raja ampat on 26 june too. May i ask what is your plan maybe we can share cost somehow thankyou!

Looking at rainy forcast, I am quite nervous since I will have scuba trip at Raja Ampat next week. Hope there is no rain during my trip.

See our reply to VeD below Bom. Plus: You can’t expect no rain at any time of year in the tropics!

Is there really no sun for the following weeks :(? Arriving in 6 days and getting a bit nervous only to see a cloudy sky…

Don’t worry VeD – the pictures are deceiving. The forecast rainfall numbers give a much better idea of the probable situation. It’s extremely unlikely that you won’t see the sun if you’re there for longer than a few days.

Also, the above forecast is for Waisai on Waigeo. Being a much larger and higher island, Waigeo receives more rainfall than the other islands. April is usually a nice time to be in Raja Ampat.

We are hoping to snorkel in Raja Ampat (medical problems make diving impossible) but wonder if there will be enough to see. We’ve travelled all over the world to seek out the best snorkeling opportunities, so our standards are Jacques-Cousteau high. The diving certainly looks fantastic, but are there beautiful reefs (live corals) and wide varieties of sea life to see at snorkeling depths? With coral bleaching, crowns of thorns and global warming shallow reefs are dying everywhere. Our preferred depth (in very clear water) is 10-40 feet. Thanks!

Hi David –

Right there on the homepage: Snorkeling . Reefs aren’t dying in Raja Ampat and they begin at the shore. Snorkel with mantas, dugongs, reef sharks and more fish than you’ll have ever seen in one place before. It’s really hard to beat.

David just came back from 10 days kayaking in Raja. We only did snorkelling. FANTASTIC., best coral I have seen, and I live in Cairns.

Hi Susan, where about did you stay? Planning my trip there too.. Thanks

I will be in Raja Ampat next week for 10 days and I am starting to panic that I will get constant rain for the whole time we’ll be there!

Don’t worry Donna – like it says above, it never rains all day every day! Also, check the actual rainfall on that forecast: Anything less than 5mm is nothing more than a passing shower.

phew! thank you!

Hi. We are thinking of going to Raja Ampat in June. I was wondering if it would be best to go the first week of June, middle, or the end of June…or is it all the same and a matter of luck in terms of the weather? Also i have read above that it doesnt rain all day, that its more of ocasional showers but is it usually cloudy and grey all day or do we get to see the sun?

Thanks a lot.

Earlier in June might be better Rita. You will definitelty get to see the sun as long as you’re in the area for at least a day or two.

I am a student in Colorado and I want to find out more about the ecology at Raja Ampat. Could you please help me learn more about the climate, etc here?

Hi Nathan –

Sorry to take so long to respond: We’ve been at islands without internet in Raja Ampat for the last 12 days.

The weatherbase link provided above gives more detailed climate information than is in our brief overview here. If you need more, you could try Birdshead Seascape – they have a wealth of technical information about this part of the world. Perhaps you might find something more detailed there. Best of luck!

Hello, can you kindly advise is 3mm full wetsuit for a week of diving is enough in Feb? I am average on bearing water cold. Many thanks & kind regards

Sorry to take so long to reply Tommy – we’ve just returned to the internet after 12 days with no connection in the islands.

As mentioned above, the water in Raja Ampat is very warm – you certainly won’t need anything more than 3mm!

Hello!! Do you know if the ferry works on 1 January from Waisai to Sorong?

I know this question is not about Raja Amat, but do you know any homestay or guesthouse in Sorong? I think all the hotels are very expensive.

Already answered your ferry question on the page you originally asked it on Clara. We don’t know of any budget accommodation in Sorong.

I’m thinking about going to Raja Ampat again beginning of April – beginning of May. I’ll be staying in Gam but I want to visit Wayag and the Islands further with a normal small carbon boat from Gam. Is that possible during that time? I want to do a lot of snorkelling then. What about the visibility in the sea?

Thanks so much for your answer!

Hi Sara –

We can’t predict the weather of course, but early April would usually be good for both snorkelling and visiting Wayag.

I am planning going to raja ampat next week. I see you comments regarding 1 or 2 mm of rain is just a Passing shower which in totally agree with. I see it is on at 8,9 or even 10 or 11mm. Do you think this amount of rain could have a negative impact if snorkelling?

Hi James –

No. Rain (unless it is very heavy or accompanied by wind) doesn’t really have a negative impact on snorkelling.

In decembre come we for a holiday to Raja Ampat… i make me worry About THE weather… i see only rain rain rain… can You tell me what THE weather is for decembre?

Thank You and greetings

Hi Gertine –

December is usually the best time of year to visit Raja Ampat. It’s impossible for us to predict what the weather will be like though. If you look at the actual amount of rainfall predicted by the above forecasts, you’ll see that it is really very little. A little rain during any 24 hour period is quite normal in the tropics.

I plan my holiday in Raja Ampat next year in october/november. But I watched the weather the last couple of weeks, and it was raining every day this year! So I’m totally unsettled what to do. I’m a snorkeller, I need sunshine for good visibility and also for my well-beeing :-) Is this year particular bad weather or are the weather forecasts wrong?

This homepage is great! Thank you!

best regards, Martina

Hi Martina –

The weather forecasts seem fairly accurate. Look at the numbers, not at the picture ;) 1 to 5 mm of rain is hardly anything! A passing shower. It’s the tropics – there will always be a shower at some stage, but most of the day is fine. Go! You’ll be well :)

ok, I don’t look at the icons anymore ;-) they look like november weather in Germany ;-)

I would like to ask you when is the best time to visit Raja Ampat. Where is the best weather? We plan to visit Raja Ampat on February or March or November 2017, it depends on the weather. Which month is the best for visit?

Thank you very much in advance for your reply

Best regards

Your question’s answered by the bullet point at the top of this page Lucy.

Hi, would like to ask will it be ok if we visit raja ampat on this following date 18 Nov to 21 Novn

Yes – that would be great!

Hi, I am planning to visit Raja Ampat from Singapore on the 10th Oct but the weather forecast is scaring me. Would it be a good time or should I wait for another week or so?

Hi PiYush –

Don’t let graphics indicating nothing more than a few mm of rain and light air scare you – go! Conditions in October are usually good.

Hi. I am am Makassar now and am heading that way next week. I thought we could share some of the trips to save costs on boats?

Hi Piyush, I will be visiting Raja Ampat during the same time. I would like to join you if its ok with you. It would be great to plan the trip together.

Matthew and Jaanu: You might want to also post over on our facebook page to increase your chances of finding travelling companions.

Not quite sure what to expect for the next week. We planned to visit Urai islands etc starting Saturday for 7 days. Should we reschedule? Or how “safe” is the forecasts for RA? Thanks for your comments :)

Go Stephan. We have been in Raja Ampat for the last few days and the weather has been almost exactly as predicted by the above forecast app. It’s good!

As long as it’s good! :) the forecasts don’t look good at all. Well we will give it a try. A short rain shower once a day is no problem. Rain all day would be sad

Hey, Stephan! How was your experience in Raja Ampat last September? Planning to visit RA next September, but not quite sure yet because of the rainy season…

I plan to visit Southern Gam to see the in July or August (no flexibility on these dates sadly – I’m a teacher). I am most interested in snorkeling and macro photography so I picked this location..was it a good choice? From what I read on your website, there are SE winds at this time of year, which would adversely affect Southern Gam. However, I also read that the magrove belt protects the beaches here. My question is, how much protection do the mangroves really offer? Will the waters be calm? how is the visibility? In July/Aug, will i be able to safely snorkel and enjoy the “rich coral reefs that are right at the door and a steep dropoff into the depths is only a few tens of metres from shore.” according to one of the homestays in Southern Gam? Basically, I don’t want to only see magroves but also fantastic corals in the area without the need for a boat trip. Any advice would be much appreciated! Thanks.

You’ll certainly be able to snorkel safely, but it’s impossible to say what conditions and visibility will be like on any particular day. Also, the mangroves lie inside the reef, and so don’t afford them shelter. The north shore of Kri or Mansuar might be a better choice at that time of year.

Hi! Thanks so much for this compilation of information. So useful! I will be in Jayapura for a few days in mid-September and I am considering a getaway to Raja Ampat around those dates. Do you think the rains can be too hard so as to enjoy some scuba-diving there? (about 20m deep).

You’re welcome Lara :)

September’s fine for diving.

Thank you for a great page. We visited Raja Ampat in July two years ago and had a terrific time. Now we are pondering going in January, but we loved the tranquility in July – very few people in the home stays… Do you know when the peak in tourism is? Which weeks should we avoid to avoid fully booked home stays? Best regards

Hi Helena & Joakim – you’re welcome :)

There’s two peak seasons for homestays: August and December/January, but there’s never a time when all homestays are full. (Unless you only consider the most popular ones – and those are busy almost all year round now.) Tranquility can be found at any time of year if you avoid Kri!

Thank you so much for your quick reply. Is all of january peak in tourism or is the peak around new year and Christmas? Else, we might plan our trip to February or so :)

December has been busier than January in the past, but as above – you’ll be able to find a quiet homestay whenever you go.

Hi! We are going 3 weeks to Indonesia, from Spain, in august. We just can go in that dates, and i really have to decide whether to choose going to Raja Ampat or leave it.

Out plan is staying in a homestay, relax and snorkeling/diving, canoying.. but also some trips like going to Wayag.

Honestly, shall we go in August acording to the weather or shall we leave it? We are teachers, so its impossible for us to come in another dates.

Hi Marcos –

We have been asked about June/July/August many times in the comments below and – as we have also said above – those months are fine for snorkelling, diving and sightseeing, especially if staying on the sheltered northern coast of Kri or Mansuar. It is difficult to visit Wayag at that time of year though, as there is a lot of open ocean to cross. Piaynemo provides very similar scenery to Wayag and can usually be reached in August.

Hi, great read. Thanks for the info! Similar to the poster below, I am looking to travel to RA but in June. Does the advice for Kri and Mansuar north still work for this month?

Thanks James :)

Yes, assuming the windy season starts as usual, the same applies. Weather’s changing everywhere though, so you may even find it’s not windy at all. Dead calm here at the moment.

Thanks for all the useful information. I am planning to visit in early July (no flexibility with dates) and am wondering what the best (most protected) place would be? Also, I am interested in snorkelling not diving.

Thanks for your advice :)

Hi Ann –

The north shores of Kri and Mansuar are usually the most protected at that time of year and there’s great snorkelling at both.

For aaditional info.. The weather in Indonesia is unpredictable. And now Indonesia Goverment have more project at Papua, like a building more public facilities. Maybe that can be refrences for traveller.

Hi..weather forecast for March 10 to 14 is cloudy with rain. How windy..wave height?

Nice site. Thanks. I’m traveling to RA next week arriving March 3 for 8 days on a live aboard. Any specific concerns regarding the weather during this time? We are very excited about the eclipse viewing!

Thanks Michele :)

March is usually a good time to visit, so no – no concerns.

Thanks for the article. Helped me understand a lot about the weather situation. I just have one specific question- is June a good month for marine conservation? I assume that we’d be going (taking a boat) into the sea everyday, and covering a lot of surface around the island.

Hi Shaista –

Well – like it says above – June is the beginning of the windy season, so small boat travel can be less comfortable than at other times of the year due to sea conditions. It’s still warm though!

first of all thanks for all the info on this website. Specifically thanks also for the very relevant weather info on this very page.

Here is my specific question:

I am planning an 8 days trip to Raja Ampat on the 16th of May 2016 (flying from Jakarta to Sorong), most probably staying in a homestay on Kri.

Looking up on this page + the comments I understand that the ideal time to visit Raja Ampat is october-april. I also read that June-Sept. is the worst.

So late May seems to be smack in between, and hence I could not find any specific information on the weather at this time of the year. If I look on the link with monthly averages provided on this page, I see that it actually has as much rain as June/July and significantly more than April or even August. So it would seem to be one of the worst month to visit, much more similar to June/July than to April.

Could you confirm/infirm this? Specifically, given that it is very expensive to reach the islands, I would probably not take the trip if there is >50% chance that during 7 days spent there, 3 or more days would be mostly rainy/windy, with poor visibility snorkeling, while staying at the beach would not be very pleasant because of wind and/or rain/drizzle.

Thank you so much for your kind help.

Just to let you know, the alternatives I’m considering would be the Banda Islands (my doubt there would be that it seems that the beach are not great, and that getting there is insanely complex), or Sulawesi (Togian Islands), but my doubt there would be that apprently the reefs are actually mainly dead and destroyed). If you have inputs on these alternative options, they are also very welcome!

Thanks a bunch everyone!!

Cheers Cyril :)

Weather being what it is, it’s impossible to say how many days of rain you might encounter in Raja Ampat in May next year. Bear in mind too, that those rainfall averages are for Sorong, not Raja Ampat. Things are quite different out in the islands. In our experience, May is far from being one of the worst months to visit – it’s quite good in fact! Here’s a photo from May 2014…

Doesn’t look too bad!!

I think what I will do is hold of until a week before (so I can check the local weather report) to close the trip. A couple of additional questions: – at this time of the year, it should be no problem to find accomodation on Kri without previous booking right? I understand May is “low” season in terms of occupancy. – prices of flights from Jakarta to Sorong, even last minute, should not go upwards of US$200 one way? (from what I could research the rate seems totally flat, same price everyday).

Thank you again so much for your invaluable help, my wife and I are really looking forward to being there!!

Hi there, we are travelling to Sorong from 20 Dec to 3 January. We are 2 persons who enjoy snorkeling. We would like to visit Raja Ampat. Would it be a good period to go during these dates? What would the sea current be like? Is it safe to travel in small Boat? Anyone else travelling during this period can also minimise the expenses with us? Hope to hear from you soon

Hi Arlene & Mauro –

Right at the top of this page is says that the best time to visit Raja Ampat is from October to April, so yes – that’s a good time to go.

Tides create strong currents every day of the year, but seas at that time of year are usually calm.

Depending on the boat and operator, small boat travel is safe at that time of year.

You might want to post about your plans over on our facebook page to increase your chances of meeting people to travel with.

Hi Arlene and Mauro,

I’ll be going to Arborek on 30 December, spend the new year’s there and dive, of course. You can contact me if you want to share expenses to Raja Ampat. I’ll be diving and do my advanced diving with a conservation group, Barefoot Conversation, which is based in Arborek. Let me know your thoughts and perhaps I could connect you with them, too.

Cheers, Bene

Hey Everyone! I will be in Raja Ampat from 28 Dec to 9 Jan! I will be staying on Gam Island (28 – 31 Dec), Arborek (31 Dec – 3 Jan) and Kri (3 Jan – 8 Jan).

Bene, I will be on Arborek on 31 Dec – 3 Jan for NYE and diving too! I will be diving with Arborek Dive Shop! I am a solo traveller so if you are looking for a dive buddy or something, feel free to contact me :) I am also planning at trip to Piayamo on 2 Jan if you are interested?

Arlene & Mauro – not sure if your dates match up with mine, but I am happy to share ant boats/transfers :)

My email is [email protected]

Hopefully hear from you guys :)

Regards Samantha

we already arrange about trip to Raja Ampat 14-18Aug 2015 and i stay at Kordiris Homestay GAM ISLAND, how about th weather for this season?its possible go to Wayag?

Hi Luminox –

That question’s been asked a lot in the comments below. August is still the windy season. If you get some calm days it might be possible. If you don’t, Piaynemo is very similar to Wayag. It’s also closer, cheaper and can be reached in August.

We are thinking of going to Raja Ampat from 12th to 16th August but we are worried about the weather conditions. Do sea conditions get difficult if we stay in North Kri and we want to visit Piaynemo? Do homestay offer this trip in August?

Thank you very much, Mireia

Hi Maria – Yes – you’ll be able to visit Piaynemo in August. As we’ve said a few times already in the comments below, conditions begin to moderate in mid-August and besides, even in the windy season there are usually some calm days.

What area is the best to stay in end of January / early February? I’m looking to do some diving.

Hi Kristine –

The windy season is the only time of year that location matters. Anywhere’s good in Jan/Feb.

Hi, My friend and I are headed to Raja Amput from August 7 through the 14th. We are having a tough time finding available accommodation. We would also like to dive but have some concerns about weather. Can anyone give us some suggestions on places to stay that are available in this time frame? Thanks!

Hi Lindsay –

While communication with homestays can be difficult, there are plenty that have accommodation available in August. Using the website booking forms for homestays that have them will make this as easy as possible.

Diving is not a problem in August, but small boat travel can be during the first half of the month. There are lots of good dive sites that remain reachable though. Conditions usually improve after the second week of August.

Homestays on the northern shores of islands (Kri for example) are the best sheltered from inclement weather.

Hope that helps!

Hi, I’m planning to go to one of the homestays from august 22 to 26. I would like to stay in a place with calm waters, maybe in Kri or Gam. I selected some places in the northern part of Kri. Would Gam also be ok regarding weather conditions? Some of my favourite homestays are on the East part of Gam. Thank you very much, this website is very useful! Roberta

Hi Roberta –

The north coast of islands is definitely the best place to be at that time of year if you want calm waters. Winds are usually from the southeast, which means that the southern and eastern facing coasts of Gam are exposed and not as calm. Conditions normally start to ease around the middle of August though, so you might be OK there. Thanks for the thanks – it’s nice to hear the site’s a help :)

Hi Lindsay,

I will be there from August 7th through the 14th also. Try contacting Yengkawe Homestay. I just booked with them and they seem to have availability.

http://www.stayrajaampat.com/accommodation/yengkawe-homestay/

Despite the fact that it says July is the wettest month, we are finding it hard time finding accommodation for 11-16 July 2015.

Lots of folks from the northern hemisphere on holidays in July Wes, but there’s still plenty of rooms available unless you only want to stay at the most popular homestays.

Hi, We’re going to Raja Ampat on 8-15june next month. Any chance of great weather or bad sea storm? Thanks in advance.

Hi Linda & Mich –

Like it says above, June sees the beginning of the windy season, but there are still nice days and snorkelling/diving is good all year round. Bad storms are unlikely that early in the season.

Hello there, during july & august ( we only can come to R4 in this period ) it seems that North Waigeo area is best for less windy conditions on the sea . Is this true ? We were told that some areas around Fam Islands also are hidden for choppy seas, and therefore ok during these months for snorkeling. correct ? Would ‘Prajas homestay’ be a good place to stay, while Aljui Bay is somewhat protected against strong open sea currents & winds ? Or maybe you know better protected corners in this season? Thanks for some feedback…..

Hi Luc & Els –

Prajas Homestay and Aljui Bay are indeed well protected (Aljui is almost always calm), but it’s not necessary to go that far unless you have a particular interest in the area. It’s really only exposed southern shores and open water where conditions might sometimes preclude snorkelling. The north shore of any island will be sheltered at that time of year and will provide good snorkelling.

….and one more question : what place did you recomand do stay, where we will find a real Paradise for relaxing and laid back!

We travel around the world the last 30 month, this time is blocked for staying at the beautifullest place in the region!

Recommend you check out the choices available on our accommodation page . See the pictures and read the guest comments. You can also use the Advanced Search feature on that page to choose the features that are important to you and see a list of homestays that match them.

me and my wife want to come to the region from beginning april to the mid of april. could you please recommand me, if it is a god idea because of the weather during that period?

I read that there will be some thunderstorms and heavy rain.

what do you think, should i come?

thanks for your response,

mark and simone

Hi Mark – your question is answered at the top of this page :

“What’s the best time of year to visit Raja Ampat? October to April…”

We have visited in April. we think you should go!

Hi, I plan to to go to raja ampat on jan 22 2015 for 5 nights, so what is the weather forecast on those days? Thanks

Hi Dina – The weather then will be pretty much the same as shown in the above 5 day forecast. Click either of the “Detailed weather weather info for…” links for more information including slightly longer term forecasts.

Hi, just few line to thanks Stay raja ampat webside … Realy very usefull .. We just back from Mansuar with our two kids ,and we get 12 fatastics days … Incredible place ; very nice people … Only problems , boat trips realy overprices , and oil prices is not only responsible for this ! …. But maybe this is the price to touch paradise !! Best regards Nico

Thanks Nico – it’s always good to hear that the site’s helpful :)

Boat trips are indeed very expensive – and your feedback will be passed on. Thanks for taking the time to provide it too – it really will help to make a difference!

Cheers from the SRA team

I want to go to raja ampat from 18 may until 30 may can you tell me how the weather is like that period

As described above Simon. Raja Ampat has an equatorial monsoon climate. With the exception of the windy season (June to Sept) it’s pretty much the same all year round: Hot, light winds, chance of rain.

SOS, Is it raining these days in raja ampat? we want to know what the weather will be like around the 10-13 of september to programme our visit, thank you!

Full weather information including links to detailed further info is on the page above. The weather when you go would be almost identical to what you see in the forecasts just above these comments :-)

Hi! I’m going to raja ampat in 29 july – 6 august,just wanna know what kind of clothes should I prepare regarding to the weather..is it hotter than Bali?thanks

Hi Angel – you can see forecast daily temperatures for the next five days on the page above. About the same as Bali at this time of year.

Hi ! I am planning a liveaboard trip to Raja Ampat in late September. I learn from your website about the best time of visit starting from mid October. Would it be a risk for me to meet windy condition during my stay in 25 Sept – 2 Oct as I will sleep on board ?

Impossible to say for sure Ceci, but usually the winds have dropped by then.

Thanks for your prompt reply. I would change my schedule to mid-Oct to play safe.

Hi! We’re thinking about going to Raja Ampat in July. Is there a risk that it might be problems to go from Sorong to the islands then? We wouldn’t want to get stuck too long during our vacation. As we understand it, the snorkelling will probably be fine anyway? Thanks

Hi Helena – Although small boat travel on exposed waters can sometimes be limited in the windy season, we’ve never heard of the Sorong-Waisai ferries not running because of bad weather. And yes – the snorkelling will be good, regardless. Go! You’ll be fine :)

Thank you for your quick reply! What about the boats to southern Gam from Waisai? Could we book accommodation in advance or is there a risk we might not be able to leave Waisai for some time? If we don’t book in advance, is there a risk that most home stays are occupied then? Also I wonder about mosquitos; are there more during the rainy season or is it about the same all year round? Thank you!

There’s no chance that all homestays will be full, but if you want to stay at one of the more popular ones you’d be wise to book in advance. It’s also extremely unlikely that you’ll get stuck in Waisai. You might have to spend a night there (or in one of the nearby homestays), but even in the windy season mornings are often calm – it’s never windy all day, every day! Not sure about seasonal mosquito population variation. With the exception of Waisai itself, there have been surprisingly few mosquitoes everywhere we’ve stayed in Raja Ampat.

Hello , I leaving in Bali and planning a trip to raja ampat mid. Feb. what is the weather like? Rain, wind situation are similar to Bali or drier?

Hi Cris. Raja Ampat’s climate is different to that of Bali. You can see a detailed forecast for the first week of February right above these comments. It doesn’t look as wet as Bali is as the moment! A full history of average conditions is also linked above. See http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weatherall.php3?s=20579&units=

Hi. I was just wondering if there is a peak tourist time? We are looking to visit in July and although the weather may not be great, it coincides with peak tourist season. We really want to get away from it all! thanks

Hi Nikki – We’re told the quietest months are usually April & May, and August, September & October. Raja Ampat tourist numbers are not high though, and you should be able to find a place to yourselves at any time of year. You might want to choose one of the more isolated homestays from the map at http://goo.gl/maps/9DRnU – you can go straight to any homestay that interests you by clicking its marker and following the link that opens.

Thanks so much! Getting very excited to plan the trip!

just checking if this weather is normal this time of year,thought it was the drier season

We’re told that mid-October to mid-December’s the best time of year to visit and that rain in December and January is normal tombali.

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Raja Ampat: A Travel Guide To Indonesia’s Secret Paradise

This Raja Ampat travel guide will help you plan your trip, showing you how to get there, the best activities on offer and plenty more tips to make your adventure stress free!

Raja Ampat in Indonesia is home to some of the most beautiful islands on the planet. There’s spectacular snorkelling and diving, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Isn’t it time you explored this secret corner of paradise?

Raja Ampat isn’t like anywhere else on the planet. Well, not that I’ve been to yet anyway. It’s raw, rugged and the closest thing to paradise that I’ve found.

Above the ground exotic birds call to each other, gigantic colourful butterflies flutter by, and hermit crabs dance along the sand.

Below sea level majestic lion fish prowl through the waters past tropical fish, purple pufferfish, turtles, dolphins and sharks.

These Indonesian waters are the most biodiverse in the world, and if you pop your head under for a moment you’ll be amazed at what you find.

Along with stunning landscapes, incredible snorkelling, diving and endless sunshine, there’s a heart and soul to this region of Indonesia. The people. The people with smiles on their faces. People who have no doubt been through some serious hardships given the tricky political situation in West Papua.

But they were open, welcoming, and made our experience extra special.

So forget Bali and the Gili Islands, let’s go on an adventure to Indonesia’s secret paradise… Raja Ampat. 

Where Is Raja Ampat?

Raja Ampat is an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands located off the coast of West Papua, north-east of Java and Bali. Click around this Raja Ampat map to get your bearings!

How To Travel To Raja Ampat? 

The journey isn’t simple, so you do have to work for your paradise adventure! While I can’t guarantee this Raja Ampat travel blog will be 100% up to date with information for the area in the archipelago that you’re trying to reach, hopefully it will give you some pointers.

• From Jakarta, fly to Sorong (4 hour 5 mins). Some flights will go via Makassar.
• From Sorong, take a taxi to the harbour (15 mins).
• Once at the harbour take the Bahari Express ferry to Waisai, which is located on the island of Waigeo. The express ferry takes 2 hours.
• From there you’ll need to arrange a taxi boat with your Raja Ampat accommodation. Most home stays and hotels will organise your transfers.

Things To Do In Raja Ampat

Diving and snorkelling in raja ampat.

The diving and snorkelling in Raja Ampat is said to be among the best in the world with over 1,400 species of fish enjoying its reef. It’s often top of peoples scuba bucket lists ! 

While staying at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge  I snorkelled from the end of the pier and saw a plethora of tropical fish including angelfish, needlefish, several lionfish, batfish, and even a purple pufferfish. In the evenings we spotted walking sharks close to the shore. The coral was beautiful too.

Also in the incredibly diverse waters are bluefin jacks, manta rays, grey reef sharks, blacktips and whitetips along with the elusive wobbegong – a type of shark that’s only found in this region. The Raja Ampat diving is truly off the scale!

After a long day in the water, there’s no better way to unwind than by watching one of Raja Ampat’s incredible sunsets.

Visiting Islands In Raja Ampat

A visit to Arborek really is a must! The island is open to tourism with kids greeting visitors with traditional dances and a tour of the village. It’s a tiny place with around 200 residents, a school, church, a few home stays and basic stores.

It’s a picture-perfect paradise island with no cars, a few colourful boats, and bright yellow and blue fencing. I fell a little bit in love! People have asked me “is Raja Ampat safe?” While I would never say anywhere in the world is 100% safe, people live a quiet life on these islands and there’s very little to stress about. I definitely felt safe during my trip. It’s hard to know how I would have felt if I’d been a solo female traveller in Raja Ampat. 

Visit Piaynemo – Stunning Small Islands In Raja Ampat

When you’re planning your Raja Ampat itinerary, you just have to visit Piaynemo. This is the most famous view of the archiplago. I’d seen photos before visiting and assumed they must have been photoshopped… but no. It really was as magical as I’d hoped! From our hotel it was around 30 minutes by boat, then a hot and sweaty trek up to the viewpoint.

We couldn’t wait to dive into the greeny-turquoise water after to cool down!

This really was a highlight of my time in Raja Ampat.

Kayaking In Raja Ampat

Many hotels have kayaks you can rent out. It’s a great wait to cruise along the coastline of the islands, but be wary of strong currents.

Where To Stay In Raja Ampat

I stayed at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge which was wonderful! The small wooden bungalows on the beachfront were cute, cosy and located seconds from the sand. The restaurant served a decent buffet breakfast and even cooked up a BBQ one evening! There was AC, wifi (although slow, come on, you’re in paradise!) and snorkel gear and kayaks for rent.

When To Visit Raja Ampat

The best time to visit Raja Ampat is between October and April, with the best conditions towards the end of the year. It’s pretty much bang on the equator with average highs of 31 Celsius and lows of 25. June and July are the wettest months, but in tropical paradise you get used to seeing storm clouds most days. Thankfully they pass pretty quickly!

How Much Does It Cost To Visit Raja Ampat?  

Prices will vary, but here’s a rough guide:

• Return flights from Jakarta to Sorong: £200. Taxi from Sorong Airport to Sorong Harbour: IDR 100,000 (£6.20)
• Raja Ampat visitor permit fee for international visitors: IDR 1,000,000 (£62.64).
• Express ferry tickets: IDR 130,000 (£8.14) for economy class or IDR 220,000 (£13.78) for a VIP ticket.
• Total travel costs (excluding food & extra activities): £282.62 ($353 USD or IDR 4,622,228)

F.Y.I. One night at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge on Mansuar Island costs £239 for a double room. They offer plenty of packages which include dives. Find out more here .

Useful Information For Visiting Raja Ampat

As the islands are pretty cut off, it’s important to organise currency before you take the trip. Some hotels will accept credit cards but it’s not something to rely on.

Cover up. It’s important to show respect when visiting villages and you’ll see signs reminding you not to wander around in bikinis.

I read that Sunday is considered family day for a lot of people (for religious reasons) so avoid this for travelling or taking part in activities.  

Remember, Raja Ampat isn’t a tourist destination like Bali, so expect the experience to be a little more rough and ready! It’s all part of the adventure…

I hope this Raja Ampat blog helps you plan your trip. Huge thanks to the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism for inviting me on the #TripOfWonders as part of their #WonderfulIndonesia campaign. As always, opinions are my own! 

Looking for other places to visit in Indonesia? Check out my Bali travel blogs , which are packed full of information, hotel recommendations, tips for things to do and plenty more advice for your trip.. 

Enjoyed this post? Why not pin it…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

18 thoughts on “Raja Ampat: A Travel Guide To Indonesia’s Secret Paradise”

Chloe! Love your story! Thanks for sharing. I really love this area of the world.

Thanks Victor – it really was a magical part of the world to visit 🙂

Oh my god, it really does look like paradise! I wish I had known about it before my Indonesia trip earlier in the year! Looks like you had a blast x

It looks like you had an amazing trip too but yes, Raja Ampat really was incredible! I’d love to see how it develops over time. Fingers crossed it’ll stay reasonably untouched. So stunning!

you should visit spot called balbulol and dafalen when in raja ampat. also there is jellyfish lake, on some of the island there is human bone up there.. and also there is weird unique small rock formation idk the name of the spot tho.

Thanks for the tips! I’d love to return but sadly I think it’s many years off! Such a magical part of the world.

any idea where we can rent sea kayaks to explore on our own. thanks

Hi Shaun, most hotels will have them available for rent. They had them at our hotel – Raja Ampat Dive Lodge. Thanks

Hello! We are hoping to make this trip later this year, any must-see’s? Did you need any vaccinations? Also do we need to know any of the language or do the locals mostly speak English?

Hi Millie! Lovely to hear from you! I got my rabies boosters done as I wasn’t up to date on those but I’d already had quite a few vaccines before. Some people didn’t bother so I don’t know how high the risk is right now – definitely worth checking the World Health Org site to make sure you’re happy. Some people working in the hotels and tourism industry speak bits of English but on the islands there were local dialects. It’s always good to get a few words in the local lingo I find – hello / goodbye / thanks will get you far! Have an amazing time – Piaynemo is my must-see. But it’s so beautiful and untouched generally, you’ll love it!

This look so beautiful! I am going to put this on my bucket list for Indonesia next time I go! Beautiful photos and great tips!

Thanks for your comment Aaren – I loved it there!

So I’m going by myself in December and I was wondering as a female what is covering up actually mean? Are shorts and a tank top considered not covering up?

Hi Kim, you should be fine dressed like that. It’s more about not wearing swimwear around the islands with the locals.

wow, this is absolutely amazing, it really makes me put Raja Ampat as my top destination for next year! I have a friend who recently went diving there, she absolutely loved Cape Kri, said it was the experience of a lifetime. I so want to get there myself and explore everything!!!!

It’s SUCH an incredible place Serena! Hope you make it there soon!

Hi what time of the year did you go to get all those beautiful days of sunshine? Me and my boyfriend are going in 3 weeks until June 7 and I’m wondering if we risk getting rain/wind every day! :/ Beautiful blog

Hi Sarah, Hope you’re well! Raja Ampat is SOOO amazing! You’re going to love it. It’s one of the top places I’ve ever travelled to. We were there in October time, but I think they get a lot of sunshine all year around. Also, when it rains, it’s often only one big downpour and then it brightens up again. Fingers crossed it’s nice for you!

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Your ultimate guide to Indonesia's Raja Ampat

Sep 26, 2022 • 8 min read

Here's what you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Raja Ampat, Indonesia's biodiversity hot spot © zaferkizilkaya / Shutterstock

The 1500 islands, cays and shoals that make up Raja Ampat lie on prime real estate at the heart of the Coral Triangle, a biodiversity hot spot where the Pacific and Indian Oceans collide.

Likened to the “Amazon of the seas,” this tropical labyrinth holds one of the world’s highest densities of marine life with over 1000 species of fish and three-fourths of all known corals. Divers and snorkelers alike dip into the aquamarine waters here in search of wildly-patterned carpet sharks, massive manta rays and pygmy seahorses. Up above, they find bungalows perched over the ocean and palms curving toward pearly beaches devoid of any footprints.

Each of the main islands – or “Four Kings” as they’re known – hides its own wonders, including mesmerizing mushroom-shaped outcrops, placid turquoise lagoons and misty hills where flamboyantly-feathered fowl parade across the canopy in search of a mate. To visit now is to experience a virgin paradise on the verge of discovery. 

Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Indonesia 's Raja Ampat.

Waigeo is home to the region's small capital

If sleepy Raja Ampat has any whiff of a buzz, you’ll find it on Waigeo or its satellite islands Gam, Kri and Arborek. Home to the region’s diminutive capital, Waisai, this is the most logical base from which to plan journeys further afield. Waigeo is the place where British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace based himself in 1860 while studying the birds-of-paradise, a group of 44 lavishly attired birds only found around New Guinea and north-eastern Australia. Research in the jungles here played a pivotal role in his landmark theory of evolution through natural selection, which was published jointly with the more famous Charles Darwin. You can find Wallace’s subjects fluttering about in the hills on the island’s southern edge, as well as on neighboring Gam.

Misool is the most isolated of the "Four Kings"

Misool is the most visually arresting of the four main islands. It’s also the most isolated at the southern end of the archipelago. Its southeastern edge is a veritable fortress of towering karst formations that rise out of the sea like shards of green glass. Many of these formations hide secluded lagoons that are perfect for snorkeling or kayaking. Yet, the main draw here is scuba diving in the crystalline waters of the 300,000-acre (1220 sq km) Misool Marine Reserve , established in 2005. The island also features pearl farms, caves, prehistoric rock art and two lakes where you can swim with thousands of (harmless) golden jellyfish. 

Salawati and Batanta are the least visited of the "Four Kings"

Despite being closest to mainland New Guinea, Salawati and Batanta are the least visited of the “Four Kings.” Salawati is an untouched island that lies directly across the Sele Strait from the Bird's Head Peninsula. It has little in the way of tourist attractions or infrastructure. Batanta is a long, thin island just north of it that’s home to a few tiny fishing villages. You’ll also find a handful of homestays and dive resorts along Batanta’s northern edge, as well as on the smaller satellite islands just off the coast. 

What to do in Raja Ampat

Dive (or snorkel) in misool’s protected waters.

Divers from around the world flock to Raja Ampat’s clear waters to spot soaring manta rays, giant clams, iridescent parrotfish, rare dugongs and swarming schools of yellowback fusiliers. Its unspoiled reefs are home to more than ten times the number of hard coral species found in the Caribbean. In the protected waters of the Misool Marine Reserve, you can find blue staghorns, orange sea whips and chunky brain corals, among countless others. The reserve’s disparate dive sites are best visited from a liveaboard boat or a Misool-area dive resort.

Hike to the birds-of-paradise

Walk in Wallace’s footsteps in search of the aptly named birds-of-paradise, whose elaborate courtship dances were a highlight of the BBC's original Planet Earth series. The southern coasts of Waigeo and Gam offer the best chance for sightings, with forests that harbor two species. The larger red bird-of-paradise has crimson wings, emerald cheeks, yellow shoulder tufts and wispy purple tail feathers, while the smaller Wilson's bird-of-paradise has a startling cyan cap, a red-and-black body, blue feet and tail feathers shaped like a scissor handle. Local guides run tours to see the birds along private-access trails that often begin behind their homes. Accommodation providers can arrange trips, which typically involve a pre-dawn hike up to a crude viewing blind near a popular mating area.

Visit Arborek Village

Tiny Arborek Village (population around 200) offers a glimpse of more traditional Papuan culture, with elders who still make a living weaving and children who have revived Papuan dancing. The people who live in Arborek (an island just off the coast of Waigeo) migrated here from the hills of the mainland in the 1930s, and their dances tell the story of the transition from being hunters to fishers. Meanwhile their woven crafts – made from the dried leaves of the pandanus tree and local dyes – often take the shape of manta rays and other sea creatures found in the nearby waters. You can frequently spot kids rehearsing dances in front of the town church, while crafts are sold directly from the homes of weavers.

Climb Pianemo Hill

Want that classic Raja Ampat shot with pincushions of bush-clad rock floating in the turquoise sea? You’ll need to climb to the top of Pianemo Hill , a hunk of honeycombed karst in the Fam Islands group (between Batanta and Waigeo) that’s covered in spindly pandanus and gum trees. Some 250 wooden steps lead through the dense vegetation up to a platform at the top, where the five points of a star-shaped lagoon come into view. Two overlooks nearby jut out over the edge for picture-perfect panoramas. You can find similar views 30km (19 miles) beyond Waigeo at Wayag , a remote collection of atolls often featured in promotional materials.

Where to stay in Raja Ampat

The quality of homestays varies.

The cheapest and most authentic way to sleep in Raja Ampat is to book a village "homestay." The name is a bit deceiving; you won’t actually sleep in anyone’s home, but rather in a bungalow nearby. Stay Raja Ampat  is like the Airbnb of family-owned budget options, giving an online presence to rural accommodation providers. Most homestays come with full board, though hospitality standards and quality vary widely. Recommended options include Kordiris Homestay and Corepen Homestay on Gam Island, as well as the more remote Mandemor Homestay on Batanta.

Dive resorts range from comfortable to luxurious

Dive resorts were the first to put Raja Ampat on the map, and they remain the most comfortable – often downright luxurious – options around. Some have overwater bungalows and beach bars; others spas and farm-to-table restaurants. The best properties, such as Misool Eco Resort and MahaRaja Eco Dive Lodge , have been instrumental in safeguarding some of the most biodiverse reefs on earth through conservation initiatives and community empowerment.

Liveaboard boats are ideal if you want to explore the archipelago

Resorts and homestays typically tie you to one island, but if you want to tour the entire archipelago, there’s really no substitute for a liveaboard boat. Several Indonesian cruises include quick stops in Raja Ampat, but to spend more time here, you’ll want to book an option departing from Sorong. Most ships run five- to 11-day itineraries with a focus either on diving or land excursions. Others, such as SeaTrek , invite experts onboard for themed trips in search of whale sharks or the elusive birds-of-paradise. In general, rates for liveaboards start at around $140 per day, all-inclusive.

Getting to Raja Ampat and around

Raja Ampat lies off the west coast of the world’s second-largest island, New Guinea, which is shared between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea . Most visitors arrive by plane at Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong , which lies in Indonesia’s West Papua province and receives regular flights from Jakarta . Daily ferries depart from Sorong’s harbor to Waigeo, while twice-weekly ferries head to Misool. Chartered speedboats are available at the harbor for more direct trips to your accommodation.

Local carrier Susi Air flies light planes (with a 10kg/22lb baggage allowance) from Sorong out to Marinda Airport in Waisai (Waigeo), the only airport in the archipelago.

All visitors will transit Raja Ampat Marine Park and must pay the Environmental Services Fee (700,000 rupiah). Visitors to select tourist sites will have to pay an additional 300,000 rupiah for the Raja Ampat Visitor Entry Ticket, introduced in 2019. 

When to go to Raja Ampat

There’s no bad time to go to Raja Ampat, which lies on the equator and enjoys relatively consistent temperatures of between 31ºC (89ºF) and 25ºC (78ºF). June, July and August are historically the wettest months, but the monsoon seasons here are not as dramatic as elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Rainfall is often short-lived and localized. Higher winds between mid-June and mid-September can make the typically calm seas turn choppy. During this time, diving outfits may close and inter-island travel can become temporarily suspended.

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Raja Ampat , Useful Information · April 2, 2024

The Best Time to Visit Raja Ampat – A Season Guide

Embarking on a journey to the tropical paradise of Raja Ampat? Join me as we navigate the ideal time to explore this stunning archipelago. From turquoise waters to vibrant coral reefs, including both hard & soft corals, Raja Ampat is a haven of natural beauty waiting to be discovered. In this blog post, we’ll uncover the magic of Raja Ampat’s seasons, providing insights into the best season to visit and what to expect during your adventure in West Papua. Let’s discover the best time to visit Raja Ampat together!

Disclaimer: the focus of this blog is mostly on when it’s the best time to visit Raja Ampat based on the most favourable weather conditions for you snorkelling & dive trip. Please note that if you are a bird lover, mating season for the birds of paradise has a specific time of the year, namely from June till November.  

The Best Time to Visit: When Magic Meets Ideal Weather

Ready for an unforgettable experience in Raja Ampat? The prime time to visit typically spans from October to April, offering travelers blissful days filled with sunshine and calm seas. This period presents an ideal opportunity to delve into the underwater wonderland and witness the enchanting Manta season. The water temperature is 28-30 degrees celsius all year around by the way.

Embracing Manta Season: Dancing with the Gentle Giants

​ During the dry season, which extends from October to April, Raja Ampat transforms into a sanctuary for Manta enthusiasts. The presence of plankton in the water attracts these majestic creatures, providing remarkable opportunities for encounters. While occasional reduced visibility may occur due to plankton blooms, swimming alongside Manta rays promises an unforgettable experience. Famous Mata points (because of the presence of the so-called ‘cleaning stations’) are Manta Ridge close to Arborek and Dayan at Batante.

Good Weather Expectations: Mother Nature’s Finest Display

​ Imagine pleasant temperatures ranging from 28 to 32 degrees Celsius (82 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit) gracing Raja Ampat during the dry season. This period showcases Mother Nature’s finest, with clear skies and gentle breezes inviting exploration of the archipelago’s stunning landscapes and pristine beaches. Beneath the surface, vibrant colors and thriving marine life, such as the pygmy seahorse & hundreds of species of fish await discovery.

May to July: Transitioning to “Rain Season”

Transitioning from the dry season to the rainy season, spanning from May to July, brings a gentle sprinkle of rain and lush greenery to Raja Ampat. While underwater visibility may be slightly affected, this time offers a unique opportunity to witness the archipelago’s natural beauty in transition. With fewer visitors, explorers can immerse themselves in the enchanting landscapes both above and below the water’s surface. A note from me to you: you can’t compare the “Rain Season” here with the rainy season in Bali for example. There will be rain showers, but these only last (on average) for 1 or 2 hours.

Windy Season Caution: August and September

As August and September usher in the wind season, caution is advised for travelers considering a visit to Raja Ampat. Strong southerly winds create choppy seas, making conditions unpredictable and potentially hazardous for water activities. Raja Ampat liveaboards are scarce during this period, highlighting the challenges posed by the prevailing winds. Let me tell you: if you are easily sick on a boat, you want to skip August & September due to the rough seas. 

Conclusion: As your trusted travel companion, I’ve guided you through the seasonal changes of Raja Ampat, revealing the optimal time to experience its wonders. From October to April, embrace sunny skies and Manta encounters, while May to July offers a transition of beauty amidst occasional rainfall, but with general better visibility. Exercise caution during the wind season in August and September, prioritizing safety when planning your visit. Regardless of the season, Raja Ampat promises unforgettable moments and unparalleled natural beauty. Are you ready to embark on this personal journey of discovery? Let Raja Ampat cast its spell and ignite your sense of adventure.

Hi, I’m NONA HOLLAND, and I’ve been living on Kri Island in Central Raja Ampat since May 2023. Here I explain how I ended up living on a remote island btw 😉 With my blog, I share about my life in a remote area, and all the information you need to know about ‘the last paradise’. I also share my adventures from other parts of Indonesia.  

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The Best Time to Visit Raja Ampat, Indonesia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Raja Ampat for ideal weather are

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Raja Ampat Travel Info

Weather in raja ampat.

Average temperatures in Raja Ampat vary barely at all. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot all year with a chance of rain throughout most of the year. The area is far less temperate than some — in the bottom 1 percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Raja Ampat, the hottest months are January, March, and then April. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early March where highs are regularly around 89.5°F (31.9°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 75.5°F (24.2°C) at night.

Raja Ampat Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Raja ampat temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Raja Ampat Perceived Temperature (F)

Raja ampat perceived temperature (c), average raja ampat temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Raja Ampat are January, February, and then September. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late September. For example, on the week of September 24th there is 1 day of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid August with an average of 4 days of significant precipitation the week of August 13th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Raja Ampat.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Raja Ampat (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Raja Ampat has some extremely humid months, and high humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is March (78.8% relative humidity), and the most humid month is August (84.6%).

Wind in Raja Ampat is usually extremely calm . The windiest month is August, followed by July and September. August’s average wind speed of around 3.9 knots (4.5 MPH or 7.3 KPH) is considered “light air.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid September where average top sustained speeds reach 9.7 knots, which is considered a gentle breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Raja Ampat.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to raja ampat.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Indonesia; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 14, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Raja Ampat, Indonesia is July, followed by December and March. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Raja Ampat in October. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall raja ampat travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 89.1°F (31.7°C) and 87.9°F (31.1°C) with similar temperatures in the later months. Rain is very common with 10 to 11 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is fairly slow for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 14 to 16 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Raja Ampat, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 89.5°F (31.9°C) and 86.5°F (30.3°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a good amount: 9 to 11 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Raja Ampat to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 89.2°F (31.8°C) and 87.6°F (30.9°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 7 to 10 times per month. These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Indonesia › Raja Ampat, Indonesia

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It's the pristine waters and the incredible biodiversity of Raja Ampat islands that lure the greatest number of travellers to Papua, who come for the outstanding diving. Even non-divers will find many reasons to visit Raja Ampat, as kayaking, birdwatching and other adventure programmes are developed. Although there are more than 1,500 small atolls in Raja Ampat group, there are four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati and Misool. Raja Ampat (‘Four Kings’) gained notoriety when scientific data seeped out that the area may very well be the epicentre of oceanic biodiversity.

Travel tips for visiting Raja Ampat

Best things to do in raja ampat, where to stay in raja ampat, diving in raja ampat, how to get here, how many days do you need, tips for getting around, best time to visit raja ampat, tailor-made travel itineraries for indonesia, created by local experts.

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Tailor-made trips for   Indonesia

Raja Ampat's position in the Coral Triangle – comprising Indonesia , Malaysia , the Philippines , the Solomon Islands and New Guinea – is significant. Some 1,320 fish species, 553 varieties of coral and 699 molluscs have been recorded here and the discovery of new species – such as the walking shark – are common. Couple this with crystal-clear waters, rainforests and mangroves, and no amount of difficulty getting here seems to be too much trouble.

Alfred Russel Wallace visited Raja Ampat in 1860 in search of birds of paradise, and this amazing area lies just east of the line named in his honour. Infrastructure has developed rapidly in recent years, with an array of upscale dive resorts and more affordable homestay accommodations. The area is particularly popular with live-aboard dive boats.

Diving and snorkelling is the main event; frequently encountered are manta rays, giant groupers and large schools of barracudas and jacks, as well as sharks, whales and dolphins. In the shallows are pygmy shrimp, octopus and nudibranchs. Birdwatching is as exciting as the undersea world. While the fabulous bird of paradise is at the top of most avian enthusiasts’ must-see lists, there are lowland forest, mountain and riverine species to search for.

Raja Ampat islands are home to some of the world's best diving © SergeUWPhoto / Shutterstock

Although there are more than 1,500 small atolls in Raja Ampat group, there are four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati and Misool. These are the best things to do in Raja Ampat islands.

#1 Experience some of the world's best diving

Raja Ampat is one of the best places in the world to dive. A kaleidoscopic underwater world of colour with dolphins, sharks, whales and schools of fish from barracudas to parrotfish, the reefs in this region are incredible. Most explorations are drift dives due to strong currents, but you'll have the chance to experience caves, vertical walls, ridges and lots of coral reefs here too.

#2 Go birdwatching at dawn

For twitchers, Raja Ampat offer the chance to spot a vast array of birds, including two endemic birds of paradise, cassowaries and a large number of brightly-coloured parrots. There are great guides on a number of islands, including Pulau Gam, who can lead you out at dawn on birding trips.

Blyth's hornbill (Rhyticeros plicatus). Raja Ampat, West Papua © Shutterstock

#3 Snorkel in some sublime shallow waters

There are plenty of amazing places for shallow-water snorkelling in Raja Ampat with manta rays, octopus pygmy shrimp, and nudibranchs amongst the prize spots. A number of islands have jetties where it's possible to jump right in and explore the coral, such as on Yenbuba and Sauwandarek. Most places to stay in Raja Ampat will hire out snorkels and fins.

#4 Kayak through paradise

Eco-friendly Kayak4conservation is a community development project and offers homestay-to-homestay programmes for experienced kayakers, or with a guide and support boats for the less adventurous. The homestays are owned by villagers and snorkelling is included in the adventure.

Kayaking in Wayag, Raja Ampat © Shutterstock

Raja Ampat has plenty of accommodation options across the islands – and the choice is only increasing. As well as dive centres and homestays, many travellers will stay on a live-aboard dive boat or cruise.

Gam has the biggest number of places to stay, all along the coast. There are bio-resorts, high-quality diving accommodations, and plenty of rustic homestays too. Inland, expect homestays and guesthouses.

The majority of accommodation on Waigeo is located on the south coast, not far from Marinda Airport. There are some top-notch dive resorts, low-key thatched beach huts and some lovely homestays.

Dotted along the north coast on Kri are dive resorts, villas, and lots of affordable homestays.

The majority of the accommodation on Batanta, mainly homestays but some villas too, is on the north coast and the surrounding atolls.

Tiny Arborek has some great homestays on stilts and basic beach huts.

There are a handful of homestays on Mansuar, plus a couple of dive resorts.

Find accommodation options to stay in Raja Ampat region

Diving in Raja Ampat is a breathtaking experience that divers from around the world flock to. The region is situated in the heart of the Coral Triangle, which is home to the highest marine biodiversity in the world.

Here you'll find a remarkable 500 species of coral — which accounts for 64% of all coral species globally.

With crystal-clear waters and excellent visibility, diving in Raja Ampat is an unforgettable experience that should be on every diver's bucket list.

Best dive spots

Upon submerging your head in the waters of Raja Ampat, you'll be transported into an entirely different realm. Each dive location is unique in its own way. Some spots feature impressive marine creatures like manta rays and sharks, while others are teeming with microorganisms or stunning coral formations.

Kri and Gam are the most popular diving locations, but Waigeo and Misool have incredible dive sites too.

Chose a diving school

Most diving institutions offer guided tours to the top dive sites. With the assistance of your instructor, you may also have the opportunity to explore lesser-known areas for a more daring underwater adventure.

Ensure that you select a diving school that is both certified and staffed with English-speaking instructors who are professionals. Before making a booking, inquire about the quality and state of their diving gear, and verify that they have emergency oxygen readily available.

Additionally, research online reviews of any diving schools that have piqued your interest and make informed decisions to guarantee that you receive proper supervision while diving.

Boat is the only way to get to Raja Ampat © Igor Tichonow / Shutterstock

The only way to get between Raja Ampat islands is by chartered speed boat or via your live-aboard dive boat. Once on the islands, you’ll need to get around on foot.

Almost everyone arrives in Waigeo harbour. From here, you can charter speedboats to your accommodation on whatever island you are staying on.

Due to their remoteness and the difficulty in getting to Raja Ampat, you'll need at least five days to a week here to make the trip worthwhile, particularly if you plan to dive. If you haven't got long, aim for Wayag and Piaynemo (known as Little Wayag), which are both stunning and have some incredible diving. Other big underworld hitters include Blue Magic, the Fam Islands, Kri, and The Passage between Waigeo and Gam.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Indonesia travel experts .

The coral in Raja Ampat is incredible © SARAWUT KUNDEJ / Shutterstock

Sorong, on the northwest tip of Bird’s Head peninsula in New Guinea, is the entry point to Raja Ampat and is accessible on some international flights via Biak.

Sriwijaya Air, Garuda and Wings are among the airlines that fly to Sorong from Jakarta.

Regularly scheduled ferries or chartered boats ply the waters between Sorong and Raja Ampat. Check with your Raja Ampat accommodation to determine if they provide transfers from the harbour.

The best time to visit Raja Ampat is from October to April when the weather is dry, and the sea is calm. During this period, the visibility for diving and snorkeling is excellent, and the water temperature is comfortable. Note that this is also peak time for tourism, which can mean higher prices and crowded dive sites. During this period, it's essential to book your accommodations and dive tours well in advance. The sea can be rough from June to September when it's the wet season. This can make it difficult to dive and snorkel as the visibility can be poor.

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Home > Blog > Best Time to Visit Raja Ampat

Best Time to Visit Raja Ampat

• Anita Ayu Rustyaningtyas
• March 22, 2024
• Visit Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is an untouched island located in the easternmost part of the Indonesian archipelago, precisely in Sorong, Southwest Papua. This remote island has many natural treasures that make it worth visiting. If you plan to explore this island, clearly understanding the best time to visit Raja Ampat would give you the best experience!

Table of Contents

Raja Ampat as The Last Paradise

Nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle,  Raja Ampat is often hailed as the last paradise for its crystal-clear water and rich marine biodiversity. With its beautiful underwater world, Raja Ampat has become one of the best dive sites in the world. When diving in this paradise, you will find marine creatures such as Black Tip Sharks, Diamond Fish, Turtles, Fusiliers, Big Eye Trevally, and Batfish.

Furthermore, you will also be amazed by the majestic coral reef garden. The beautiful colors of the corals shimmering in the sunlight make it look like a splendid natural aquarium. You can only make the most of your trip and enjoy Raja Ampat’s picturesque underwater spectacle when underwater visibility, currents, and temperatures are favorable. As weather conditions affect the wave conditions, be sure to clearly understand the best times of the year to explore Raja Ampat. 

Seasons of Raja Ampat

In contrast to other parts of Indonesia, the weather in Raja Ampat is relatively stable throughout the year, hovering around 25 – 32 degrees Celsius, with high humidity making it feel hotter at times. However, two primary seasons in Raja Ampat are determined by monsoonal winds: the dry season and the rainy season. 

1. Dry Season

Typically, the dry season lasts from October to April. During these months, the weather is more stable, with lower humidity and less rainfall. This makes it ideal for diving and snorkeling due to its underwater visibility and calmer sea conditions. This excellent visibility enables divers to see the diversity of Raja Ampat marine creatures clearly. If you visit Raja Ampat during the dry season, you can see the majestic Manta rays, as this period is the peak manta ray season.

2. Rainy Season

The rainy season typically starts from June to September. However, the wet or rainy season brings its own unique experience as the islands become more lush and green, and the lower temperatures can make trekking and exploring more comfortable. Remember that if you visit during the rainy season, you should be prepared for big waves as the weather is windy. With fewer visitors to Raja Ampat during the rainy season, this is the ideal time to enjoy Raja Ampat in peace and quiet. You can dive more comfortably when the water temperature is at its peak. The wet season is also the best time to dive with manta rays.

Best Time to Visit Raja Ampat 

If you plan to visit Raja Ampat, you’ll need to consider the best time of year to get the desired experience. Raja Ampat is a year-round destination because it is a coral archipelago with weather that tends to stabilize each month.  

According to the Raja Ampat Regional Public Service Agency, the best time to visit Raja Ampat is during the calm season, which typically starts from September to April. During these months, the waves are relatively calm, and it’s a windy season, making it perfect for cruising and diving.  

Read More  Ultimate Guide for the Best Time to Dive Raja Ampat for Foreigners 

Things to do in Raja Ampat

Although known as one of the world’s best dive sites, Raja Ampat has other natural beauty to explore. Here are some of the things to do in Raja Ampat: 

1. Diving and Snorkeling

Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat is famous for its richest marine biodiversity in the world. Diving and snorkeling in Raja Ampat allow you to explore a wide range of marine creatures and vibrant coral reefs, making it a must-visit place for divers and snorkelers. 

2. Island Hopping

Raja Ampat consists of four main islands: Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool, which are encompassed by around 1,500 other smaller islands, cays, and shoals. Each island presents diverse and unique landscapes, such as untouched beaches, secluded lagoons, or localized activities. Making island hopping an essential activity to experience all that Raja Ampat has to offer.     

3. Birdwatching

Raja Ampat is not only a paradise for divers and snorkelers but also a paradise for bird enthusiasts. It is a sanctuary for bird species, including the exquisite Wilson’s Bird of Paradise and the Red Bird of Paradise. These two species of birds can be seen on Waigeo Island, while Wilson’s Bird can also be found on Batanta Island but is less easy to see there.  

4. Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Don’t miss out on the chance to kayak on the crystal-clear water of Raja Ampat. Kayaking in Raja Ampat is undoubtedly the best way to explore the archipelago. Gliding silently through these spectacular islands, without the noise and fumes of outboard motors, is to experience nature at its wildest and most beautiful. 

5. Trekking and Wildlife Watching

Raja Ampat is covered by forests that are home to terrestrial wildlife. Trekking in Raja Ampat takes you on an exciting adventure encountering diverse birds, endemic flora and fauna, and an incredible variety of wildlife in diverse habitats. 

6. Local Food Fest

Be sure to savor some local cuisines to round off your Raja Ampat experience. You must consider tasting the traditional dishes of Papua, such as papeda (sago scratch porridge) and savory yellow fish soup.  

7. Cultural Experience

Walking around the village offers the chance to meet the locals and learn about their culture. You can also meet friendly locals and participate in traditional weaving.

How to Visit Raja Ampat

Getting to Raja Ampat is a long journey but memorable, as it is remote and has strict and changing government policies. Travel to Raja Ampat involves several steps, including a flight to Indonesia, a domestic flight to the nearest airport, and a boat tour. 

To explore Raja Ampat, you must do island-hopping by boat, as the island is only accessible by boat. If you want the best experience, you may consider taking a Raja Ampat Liveaboard from a certified tour operator well in advance. 

Choose a tour operator certified by TripAdvisor, such as KomodoLuxury. As a top-notch operator in Raja Ampat and part of IndonesiaJuara Trip–winner of the 2023 Traveler’s Choice Awards on TripAdvisor, KomodoLuxury offers Raja Ampat Liveaboard with highly skilled guides.  

We recommend you try the Raja Ampat Tour Packages , with options ranging from a minimum of 4 nights up to 12 nights, for those who have the time and seek the best experience exploring Raja Ampat. 

So, are you ready to make your dream vacation come true with us? Visit Raja Ampat at the best time and experience the best adventure with us!

Read More How to Trip from Bali to Raja Ampat 

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING RAJA AMPAT, INDONESIA

• Travel Guides
• May 25, 2023 May 28, 2023
• by wini.henson

Raja Ampat is a tropical paradise that promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, divers, and adventurers alike. Known as the “Four Kings,” Raja Ampat comprises four main islands—Waigeo, Misool, Salawati, and Batanta—and over 1,500 smaller islands. We spent 7 days in Raja Ampat snorkelling with sharks, scuba diving with turtles, and exploring one of the most beautiful places on earth. 

If you’re thinking of planning a trip to Raja Ampat, here are the essential need to know tips & tricks to help you plan your dream trip to Raja Ampat.

WHERE IS RAJA AMPAT?

Situated in the remote region of West Papua, Indonesia, Raja Ampat is world renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty. Its turquoise waters, lush rainforests, towering karst formations, and idyllic sandy beaches create a picturesque landscape that will leave you in awe.

The region is home to an astonishing array of marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. With vibrant coral reefs, over 1,700 fish species, and encounters with majestic creatures like manta rays, turtles, and sharks, Raja Ampat offers some of the world’s best underwater experiences.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?

The best time to visit Raja Ampat is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. However, diving and exploring are possible year-round. May to September brings more rain, but it also offers calmer seas and better visibility for underwater activities. Keep in mind that Raja Ampat is a popular destination, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended.

Raja Ampat is also known to attract large numbers of manta rays. Visitors are able to scuba and snorkel with the majestic manta rays during manta season, which typically occurs between the months of October and April, with the peak time for sightings between November and February.

However, it’s important to note that marine life can be unpredictable, and the presence of mantas can vary from year to year. If encountering manta rays is a priority for your visit, it’s advisable to plan your trip during the peak season and consult with local dive operators or resorts for the most up-to-date information on manta ray activity.

WHERE TO STAY?

The two main options for accomodation in Raja Ampat are liveaboard dive ships or local homestays. Choosing between a liveaboard and a homestay in Raja Ampat depends on your preferences, budget, and desired experience.

Below are some pros and cons of each option:

LIVEABOARD PROS

• Mobility –  Liveaboards allow you to explore different dive sites and remote locations in Raja Ampat, as they offer a floating accommodation that moves from place to place.
• Diving Convenience – Liveaboards are ideal for avid divers, as they provide easy access to multiple dive sites, often including more secluded and less crowded spots.
• Full-Service – Liveaboards usually offer a full-service experience, including meals, equipment, and experienced dive guides.

LIVEABOARD CONS

• Limited Land-based Exploration – Since liveaboards are primarily focused on diving, you may have limited opportunities to explore the islands, local communities, and non-diving activities.
• Motion Sickness and Space – Living on a boat means you’ll be constantly in motion, which can be challenging for those prone to seasickness. Additionally, cabin space may be smaller compared to land-based accommodations.
• Higher Costs – Liveaboard trips tend to be more expensive compared to staying in homestays or resorts on the islands.

HOMESTAY PROS

• Cultural Immersion – Staying in a homestay allows you to experience the local culture and interact with the Papuan people, providing a more immersive experience.
• Cost-Effective – Homestays are usually much more budget-friendly compared to liveaboards or resorts, making them a great option for travellers on a tighter budget.
• Flexibility – You have the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace, engage in activities like hiking, snorkelling, village visits, and beach relaxation, and customise your itinerary.
• Support Local Communities – By choosing a homestay, you contribute directly to the local economy and support the livelihoods of the Papuan communities.

HOMESTAY CONS

• Limited Dive Sites – If diving is your main focus, homestays may have limited access to dive sites, and you may need to rely on local dive operators or travel to designated dive centers.
• Basic Amenities – Homestays generally provide basic facilities and amenities, so if you prefer more luxurious accommodations or specific amenities, this may not be the best option.
• Language Barrier – Communication may be more challenging in homestays, as English proficiency among the hosts may vary.

We chose to stay at a local homestay – Lumba Lumba Guest House on Kri Island. The homestay owner, Dedy, is also a local dive guide and spoke English, so we felt like we had the best of both worlds! He took us to some amazing dive sites, but we also got the freedom, space, and flexibility of staying on an island instead of aboard ship. The best way to book a local homestay is through the Stay Raja Ampat Portal .

Ultimately, the choice between a liveaboard and a homestay depends on your priorities, budget, and travel preferences. If diving is your main focus and you prefer convenience and exploring remote locations, a liveaboard may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you seek a more cultural immersion, flexibility in your itinerary, and a budget-friendly option, a homestay can offer a unique and enriching experience.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

Due to its remote location in West Papua, it is no easy feat to get to Raja Ampat. The gateway city to the islands is called Sorong. The Sorong Airport is only a domestic airport, so if you’re coming from abroad you must fly into an Indonesian international airport, such as Jakarta or Makassar, and then transfer to Sorong. It’s important to note that Bali does not have direct flights to Sorong.

From the Sorong airport, take a 15 minute taxi ride (or the local bus) to the Sorong Port. From the port, you need to catch the ferry to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat. There are two daily express ferries from Sorong to Waisai and Waisai to Sorong. These take around 2 hours and departs daily at 9 am and 2 pm, from both ports. There is no online or booking system yet in place for buying the ferry tickets, you just show up at the port and buy them at the counter. The ferry tickets cost 125,000 IDR/person ($8.30 USD) for the economy class.

The boat transportation for the final stretch between Waisai and your homestay/liveaboard needs to be arranged with your homestay owner in advance. Most of the islands are around a 45-60 minute boat ride away from Waisai, and the price for pickup is quite steep. The cost for one way transportation from Waisai to the islands is a flat rate of 600,000 IDR ($40 USD) per boat, so try and find other people that are going to the same island to share a boat with & split the costs. You can also ask your homestay owner in advance if anybody else from the same homestay is arriving that day, so that you can all share the cost of transfer.

RAJA AMPAT VISITOR ENTRY TICKET

When you arrive at the ferry port in Waisai, all tourists must pay a 300,000 IDR/person fee ($20 USD), which helps to provide for the installation and maintenance of tourism infrastructure. This fee can theoretically be paid in cash or card, but when we went the credit card reader was broken so make sure you have enough cash just in case.

MONEY ON RAJA AMPAT

There are no ATMs on the islands in Raja Ampat so make sure you bring enough cash to pay for the visitor entry ticket, two way Waisai transfers, and any scuba diving/extra excursions you might want to do while visiting. The daily withdrawal limit on Indonesian ATMs are quite low, so make sure you plan for that and take out enough cash to cover your trip. There are ATMs at the Sorong Airport, and a few in Waisai (but they’re not at the harbour). 

Wise is getting more and more popular to pay for goods and services in Indonesia, so we were able to pay our homestay with Wise for our scuba diving and other excursions. Make sure you check with your homestay before arriving if they are able to take Wise payments.

LIFE IN THE HOMESTAYS

All the homestays in Raja Ampat are generally full board, meaning they provide you 3 meals a day included in your reservation. The meals at our homestay were absolutely delicious. We had a wide array of fish, fresh veggies, rice, tempeh, chicken, and potatoes for most meals. Our homestay also provided drinking water, hot tea & coffee.

There are absolutely no stores on most of the islands, so make sure you bring in any snacks you may want/need!

*IMPORTANT NOTE – we had little creatures gnaw through our snacks while we were sleeping, so if you bring snacks keep them tightly packed away in your bag!*

There is no running water in most of the homestays, so the showers and toilet flushing are a traditional bucket style. Bring your own shampoo & conditioner as this is generally not provided.

Bug spray is a must! There are tons of little flies and mosquitos, so bring a good bug spray. We were told by a local guide in Malaysia that the best bug spray is a natural Citronella bug spray. We picked some up before our trip to Raja Ampat and it worked amazingly! It not only keeps mosquitos away, but other bugs too.

The islands run on generators, so power is only on for a few hours per day. Usually the power will come on around 6 pm, and go off again around midnight/1 am.

Bring a good power bank as a backup charge for your devices. We use this one from Anker , which is not only capable of charging our phones, but also our laptops, camera, drone, and GoPro.

Another good travel hack is to bring a lightweight travel extension cord like this one , so that you can plug in multiple devices to charge while the power is on. The Indonesian outlets are two pronged, so bring a good international travel adapter like this one .

CONNECTIVITY

Due to the remote location, most of the islands don’t have wifi. However, there is acceptable phone service in some of the islands. We stayed on the south side of Kri Island, which had decent 4G signal. We bought our 40 GB sim cards through Telkomsel at the Sorong Airport, which cost us 175,000 IDR/person (11 USD) and would be active for the whole month we were going to be in Indonesia. If you’re there for a shorter period of time, you’re able to pick up cheaper sim cards with less data. Telkomsel is the only cell service provider that has service in Raja Ampat, so if you’re starting your trip elsewhere in Indonesia, make sure you get a Telkomsel sim card if you want connectivity on the islands.

THINGS TO DO

Raja Ampat is a water lover’s paradise. Expect to spend just as much time underwater as you do on land when you’re visiting!

SNORKELLING

Even if you’re not scuba certified and would prefer to stay on the surface, the snorkelling in Raja Ampat is out of this world. The coral is incredibly healthy and vibrant, and there are so many different species of fish, sharks, and turtles to see just off the house reefs of the islands. Pack your own snorkel & fins or organise a rental with your homestay for full freedom and flexibility to dive in! 

Explore the incredible underwater world of Raja Ampat by diving in iconic sites like Cape Kri, Chicken Reef, and Manta Point. Don’t miss the chance to encounter diverse marine life and witness the famous “manta ray cleaning stations.” 

DAY TRIP TO PIAYNEMO

An absolutely stunning viewpoint, Piaynemo, offers a mesmerising landscape of karst islets, emerald lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. Climbing the viewpoint’s stairs rewards you with a postcard-worthy view. 

If you plan to do a day trip to Piaynemo, ask your boat driver to take you to Star Lagoon as well. Just around the corner from Piaynemo view point, the climb up to the top of Star Lagoon is a scramble up the rugged and uneven rocks, and offers a stunning 360 viewpoint of the emerald lagoons below. 

To read our full guide to Piaynemo, click here !

VISIT A LOCAL VILLAGE

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a local village. Interact with friendly villagers, admire their traditional stilt houses, and witness traditional dances and handicrafts. During low tide, we were able to walk from Kri Island all the way to Yenbuba Village on the neighbouring Meos Mansar Island.

PREPARATION

Overall, Raja Ampat is a pretty remote & hard to reach place, but if you make the trek out there it’s more than worth it. Since it’s so remote, there is a lot of preparation and planning that needs to be done before hand.

To summarise the most important things to keep in mind:

• Book your homestays on the Stay Raja Ampat website at least a few months in advance during high season
• There are no ATMs on the island, so bring enough cash in advance to pay for any excursions if your homestay doesn’t accept Wise
• If you want connectivity, the Telkomsel sim card is the only one that will work in Raja Ampat
• Power is only on for a few hours a day, so pack a power bank, travel adapter, and travel extension cord
• Bug spray is a must
• There are no stores on the island so bring in any snacks or booze you may want to have for your time there!

Our week in Raja Ampat was truly one of the most spectacular weeks of our lives. It’s a destination that rewards those who venture off the beaten path. Coming here requires careful planning and preparation, but the rewards are immeasurable. Once here, Raja Ampat offers unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and a once in a lifetime experience. 

To view our full Raja Ampat gallery, click here!

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Weather & Climate

In raja ampat.

Overview Climate

A typical evening with rain clouds on the horizon

Raja Ampat's Climate

Located on the equator, Raja Ampat is hot and humid throughout the year. There are seasonal changes , but these are tendencies rather than guarantees.

General Climate

During the days temperatures typically reach 31°C and rarely drop beneath 24°C at night. However, relative humidity is on average above 80%, which can make it feel hotter. Sun rises at around 06:00 and sets shortly after 18:00 throughout the year.

Microclimates

Raja Ampat's weather is influenced by the islands' microclimates a lot, making it hard to predict . Noticeably in the evenings, clouds can build up over the larger islands often leading to localized rainstorms.

Sea Conditions

With an average surface temperature of 29°C, the sea is warm year-round. The tidal currents can be very strong, especially where water movements are channeled by islands and reefs. Large swells are rare and usually limited to the exposed shores in the very north and very south.

Forecast Raja Ampat

Predicting Raja Ampat's Weather

Don't take weather forecasts for granted. In this part of the world weather stations are sparse and the lack of data simply does not allow accurate forecasts. In addition, the islands' microclimates make it even harder to predict anything with certainty.

Location-based predictions will almost always show rain for Raja Ampat. They are not wrong, it almost always does rain somewhere on the islands, but more often than not these are localized downpours.

Should you ignore forecasts completely?

No. Meteorology has improved significantly over the past decade. The limitation is simply the low density of data points in Raja Ampat. Just remember, look at tendencies rather than actual predictions for particular points of time.

Here are two of our preferred weather services:

Weather Maps

They are your best friend. Once you get used to satellite and radar weather maps, you will find them to be a very powerful tool when it comes to assessing the general weather situation.

Our favourite weather maps:

Seasonal Rainfall

A localized rainstorm passing by in Raja Ampat

Wet Season in Raja Ampat

Although there are seasonal changes in Raja Ampat, they are far less dramatic than in other Monsoon-regions. Unlike the rest of Indonesia, wet season in Raja Ampat is just as good a time to visit as any other.

To be very clear: It can rain any day, any time of the year. However, you have better chances for sunny days during northwest-Monsoon.

On the upside, storms are often small enough to simply take a short detour around them .

Southeast Monsoon

May to september.

Statistically, these are the months with the most precipitation. However, by no means will it rain all day every day. Again, rain is usually localized and more often than not can be avoided, while on a boat.

Northwest Monsoon

October to april.

This is the "dry"-season with less precipitation on average, but again: it will rain. At the height of the northwest-Monsoon in December and January, Raja Ampat usually gets its heaviest rains. That's why some call this time of the year the second wet season.

Seasonal Winds

Southerly winds on Wayag's viewpoint in July

Windy Season in Raja Ampat

As with the rain mentioned above, even at the height of the seasons it won't be windy all day, every day . Over the years we have experienced seasons without any noteworthy breeze all the way to gale-like winds for days.

Southerly Winds

July & august.

Usually during the height of the southeast-Monsoon in July and August, there can be strong southerly winds and choppy seas during the day. Most of the time the wind dies and the sea calms down over night. However, occasionally the breeze can hold for a few days and nights, resulting in rather unpleasantly choppy sea.

Northwest Wind

December & january.

At the height of the northwest-Monsoon in December and January there is a chance of strong winds during the day. Especially in the northern parts of Raja Ampat, large swells can build up during this time.

Just another sunny day in Raja Ampat

Best Holiday Season in Raja Ampat

As mentioned above, any time is good to visit Raja Ampat . There is no real off-season. Depending on what you want to do, there may be preferred travel times, but we have been here long enough to tell you it does't matter all that much.

Less Tourism

If you prefer a time with little visitors, we can recommend April and May as well as September and October. Theses shoulder-seasons usually see less tourists than the rest of the year, while still offering good weather conditions. Especially around Christmas and New Year Raja Ampat's famous spots can be - relatively - crowded.

Underwater Conditions

The seasons have little to no influence on the conditions you will encounter underwater. The visibility changes locally according to wind and waves. Some of the marine-megafauna migrates throughout, but we know where to find it.

The key is Flexibility

We will get you to the right place at the right time

Get the Best Experience

Take our advice.

To make your trip enjoyable, we try to avoid choppy crossings and strong winds, since not everyone is as used to the sea, as we are.

Therefore, we kindly ask you to take our advice in case we think changes to the itinerary are beneficial or necessary due to weather conditions.

Weather may be unpredictable, but we know Raja Ampat by heart and we will make sure you get the best possible experience.

Travelling by Boat

There are times when offshore crossings can be very rough. One determining factor is time - in heavy seas and strong winds some routes can take up to four times longer than they usually would - but most importantly are safety considerations.

Responsibility

In accordance with our terms and international marine law (ISM and SOLAS), on board a vessel the captain has overriding authority. Ultimately, decisions regarding routes and destinations always lie with the captain, who has our full support on matters concerning safety at sea.

Upcoming Tours

Some of our journeys are open for you to join ..

Upon booking, every guest can decide whether the tour should be open for fellow travellers to join. This helps to lower the rates and is a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

Remote + Afloat

Raja Ampat: Travel Guide

A complete Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Our complete Raja Ampat travel guide will help you find things to do, the best places to dive + snorkel, the best time to go, where to sleep, how to get there and how to save money.

• Things to do in Raja Ampat
• Alternative things to do
• Best Dive Spots
• Best Snorkel Spots
• Where to stay

Amenities in Raja Ampat

How to get to raja ampat.

• Best time to travel

Money Saving Tips

The best things to do in raja ampat.

Dive – Imagine descending down to a pristine pinnacle surrounded by 5 or 6 oceanic mantas swirling amongst huge schools of jacks and barracuda, while big grey and white tip sharks stalk the area. Look more closely and you’ll spot a Wobbegong, then a turtle, a scornpionfish, and a pygmy seahorse. Yep. Diving in Raja Ampat is probably going to be the best of your life.

Snorkel – Snorkelling in Raja Ampat rivals the diving. Expect to see anything from sharks, mantas, eagle rays, turtles, barracuda, sea snakes, and dugongs. Plus mind boggling macro and amazing colourful coral. We recommend picking a homestay or resort with an excellent housereef. The more time you spend on the reef, the more you realise how unbelievably diverse it is.

Boat trip excursions – Take boat trips to snorkel and explore different parts of Raja Ampat. Stop off at local villages, discover hidden lagoons, hike through the jungle and enjoy many of the amazing snorkel sites that the Dampier Strait has to offer. We like venturing further afield to Batanta or Manyaifun to see an even less populated side of Raja Ampat, and have the reef all to ourselves 😉

Other things to do in Raja Ampat

• RELAX – With no distractions from the outside world, enjoy a complete digital detox and chill out like a castaway. Beaches in Raja Ampat are picture perfect – Enjoy sipping on a coconut, watching the sunset, swinging in a hammock. Paradise found!
• Jungle trekking to see the Red Bird of Paradise – Raja Ampat is the only place in the world to see the elusive Red Bird of Paradise. The best chance of spotting them is on Gam or Waigeo. There are many local guides who know where to find the birds, and will take you for a fair price. Expect to pay around IDR 100-200k per person.
• Kayaking – Renting a kayak is a great way to explore hidden parts of Raja Ampat. There are many little islands, mangrove inlets and lagoons to see. Occasionally homestays and resorts provide their own kayaks, but if you are looking for more of an expedition check out Kayak for Conservation
• Piaynemo / Wayag day trip – Take a boat trip to see the emerald dotted karst islets, which Raja Ampat is so famous for. Hike up through the jungle to view this spectacle at height. It is a photographers dream.

Top 5 Dive Spots in Raja Ampat

• Blue Magic – Make a quick descent to this pinnacle reef for an oceanic manta overload! Possibly one of the most abundant cleaning stations you’ll ever encounter. Blue Magic lives up to its name, you won’t know where to look first.
• Cape Kri – Drift Cape Kri’s sloping wall to see pygmy seahorses in ornate fan corals as turtles and reef sharks pass by in the blue, then enjoy the schooling sweet lips on your safety stop.
• Sardine Reef – Soft coral and black coral bushes populate the entire Sardine Reef area. While barracuda, jacks and giant trevallies swirl overhead, schools of fusiliers, butterfly fish and snappers follow you along with the current.
• Chicken Reef – You won’t see any chickens, but we can guarantee a lot of sharks! White tip reef sharks are a common sight here. There is marine life in all shapes and sizes, you’ll see anything from pygmy seahorses to turtles to schools of bumpheads chomping their way through the reef.
• Mioskun – Mioskun is a good reef for beginners, as the currents here are relatively light in comparison to other sites. Expect abundant yellow snappers, wobbegong sharks, octopus, morays, and walls of schooling fusiliers.

Top 5 Snorkel Spots in Raja Ampat

• Tamaku Reef – If you think you’ve experienced ‘off the beaten track’ then think again. Tamaku is a picture perfect coral reef hidden in the heart of the Manyaifun.
• Sauwandarek Village – Jump in at the jetty and see schools of friendly angelfish, and the resident Napoleon Wrasse. A reef runs the length of the beach and is full of life. You could snorkel away a day here easily.
• Friwen Wall – This is not your average wall. Friwen is an alien underwater world. The overhang is home to all kinds of critters, bizarre and brightly colored corals, fans and fishes. It is like nothing you’ve seen before.
• Cape Kri – Possibly for more adventurous snorkellers, Cape Kri has a strong current. But for those willing to fight it, you will be rewarded with black and white tip sharks, huge schooling groupers and lots of sweetlips.
• Arborek – Famed for its jetty, which is undoubtedly good. But swim 100m past it and you will find the sweet spot. There is a fish frenzy just before sunset.

See our snorkel guide for all 15 of our favourite spots.

Where to stay in Raja Ampat

There are only two types of accommodation available: Homestays run by local Papuan families, and a handful of relatively expensive resorts.  The local Melanesian people are not that familiar with Western-style living conditions so staying here will take you back to basics.

Due to its remote location, all supplies have to be imported over very long distances, and fuel costs in the Papua region are twice that of the Indonesian average so staying here is more expensive than in other parts of Indonesia or SE Asia. Expect standards of accommodation (even at resorts) to be considerably primitive.

Worried about the facilities on offer, or not sure if staying in a Raja Ampat homestay is for you? Read this .

Homestays vs Resorts

Opting to stay in a traditional homestay is a wonderful experience, giving you an authentic taste of Papuan life. It is also the most affordable accommodation. We recommend homestays which are part of the Raja Ampat Homestay Association – this promotes sustainable ecotourism and protects local families from overdevelopment of their land.

Each homestay member must comply to a set of basic rules by offering 3 meals per day, unlimited tea, coffee and drinking water, plus sleeping arrangements in a traditional Papuan bungalow which include pillows and a mattress on the floor. The average cost pp per night is IDR 350,000. All homestays within the HSA can be found on Stay Raja Ampat which is by far the best place to book your homestay.

Resorts in Raja Ampat are mostly tailored towards the lucrative dive community, and standards of accommodation are significantly higher than that of a homestay. However do not expect poolside bars and cocktails. Even at top-end prices, you may still struggle to find simple luxuries such as AC, WiFi, an en suite bathroom. Prices start at IDR 1.5 mil per person per night.

Our Recommended homestays for snorkelers

Beser bay homestay, gam island.

Beser Bay offers an abundant house reef plus excellent standards of comfort and accommodation, in an unforgettable setting. You’ll feel so at home that you won’t want to leave.

Kayafyof Homestay, Arborek Island

There are many homestays to choose from on Arborek, but Kayafyof offers large overwater bungalows in a secluded spot, with stunning views over the Dampier Strait. The snorkeling here is some of the best in Raja Ampat.

Warahnus Homestay, Kri Island

If you opt for one of the newer bungalows at Warahnus you may get to sleep in an actual bed! Apart from that (and the food) the reason to stay here is the awesome house reef at your front door, and Yenbuba Jetty just a stones throw away.

Recommended homestays for divers

Corepen homestay, gam.

Corepen run a small dive operation from their homestay on Gam. Both the diving and the homestay are fantastic. The guides here are highly experienced, safety conscious, passionate and knowledgeable of the surrounding area.

Yenanas Paradise, Gam

If you wish to stay at a homestay, but feel more comfortable diving with a resort, then Yenanas Paradise could be a good option. Their neighbors, the Raja Ampat Biodiversity Eco Resort are happy to take non-guests diving.

Read more about what it’s like staying in a Raja Ampat homestay, and which ones are our personal favorites .

Recommended Resorts

Papua paradise eco resort, birie island.

Papua Paradise is located on beautiful Birie Island in the heart of Batanta. They are a rustic resort offering PADI diving courses.

Misool Eco Resort, Misool

If money were not object, I think we’d all stay at the Misool Eco Resort …

Amenities beyond Waisai are few and far between.

Electricity – There is no national grid in Raja Ampat, meaning no source of electricity. Homestays, Resorts and local villages run off of generators which are typically only available from sunset until midnight.

Internet & Mobile – Internet and phone signal is very limited. And wifi is extremely rare. It is possible to buy a local SIM card with data, but most parts of Raja Ampat have no service.

Getting around – The only form of transport is by boat. There are no road networks within the islands.

Top tip – If you plan on staying in more than one homestay, we strongly advise arranging onward boat transfers with your current accommodation. It’s quicker, easier and far more reliable. Unfortunately we’ve witnessed countless guests lose an entire day or more waiting to be picked up by their next homestay.

Shopping – Some villages have tiny shop windows selling basic supplies, but it is advisable to bring all that you think you might need.

ATMs – ATMs can only be found in Waisai or Sorong, so bring enough money to last the duration of your stay. Most homestays require cash payments.

Hospitals – The closest hospital is in Waisai, but as far as we know, it only administers First Aid. For anything serious you would need to get back to Sorong. Either way, do not expect Western standards of healthcare.

Raja Ampat (or four kings) comprises of four scarcely populated islands: Misool, Batanta, Waigeo and Salawati. To access the islands you must travel via the city of Sorong, in the province of West Papua. There are no direct international flights into Sorong, however you can fly via Jakarta, Makassar, Ambon or Manado with most Indonesian airlines.

Flights to Sorong

From Jakarta to Sorong, fly via Manado (MDC), Ambon (AMQ) or Makassar (UPG). From Bali to Sorong, fly via Manado (MDC) or Makassar (UPG).

Arriving into Sorong airport, you will be bombarded by taxi drivers wanting your business. The general asking price for a taxi to the harbour is IDR 100,000 but you shouldn’t really have to pay more than IDR 50,000. Negotiate hard.

If you don’t have a lot of luggage, get a lift on the back of an Ojek (motorbike) for IDR 20,000. Or if you are on a strict budget, walk a couple of hundred meters outside to the main road and catch a yellow public minibus. This shouldn’t cost more than IDR 5,000 to anywhere in Sorong.

Sorong to Waisai

To get out to the islands, you will first need to reach the capital town of Raja Ampat which is Waisai, on Waigeo. You will be collected from Port Waisai by your homestay or resort. There are several ways of getting to Waisai from Sorong.

Option 1: Public Ferry

Taking the public ferry is by far the most cost-effective and direct route to Port Waisai. The journey takes approx 2 hours and tickets can be purchased on the day of travel at offices in both Waisai and Sorong.

There are 3 companies operating ferries, and departures are from Sorong’s public harbour (Pelabuhan Rakyat):

The Bahari Express  – Has a daily service that is both reliable and frequent. Sorong to Waisai 9am and 2pm daily, Waisai to Sorong 9am and 2pm daily.

The Bahari Express offers two different class options. Tickets are IDR 100,000 for economy class, or IDR 150,000 for VIP.

Top tip – Most tourists take the more expensive (and slightly chaotic) Bahari Express. The ticket office will not willingly explain that there is more than one ferry to Waisai but ask what ferries are available. In our experience, The Marina Express is cheaper and more comfortable.

The Marina Express  – operates two routes with two different boats. 1. Between Sorong and Misool, stopping at Misool’s 35, Foley, Yellu & Fafanlap. 2. Between Waisai and Misool (which requires a change of boat at Sorong.)

The boat is spacious and air conditioned, and tickets are a very reasonable IDR 50,000 per person. Check at Sorong harbor for the most up-to-date ferry schedule.

The Sumber Bangka 7 by PT Fajar also runs between Sorong and Waisai, but check at the harbour ticket offices for the latest schedules and prices.

You may be greeted at Sorong harbour by a friendly local man who goes by the name of ‘Mr John’ (John Urbon). John is a guide working closely with the homestay network in Raja Ampat, and is on hand at Sorong harbour to offer assistance. He speaks excellent English, and has all the latest ferry information. He might even be expecting you!

Top tip – Ferry departures can be delayed and cancelled without prior notice, therefore we strongly advise returning to Sorong the day before your flight leaves.

Option 2: Plane

It is now possible to take a 30 minute flight from Sorong to Waisai. Wings Air flies daily from Sorong (SOQ) to Waisai’s Marinda Airport (RJM). Be advised that homestays and resorts collect guests from Port Waisai, so you’ll need to get a taxi from the airport to meet your pickup at the harbour.

Cost is approximately IDR 300,000 (one way)

Option 3: Speedboat

It is possible to charter a speedboat to take you directly to your accommodation, but this is not something we recommend unless it’s completely necessary. Speedboats are ridiculously expensive (we are talking hundreds of dollars) and a lot less comfortable than the public ferries or flying.

To reach homestays and resorts in the main Dampier Strait area generally takes just under an hour from Port Waisai. Read about our personal journey to Raja Ampat here!

Best time to travel Raja Ampat

The best time of year to visit is from October to April, though the months with the best temperatures and fewest rains are from October to December.

Given the tropical climate of Raja Ampat, it might rain briefly but intensely at any time, but the significant windy and rainy season comes from June to September. During this time it is likely to experience problematic boat journeys.

Best time to dive Raja Ampat

It is possible to dive Raja Ampat year round. Currents are consistently the same but visibility can change from one day to the next. Manta season is typically October-May, but not always guaranteed.

• Share boat trips with other people – Due to the extortionate fuel prices in Raja Ampat, boat trips are overly expensive. Whether it’s your transfer to and from Waisai, or an excursion, share with others where possible.
• Take day trips and excursions to multiple locations – Make the most of your excursion and the cost of the boat by visiting multiple places in close proximity to one another.
• Negotiate the price of your excursions – Homestays set prices for excursions, but we know from experience that these are negotiable. If you can get a bigger group together then there’s more room to maneuver.
• Bring some snacks and alcohol – You may find homestays or village shops selling the odd pack of biscuits or lukewarm Bintang. But they’ll set you back a few bob! So bring treats with you.
• Opt for the least expensive ferry – There is no need to take the Bahari Express if one of the other ferries is departing at the same time.
• Take a minibus in Sorong – Don’t bother with the hassle of negotiating a taxi, take a local yellow minibus and enjoy the sights and sounds of Sorong.
• Dive with homestays – Diving with homestays is well over half the price of diving with a resort in Raja Ampat (you all end up at the same sites anyway!)
• Use a freelance dive guide – If you are an experienced diver with your own gear it could be worth hiring a guide and boat. We know a freelance guide who can take you on personal dives across the Dampier Strait for a very reasonable price.
• As a snorkeller, join dive boats – And get to go to awesome dive spots at a fraction of the price!
• Make the most of your permit – It lasts for 12 months! We’ve used ours three times already. (And there’s a high possibility we might use it again before it runs out…fingers crossed)

Need help preparing for your trip to Raja Ampat? Click here for our essential packing list for snorkellers .

Did you find our Raja Ampat Travel Guide helpful?

Let us know if you found our Raja Ampat travel guide helpful in some way. We will be updating and adding to this guide on a regular basis as things will likely change. If you have any suggestions on how we can improve our Raja Ampat Travel Guide then please leave a comment in the section below.

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27 comments

Hi Clair, Really enjoy reading your Raja Ampat blog and have already booked 2 Homestay for our January / February trip based on your recommendation! We went to Raja Ampat over 8 years ago and haven’t stopped talked about it since so so excited that we are finally returning! Wanted to ask you with regards to the freelance dive guide you mentioned. We have all our own equipment and are experienced divers so this could be great for us. Really appreciate your help. All the best Janne

Thank you for your message! So pleased that you’ve enjoyed reading our blog and found it useful! How fantastic, I bet you can’t wait! I will send you an email regarding the freelance dive guide.

Will be in touch soon – Claire.

Thank you so much. This is by far the best i found on the internet. A lot of usefull info and great tips. Please continue this because you’re doing a great job!

So pleased to hear that you have found our Raja Ampat Travel Guide helpful. We are here in Raja Ampat again for the next couple of months, so expect more information coming soon 🙂

Warm regards, Claire & Nick

this is so helpful. thank you we are planning to ho to Raja next DEC. (2019). can i please e mail you a few questions. thank you very much ornit atia

Hello Ornit,

Many thanks for your comment! We are really pleased to hear that you have found our blog helpful. Please feel free to ask us any questions that you may have in the comments section below – Nick

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What do you think about spending 4/5 days on Kri and 4/5 days on Gam, would it be better to stay put just on the one island instead?

Hi John, Transferring to other islands can eat into both your time and budget. Since you’ll only be in Raja Ampat for 10 days we’d personally recommend choosing a homestay that is right for you and then staying in one place. You can use the money you’ll save on transfers for day trips and excursions to other islands. Our homestay reviews and recommendations may help you decide which one to go for. Thanks for your comment – Nick

Much appreciated, thank you

Your post has been one of the most helpful I’ve seen of Raja Ampat.

Wife and I will be going there for about 10 days this coming January.

We are just snorkeler. Would you be able to advise us on how to split up our trip? How many days should we stay per homestay? Which islands would you recommend us staying in?

I read the packing list for snorkeling, but do you have a more general packing list for Raja Ampat? Such as toiletries and food. Would we need a filtered water bottle? Was sunblock widely available?

Also, do you recommend heading back to Sorong the day before our flight departs? We are scheduled for 14:30 flight.

Thanks in advance. -Sam

Thank you Sam! Transfers between islands can be quite expensive and time consuming therefore we would ideally recommend keeping this to a minimum, so you can maximise your time in Raja Ampat. With 10 days, we would suggest perhaps no more than 2-3 homestays . In terms of island choice, it really depends on what you like. Our preference is more quiet and secluded homestays on Gam and Mansuar, but if you are looking for islands with a little more going on then perhaps somewhere like Kri or Arborek would be better suited for you. Either way, all the islands offer fantastic snorkelling. We particularly like the reefs towards western Gam and west/southern Mansuar. Please refer to our snorkel spot recommendations for more details.

Have you read our toiletries packing list yet? Everything on this list applies to Raja Ampat. We do recommend taking some extra snacks along with you, however be careful about storing food in your bungalow as this can attract rats. We usually bring nuts which are a handy snack. Drinking water is provided by all homestays so a filtered water bottle is not necessary.

Once you leave Sorong/Waisai, the availability of specific amenities such as toiletries and sunblock are pretty much non-existent. There are no shops in the villages, only small local tokos selling mostly biscuits and sweets.

Other items you should definitely pack for Raja Ampat include; A head torch, a power bank to charge electrical items, ear drops, a hat, mosquito repellant, afterbite/antiseptic cream, a good medical kit , binoculars if you plan to see the Birds of Paradise, if you feel the heat a small USB fan can come in handy, some small gifts for the homestay children, and if you are snorkelers, pretty much everything on our snorkel packing list!

It is possible to catch the 14:30 flight and the ferry is normally quite prompt, but you don’t leave yourself much time for incidentals. Probably not worth the risk if you have international flight connections.

Hope this answers all of your questions, but please feel free to comment below if anything else comes to mind. Have a great trip – Nick

Thank you for your response.

I still haven’t booked a stay yet for our january trip. Soooo many options. Most likely, we will just stay at one place for our 10 day trip.

I do have question regarding money. I’m guessing most places prefer cash, but I don’t feel so comfortable carrying around large amounts of cash and leaving it in our room while we are out all day.

Do you have any advice on this issue?

How much cash should we have per person per day?

Is there a way to settle up with the home stay providers at the end of the stay at a ATM in town?

Thanks. -Sam

Hi Sam, Cash is preferable, however it is now possible to book via stayrajaampat.com and pay online.

Some homestays also accept payment by card, but we’d recommend checking this with them first to make sure it’s possible (it depends on internet connection)

Generally we would say that Raja Ampat is incredibly safe, and crime levels seem very low. We’ve never had an issue with leaving cash (or any other valuables) in our room, and don’t know of anyone that has.

Yes you can definitely settle up at the end of your stay, and visit an ATM in Waisai. Just be sure to leave yourselves plenty of time to catch the ferry, as town is a little further from the port.

It is very difficult for us to say how much cash you will need for your trip per day, as this really depends on how many excursions/transfers you plan on doing and where to, as these can range vastly in price.

Good luck with the rest of your trip planning, and enjoy your time in Raja – Nick

Hi Claire and Nick,

Many thanks for all the information you have provided, I especially appreciate having your list of top snorkel spots! My husband and I are planning a trip in March (2-3 weeks). We snorkel rather than dive and I can’t make up my mind whether it’s worth going on a liveaboard or make our way around on our own (following a similar itinerary to the above). Have you had any experience of doing a liveaboard please (or had feedback from other people)?

Many thanks! Anna

Hi Anna, thanks so much for commenting! If money is no option, then a snorkel liveaboard would be a great way of exploring Raja Ampat, especially for more hard to reach areas such as Misool or Wayag.

The main Dampier Strait snorkel spots we have listed above are all really accessible from the islands of Gam, Kri, Mansuar and Arborek (all of which offer ample homestays) so you wouldn’t necessarily need to do a liveaboard to explore these sites.

For us, since we travel on a budget and stay for a long time, we really enjoy the homestay experience. We like having our own space, we can go out when we please and don’t have to stick to a given itinerary. It’s also a really lovely way of spending time with the local people and soaking in all the beauty on land.

If you have 3 weeks, perhaps you could split your stay between a 7 night liveaboard in the north or southern regions, and then spend the rest of your time at some of the islands / homestays around the main Dampier Strait. Hope this helps with your decision, either way you will love it here! All the best – Claire & Nick

Thanks Nick, that’s really helpful advice! I think a combination would be a good option in that case.

Yes, we’re super excited to come and discover it! Thanks again, Anna

These guys are amazing. Real travellers in heart and soul. They want all the best for Raja Ampat and the local communities. The kind of people that we need more in this world. The fact that they share their knowledge helped us out a great deal. We were happy to meet them in Raja Ampat after contacting them. The information provided is very trustworthy as are they.

Jaap & Imke – It was such a pleasure meeting you both in Raja Ampat, we cannot thank you enough for your continued support and kind words. Hope to see you on the road again some day!

Hi there! My husband and I are currently in Bali and I have been researching Raja Ampat.. We plan to head there in about a week. Do you have any recommendations for reputable Liveaboard boats (for snorkling) by chance?

Hi. Jessica and Nick, Your blog is invaluable. I think I have read everything and am starting to get a feel for the way things work. We are hoping to go when things open up (have had our 1st dose of vaccine). Can’t thank you enough for writing this!

You’re most welcome Joan 🙂

Thank you so much for all the helpful snorkel advice! i have a practical question.. I want to stay 2 months in R4. I see you guys were also there longer. Is there a way get a visa extension in Waisai? Or do you know what other options I have? Thankyou

What’s the situation with alcohol? Will I have trouble getting a beer on an evening? Additionally I will probably visit during Ramadam next month, will that make a difference?

No it won’t make a difference in Raja Ampat, beer is expensive but bottle can be purchased at small village convenience stores scattered around the islands. Sorong may prove more difficult during this time but the higher-end hotels should have stock.

Hi Claire, Some of homestays you recommend are closed, such as Beser Bay. If one pays attention many guests suffer food poisoning so I am taking care in choosing accommodation. The transfers between places are ridiculously high. Have you found a way to bypass this?

I am almost at the point of booking at one place for 7 days since the transfer and snorkel sessions are included. Raja Ampat Dive Lodge, Biodiversity and Kri Eco Lodge fall in my budget (barely) – which house reef do you prefer? Papua Paradise is unfortunately super expensive. Thank you

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Best time to dive in Raja Ampat | Seasons & Weather |

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• October 30, 2023

Raja Ampat is often hailed as one of the world’s most extraordinary diving destinations. With its unparalleled marine biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes, it’s no wonder that divers from all corners of the globe flock to these Indonesian waters to explore its vibrant coral reefs and exhilarating dive sites.

However, for those seeking the ultimate diving experience, understanding the region’s seasonal variations and the best time to dive in Raja Ampat is crucial. In this article, we will delve into the factors that influence diving conditions throughout the year, helping you plan the dive trip of a lifetime.

Two factors to choose the best time to dive in Raja Ampat: Geography and climate

Raja Ampat consists of four main islands—Waigeo, Misool, Salawati, and Batanta—along with hundreds of smaller islets. Its unique location at the crossroads of the Pacific and Indian Oceans has endowed the region with a rich diversity of marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

The archipelago’s equatorial climate ensures warm temperatures year-round, with average air and water temperatures hovering between 27-30°C (80-86°F).

The region experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season, also known as the southwest monsoon, and the dry season, characterized by the northwest monsoon. These seasons influence the best times for diving in Raja Ampat .

Wet Season (June to September)

The wet season typically begins in June and extends through September. During this time, the archipelago experiences higher rainfall and increased humidity. While diving is still possible, divers may encounter brief, sporadic rain showers and slightly reduced visibility due to runoff from the mainland.

However, the wet season does have its advantages. The warm waters are perfect for coral growth, and the marine life is still abundant. Diving during this season can be less crowded, making it a fantastic time for those seeking a more intimate and peaceful diving experience. The water temperatures are also at their peak, which is comfortable for divers, and this is the time when manta rays are more commonly spotted in the region.

Dry Season (October to April)

The dry season, which stretches from October to April, is often considered the best time to dive in Raja Ampat. During this period, the weather is more stable, and the seas are generally calmer. This is also the time when the strong northeast trade winds bring nutrient-rich waters to the surface, creating ideal conditions for marine life.

The visibility underwater is at its best during the dry season, often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), allowing divers to fully appreciate the awe-inspiring coral formations and the incredible diversity of marine species that call Raja Ampat home. The archipelago’s signature dive sites, such as Misool’s Fiabacet and Wayag’s Passage, are particularly stunning during this season.

The dry season also presents a higher likelihood of encountering the region’s famous manta rays, as well as other charismatic megafauna, including sharks, dolphins, and even the elusive whale shark. It’s a time when underwater photographers can capture the stunning beauty of Raja Ampat at its finest.

Taking this information into account, what is the best time to dive in Raja Ampat?

While the dry season is generally regarded as the best time to dive in Raja Ampat, the region offers exceptional diving year-round. Each season brings its unique attractions and experiences. Regardless of when you visit, there are some year-round highlights to look forward to:

U nparalleled Biodiversity: Raja Ampat is home to over 1,500 species of fish and 550 species of coral, making it a biodiversity hotspot. You can encounter an astonishing array of marine life at any time of the year.

World-Class Dive Sites: Iconic dive sites like The Passage, Cape Kri, and Blue Magic are accessible year-round, offering thrilling underwater experiences for divers of all levels.

Cultural Immersion: In addition to its underwater wonders, Raja Ampat boasts unique cultures and traditions. Visiting local villages and learning about the indigenous communities is an enriching experience year-round.

C onservation Efforts: The local communities and conservation organizations work tirelessly to protect the delicate marine ecosystems in Raja Ampat. Your visit can contribute to these preservation efforts, regardless of the season.

At Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort we are waiting for you to come and enjoy your experience in Raja Ampat all year round.

Raja Ampat is a diver’s paradise that offers unparalleled underwater beauty and biodiversity. The best time to dive in Raja Ampat is during the dry season, from October to April, when conditions are most favorable for exceptional underwater experiences. However, the wet season, from June to September, also has its unique charm and is less crowded. 

Whenever you choose to visit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking dive sites, incredible marine life, and a chance to contribute to the conservation of this precious ecosystem. So, pack your gear, book your trip, and get ready to explore the underwater wonders of Raja Ampat, one of the world’s most extraordinary dive destinations.

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Raja Ampat Biodiversity Eco Resort is a place to connect with nature in one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world!

Apart from the marine life that you can enjoy diving or snorkeling , Raja Ampat offers many other activities that will allow you to explore this spectacular part of the planet; kayaks, cultural visits to the villages, excursions in the jungle, visits to the small islands, enjoy the fauna and birds of the area (many of them endemic) …

In this blog we will share some of our adventures with you.

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Raja Ampat, Papua: Travel Guide to Spectacular Remote Islands in Indonesia

by Drifter Planet | Jan 13, 2017 | Indonesia , Islands

Two months back I died and I went to heaven. Heaven looks like something like this…

Pasir Timbul in Raja Ampat, Indonesia – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Yes, it’s true that there are countless destinations around the world that are famous for beaches and marine biodiversity, but there is nothing like Raja Ampat. Why? Because Raja Ampat doesn’t get many visitors and it is easy to enjoy the beauty without the crowds. Moreover, it is a part of the famous “Coral Triangle” that every marine enthusiast and scuba diver knows of. The coral triangle is also called the “Amazon of the seas” because it covers only 1.6% of earth’s oceanic area but has more than 76% of all known coral species in the world.

I spent a few days in Raja Ampat and I got to see some of the  most beautiful beach es, colorful marine life, remote villages, and spectacular sunsets and met many wonderful people. Wouldn’t you wanna know more about this slice of paradise?

If you’re lazy to read the entire post, then you can just watch this 2 minute video summary that I made of Raja Ampat. Hope you like it.

Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Where is raja ampat.

Raja Ampat is in Indonesia. If you look at the map, you will notice that Indonesia is highly spread out. Raja Ampat is the east most part of Indonesia and is a part of the island group of New Guinea. These set of 1500 islands that collectively form Raja Ampat are in Indonesia’s West Papua province.

How to Reach Raja Ampat

Here’s the thing, good things in life are never easy. That’s the case with Raja Ampat because getting there can require a bit of patience and determination. It took me more than a day to reach Raja Ampat from Yogyakarta with a night stay in Makassar.

To get to Raja Ampat, you need to reach Sorong. Flights to Sorong can be taken from Jakarta or Bali or Yogyakarta or even Singapore (Silk air). These flights will most likely stop in either Manado or Makassar. Once you reach Sorong, you will need to get to the main harbor of Sorong for your ferry to Waisai, which is on the island of Waigeo and is the capital of the Raja Ampat. You can take an express ferry or a slow boat, and both leave in the mornings at 9 am or 11 am, depending on the day. The express ferry takes around 2 hours and the slow boat takes around 5 hours. The white and orange Bahari Express ferries are the fast boats and Fajar Mulia is the name of the slow boat. To reach your final destination, you will need to have your hotel (or homestay) send a boat to Waisai to pick you up.

To recap, refer to the below table:

Flight to Sorong -> Taxi to Sorong Harbor -> Bahari Express ferry OR Fajar Mulia ferry to Waisai -> Boat Transfer to be arranged by your Hotel / Homestay.

Here’s an excellent post with detailed information about how to reach Raja Ampat , check it out.

Please understand that Raja Ampat is a remote destination. If you’re looking for an alternative destination in Indonesia that’s easier to reach, check out Komodo Island. Here’s a detailed guide that will help you plan a trip to Komodo Island . You can also read about  Kelimutu lakes in Flores . 

Where to Stay in Raja Ampat:

Hotels in raja ampat.

Massive Chessboard on the beach at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge

I stayed at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge ( see reviews on TripAdvisor)  which is on Mansuar Island. Raja Ampat Dive Lodge has a long stretch of private beach right. This white sand beach is right outside this resort’s cute wooden bungalows. If you like to snorkel, you can rent one here and snorkel around the bungalows. The water is crystal clear and I saw a lot of nemos and one lionfish here.

Entry Pier at Raja Ampat Die Lodge – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

While I was here, I woke up every morning with a smile because I could here birds singing. As soon as I would open my door, the sight of a spectacular beach would greet me. Perhaps it sounds really cliché, but I had to pinch myself to believe if it was real. It was amazing having my own space and my own private white sand beach right outside the door. Pretty often, I would see a cute little family of ducks out for a morning walk on the beach outside my cottage.

A duck family on my Private Beach at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Raja Ampat Dive Lodge has a dive shop inside, which is one of the most reputed one in the area. Not just dive tours, they can also organize island-hopping tours for you. The restaurant serves very good food, which isn’t as spicy as the rest of Indonesia. My best meal here was an amazing seafood barbecue with massive prawns. Yum!

BBQ Seafod, Prawn Crackers and cheesy potato soup at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge

Honestly, this resort is so pretty that I did not want to leave. They have limited number of cottages, so I highly recommend you book it well in advance before it gets sold out. While we were there, it was sold out and some of us had to share rooms. If you’re visiting Raja Ampat, please do yourself a favor and stay in Raja Ampat Dive Lodge. Click here to find the latest deals on rooms here.

Homestays in Raja Ampat

If you’re visiting Raja Ampat on a budget, then staying in a homestay is perhaps the only way that you can save on your costs. It will be an adventure in itself, considering how remote and beautiful Raja Ampat is. Most of these homestays will arrange to pick you up from Waisai island main pier. The prices for most of these vary between $25 to $29 for one person and $50 – $60 for two – check out the below options:

• Papuarts Alter Native Stay  – Average cost per night in USD – $75
• Warimpurem Homestay  – Average cost per night in USD – $53
• Miosba Homestay  – Average cost per night in USD – $56
• Kamar Raja Guest House  – Average cost per night in USD – $79
• Yenkoranu Homestay  – Average cost per night in USD – $50 – $80
• Corepen Homestay  – Average cost per night in USD – $50 – $80
• Raja Ampat Diva Homestay  – Average cost per night in USD – $56
• Raja Ampat Sunrise Homestay  – Average cost per night in USD – $56
• TeraAilan Heritage Resort  -Average cost per night in USD – $44

Things to do in Raja Ampat

01 | scuba dive / snorkel.

Raja Ampat’s marine life – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

The first point is pretty much obvious. The marine life in Raja Ampat looked like it was right out of a documentary. I saw many different kinds of fish, in a lot of and colors and sizes. If you are not a diver, then please at least spend a few hours snorkeling to because here, it is the BEST in the world.

Right outside Raja Ampat Dive Lodge , I got to see clownfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and lionfish. Obviously I saw many more but I’m not so good with fish names. When we went to our first dive site, I was amazed at the density of marine life. Orange, purple, green, blue – I was surrounded by different colors as I snorkeled around.

Sadly, I couldn’t experience amazing scuba diving in Raja Ampat , because it was necessary to have finished 20 dives but I had just done just two (Yes, it sucks)!

Even then, the snorkeling experience was extraordinary because of the density. I highly recommend you check out this post to see information about Raja Ampat scuba diving liveaboard (+ pics are stunning).

Finding Nemo – Clownfish in Raja Ampat

As I mentioned before, Raja Ampat is a part of Coral Triangle, which has the most diverse marine life on the planet. It has obviously been mentioned as one of the top scuba diving locations in the world by a lot of travel guides. Oh and btw, we also spotted a walking shark (epaulette) in the mangroves near the pier of our hotel. (Don’t worry, they are harmless)

Suggested:  Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving in Indonesia

02 | Visit Pasir Timbul – the Most Beautiful Beach on Earth

Pasir Timbul, Raja Ampat – the most beautiful beach I’ve seen

If someone asked me to describe paradise, I’d narrate a picture of Pasir Timbul . Any words that I say won’t do any justice to the beauty but I’ll try my best. It is the most beautiful beach that I have ever seen in my life. Too bad, my GoPro lens was foggy and I wasn’t able to get the best shots.

Pasir Timbul is an area in the ocean where the sand emerges out for a few hours a day to form small sand patches. This happens when the tide is low and gradually disappears as the tide moves high. Our boat anchored at a distance of around 500 meters from here because the ocean bed is shallow here.

As the boat stopped, the view made me jump with joy. I’m not exaggerating, so here’s a picture that you can see and judge for yourself.

First View – Pasir Timbul from the boat

After this point, we had to walk (or swim) in order to reach the beaches. And yes, there was more than one beach because the sand had emerged to form mini islands. There were sandbars that connected these islands and it was fun to walk on them. I will stop describing now because you should read my travel guide for Pasir Timbul if you want to know more. 😉

03 | Climb up to the famous Pianemo Viewpoint of Raja Ampat

Pianemo Viewpoint – Raja Ampat Travel Guide by Drifter Planet

Pianemo Viewpoint is the most famous viewpoint of Raja Ampat and is usually the cover image of most of the travel guides and magazines about this destination. I’m sure you would have seen a picture of this at some point somewhere. Yes, it is as beautiful as those pictures.

Reaching here took us around 30 minutes on a boat from the hotel. My hangover disappeared as we anchored our boat outside the entry point where the steps began, because it was so goddamn beautiful! Everywhere around us the water was clear greenish-blue.

The steps were many but I was in a hurry to get there so I literally ran up. When I reached up, it was empty and I got some amazing pictures without anyone in them. This kind of reminded me of the amazing viewpoints in Palawaan that I a little less than a year back. Click here if you want to decide which one you like more?

After the viewpoint, we walked back down and jumped into the water for a swim. To be honest, the water was not clear here so we couldn’t see any marine life.

04 | Visit Arborek Village Island and Eat with the Lovely Locals

Beautiful children of Arborek village – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Honestly, I knew nothing of Arborek Village and neither was I expecting too much. But I was so happy when I reached here because it was an experience to remember.

There were easily 100 village people waiting for us as our boat reached Arborek Village. Which was surprising because that’s literally half the population of the island. Several smiling children stood outside and were dressed in their traditional attire. We were informed that they had prepared a welcome performance for us.

As we stepped on the pier, those children came forward and started singing and dancing for us. It was the sweetest and the most beautiful welcome that I have ever received in my life and I had to hide a tiny tear at the end of their performance.

We were told not to click any pictures or to make any videos during their performance. For whatever reasons it may be, it was a good thing because everyone saw them through their eyes, instead of the camera screens.

After the welcome, the kids held out hands and led us inside their village. Everyone else followed us, and walked behind us singing. Many of us danced while walking so it felt like we were a part of a parade.

As we walked, we saw a continuous strip of beach on our right. On our left were a few colorful huts and I wish that one was mine. Considering the welcome that we received, I would have still liked this place if it wasn’t pretty but just like everything in Raja Ampat, this was magical. The beach here was actually very beautiful because it was wide, long and shady. As you can see the the picture, the sand was sugary white and the water was very blue. Due to the abundance of trees on the beach, it was possible to find many shady spots.

We must have walked for just 500 meters when the beach became wider. We decided to sit here to enjoy the beach for most of our time in Arborek.

Singing with the locals on the beach at Arborek Village – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

The island is very small so it is easy see pretty much everything by walking. We saw a church, a school and a few homestays. After exploring and swimming around, we saw under a tree and listened to the villages sing songs while playing their handmade instruments. After while, it was time to enjoy a delicious lunch that the locals had cooked for us. Obviously there was a lot of fish.

05 | Visit the School Kids at Taman Bacaan Pelangi

Adorable school kids at School Kids at Taman Bacaan Pelangi

Taman Bacaan Pelangi or Rainbow Reading Gardens is a non-profit group that builds libraries for children in remote villages of Indonesia. We visited this place as soon as arrived in Raja Ampat and met 100s of school children.

These children were very excited to meet us and just like the ones in Arborek, they welcomed us by performing. Right after that, we sat with them and read some of their books with them and answered their army of questions.

I knew Bollywood was big in other countries, but I never realized the magnitude till the time I reached Indonesia. I was presently surprised when I saw how the children at Taman Bacaan Pelangi School sang songs from Hindi movies.

I met Nila, the girl whose passion led her to start Taman Bacaan Pelangi. Not just Raja Ampat, but her organization has made 38 more children libraries in remote parts of Indonesia. Aren’t these kids cute? You can help Nila build more such libraries and provide resources for many other children in Indonesia by Raja Ampat Dive Lodge .

06 | Visit Sawinggrai Village (or Sawing Ray Village)

Sawinggrai Village – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

Sawing Ray or Sawinggrai Village is a tiny fisherman village in Raja Ampat. It is a typical authentic Papuan village with slow life. There is a lot to see above and below water here. I visited this village twice when I was in Raja Ampat and was surprised to see how the color of the water looks different on both sides of the jetty as the sun moves. Exactly for this, this village’s main pier is an excellent spot for both, sunrise and sunset.

In Sawinggrai Village, there are many colorful huts above the water and small walking paths. Below the water I saw some amazing corals and many colorful fish. I carried some bread with me to feed the fishes near the pier and I was amazed at the density. I don’t know the name if this black and white stripped fish but I saw it all over Palawan too! Do you know the name?

07 | Go for Bird watching to see the Birds of Paradise

Red Bird of Paradise Raja Ampat – Photo by Time Travel Turtle

If you’re a fan of Planet Earth series like I am, chances are you have seen the dance of Birds of Paradise. Red bird of Paradise and Cendrawasih (a kind of Bird of Paradise) can be sometimes spotted in Sawinggrai Village. So how do you find these pretty creatures? Pretty much every hotel or homestay can arrange to take you on an early morning tour to the spots inside the forest where these birds perform their famous mating dance.

08 | Visit Kabui Bay

My Indonesian Travel Buddies at Kabui Bay – Raja Ampat Travel Guide

While Pianemo Viewpoint is the more famous one, Kabui Bay viewpoint is also quite pretty. You can visit here along with Pasir Timbul, one after another on the same day. Unlike Pianemo Viewpoint, you don’t have to climb really high for the view. There is a little standing platform on one of the limestone rocks that can easily fit 20 people.

Personally, I prefer the view from Pianemo Viewpoint over Kabui Bay because we got a bird eye view. I highly recommend you check the weather forecast beforehand because it doesn’t look very nice when it rains.

Weather in Raja Ampat and When to Visit

In Raja Ampat, there can be massive variations in the weather conditions between different islands. Since it is a tropical destination, Raja Ampat is warm and can be visited throughout the year. It temperature usually remains between 27 – 32° C.  It can rain anytime for short durations. It rained when I visited the  Pianemo Viewpoint . The best time to visit Raja Ampat is from the months of October to April. If you’re visiting just to scuba dive, then you need to know that many dive shops don’t operate from July and September due to heavy rains.

Travel Tips for Raja Ampat

I want to share a few travel tips for Raja Ampat based on my experience there. I’m not mentioning the obvious ones like carrying a sunscreen or a waterproof bag, etc., because I assume you know that already.

01 | Travel Expenses and Budgeting

I will be honest – Raja Ampat is not a cheap destination, but is a luxury destination. Not only is the cost of getting there is high but so is the internal boat transport. I wouldn’t have been able to afford visiting a destination like this on my own if the Indonesian government didn’t sponsor me.

Although staying in Raja Ampat can be cheap if you book village homestays, it is the cost of getting there is what makes Raja Ampat an expensive travel destination. I went two months back (November 2016) and it took us two flights, two boats and one bus to reach here. Obviously if you total up all the costs, it’s not cheap.

If you can afford the cost of getting there, that’s amazing because you can find a homestay to make the rest of your holiday affordable. You can reduce your costs further if your homestay is centrally located so that you don’t have to spend a lot on internal boat transfers. Pick one in Arborek Village or Sawinggrai Village so that you’re closer to the places which I have written about.

Normally I don’t like planning things before my trips but Raja Ampat is one such destination where planning is essential if you want to save money. Make sure you speak to your hotel / homestay about boat transfers while booking.

Read: Havelock Island of the Andaman Island Group  

02 | Scuba Diving in Raja Ampat

If you are a newbie diver (like me) and want to travel to Raja Ampat just to scuba dive, I’d recommend you speak to a few dive shops first. Most of the dives sites in Raja Ampat are for advanced divers with at least 20 dives in their logbook. It is because the currents are very strong and can take to the edge of the reef. But don’t be disappointed if you can’t scuba dive there because the snorkeling experience there is something you will remember for life.

03 | Prepare to be in a Remote Area

Raja Ampat is not like Bali or Palawan where you will find shops that sell basic needs. Most of the areas in Raja Ampat are so remote that you won’t find anything apart from your hotel. Pack strategically and carry everything that you may need for the time you’re there. The closest city like area is in Sorong, which will be a few hours boat ride away from your place of staying.

04 | ATMs in Raja Ampat

I’m sure you would have realized by now that Raja Ampat is really remote and yes, there are no ATMs here. A few hotels do accept cards but you need to plan and carry more than enough cash because the card machines may not always be working.

05 | Mosquito Repellent

Like most of the tropical island destinations, the mosquitos in Raja Ampat are vicious. Carry an herbal insect repellent with citronella or coconut so that you don’t cause any damage to the marine life when you swim. Using a coconut oil really helps but you need to reapply it often.  

06 | Time Zone in Raja Ampat

I have never mentioned time zone in any of my travel tips for anywhere, however I think it’s important that you should know. Indonesia has three time zones because it is spread out over many different longitudes. The time zones of Jakarta, Bali and Raja Ampat are all different. Due to low network connectivity, your phone clock may not auto update, so please check with the locals and adjust your clock. It was hilarious how many of us were confused with the time while we were in Raja Ampat because to reach here we had to change three different time zones. If you don’t want to miss your early morning bird watching session or sunrise photography, do keep this point in mind.

Suggested reading: Komodo National Park, Indonesia  

Travel Costs for Raja Ampat

To help you get an idea, I have divided the travel costs for Raja Ampat in different sections. You can use this as a ballpark figure to plan your travel expenses. I will try to update these costs on a regular basis but I suggest you do a little bit of your own research as well after reading this article.

• Flights: Return flights from Jakarta / Bali to Sorong: USD 200 – 250
• Permit Fee for international visitors: USD 75 (or IDR 1,000,000)
• Ferry from Sorong to Waisai: USD 10 (or IDR 130,000) for one way.
• Room: Hotel: USD 150 – 200 per night (usually includes diving) ; Homestay: USD 50 per night
• Boat Tours: USD 55 – 105 per person (depending on the route)
• Cost of a beer at Raja Ampat Dive Lodge: USD 5 (or 60,000 IDR)

So are you ready to see some of the most beautiful beaches, corals and marine life that’s on our planet? Plan a trip to Raja Ampat today.

Have you visited Raja Ampat already?

You may also like reading about the below destinations:

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – 13 Things I did here that I had never done before

Best Islands of the World

Palawan , the Philippines

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16 Comments

Loved reading the article. Missed going to Raja Ampat when I was in Indonesia. So glad to have known about it through your eyes. Nice 🙂

Hi Deepika, I’m glad you like this article. 🙂 It’s ok, Indonesia is not so far and we don’t even need a visa so there’s always a next time.

Such a detailed and delightful post! Your pictures have been making me want to plan a trip to Raja Ampat, but now reading this makes me want to go right away. Also, love your blog design. (Can’t say it enough)

Thank you Aditi. 🙂 I’m glad you want to visit Raja Ampat. It’s an experience that you will never forget in your lifetime. And thanks again, it’s good to know that you like the design because I spent HOURS making it. 🙂

Wow! I am awestruck at the beauty of Raja Ampat, and appreciate you giving us the opportunity to visit vicariously! Love your photos and the video!

You’re welcome Lois. 🙂 Yes Raja Ampat is truly spectacular and I’m happy that you enjoyed the photos and the travel video.

The color of the water there is blowing my mind! 🙂 So many places in the world that we don’t even know exist! Raja Ampat looks absolutely gorgeous.

Yeah Raja Ampat is not so well known. I heard about this place from my scuba diver friends because it’s famous for colorful marine life. 🙂 I was so happy when I got to know that I’m getting a chance to visit.

Wow this is just a stunning place. I have been seeing a lot of videos of more remote and tourist-less Indonesian islands lately….makes me want to go.The the locals are so great.

Hi Evelyne, yes Raja Ampat truly is stunning. I wish I could go back for scuba diving in Raja Ampat. The beauty is not just above water, but is also underwater. 😀

Oh my goodness, that is what heaven looks like! I am sure of it. What a glorious trip to Raja Ampat. Fabulous pictures and those school kids…my favorite!

Thanks Melody, I’m glad you like my Raja Ampat travel guide. Indonesia really is awesome and this place is in West Papua, which is remote. Visiting this place was a crazy experience.

Raja Ampat looks like an amazing place with memorable experiences. And, I love that it is not a typical tourist destination. Love all the photos and the video. You’ve captured it well.

Thanks Lara, I’m happy to know that you like the pictures and videos. Yes, Raja Ampat is truly stunning and I hope to spread awareness about this paradise in Indonesia with the help of my travel guide for Raja Ampat. 🙂

Raja Ampat seems to like a Indian Name….More than day to reach there.. wow… and what a great set of islands… 1500 island…sound so amazing…..One might stay is also cheaper….

Indonesia has the island paradise you can visit while on vacation to cool off, Raja Ampat. Your experience in Raja Ampat during this very exciting and inspiring, thank you

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Last Updated on July 21, 2022 by Drifter Planet

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Raja Ampat Travel Tips

Raja Ampat is one of the most magical scuba diving destinations you can imagine! This archipelago is located in West Papua in Indonesia. Most of the Islands are still unexplored and only few Liveaboards and dive resorts offer diving in Raja Ampat.

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/diverslog/5714828164/

This area was even voted the richest reef in the World in 2007 by National Geographic . The biodiversity here is just outstanding. Many new species have been discovered in recent years in the area and passionate underwater photographers come from all over the world to discover this gem.

Raja Ampat Islands are truly spectacular, covered by lush jungle and surrounded by pristine reefs with a teeming marine life. Diving in this area is great for macro photography and critters as well as big fishes and Manta rays ! The coral is magnificent and still untouched.

In Raja Ampat, the beauty is everywhere, above and below the surface.

Table of contents

• Raja Ampat travel

Where to stay?

• Activies and Excursions
• Best time to visit

Health and Safety

• Where is Raja Ampat?
• Getting there
• Getting around
• Photos Raja Ampat
• Best dive spots

Scuba diving

I usually use this website to book in advance my hotels in Raja Ampat as they usually have the lowest rates I find. I like it because it's free to cancel and change the dates.

For the resorts , you will have the choice between:

• Kri Eco Resort
• Sorido Bay Resort
• Misool Eco resort
• Raja Ampat dive lodge

Activities and excursions in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is 100% about scuba diving and snorkelling. For the non divers, there is not much to do. You can go trekking in the lush tropical forest to have a glimpse of the fantastic fauna of the local forest. If you are lucky you can even spot the superb Bird of Paradise ! Sea Kayaking around the Islands is also a great experience!

Best time to visit Raja Ampat

The climate is tropical with hot and humid air. The weather is sunny all year with some rainy days. From May to September, there is more rain than the other months but nothing too bad.

If you are planning an upcoming dive trip or travelling to Raja Ampat, it is a really good idea to invest in travel insurance for scuba diving, because you never know what could happen and when you might need it (because accidents do happen!). I recommend this diving insurance as they offer worldwide coverage and focus on providing scuba divers a quality insurance and medical assistance service.

Where is Raja Ampat located in the world?

Raja Ampat is located in Papua Archipelago in Indonesia. See the map below.

Raja Ampat Map

How to get to Raja Ampat?

The Raja Ampats Islands are very remote. To go there you need to:

• Step 1: Fly firstly to Jakarta, Bali , Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
• Step 2: Once you are in one of these cities, get a flight to Sorong in West Papua, Indonesia. Most of the flights have a stopover in Makassar (Ujung Pandang airport) in Sulawesi. There are also flights from Manado to Sorong.

If you are in Indonesia , the companies you can take are Garuda Indonesia (the National Company), Batavia Air, Merpati, Express Air, and Lion Air.

If you are in Singapore , you can take Silk Air to reach Manado in Sulawesi first then another flight to Sorong with Merpati or Lion Air.

• Step 3: Local staff from your liveaboard or from your dive resort should wait for you at Sorong Airport. You will then embark the liveaboard or take a fast boat to reach your diving resort.

Note: You need a permit to enter West Papua. The formalities will be completed by your dive operator but don’t forget to bring your passport, 3 photocopies of your Indonesian Visa and an ID picture.

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/dodol/1308850135/

Getting Around

There are no roads, no transportation infrastructure in Raja Ampat. The only way to get around is by boat.

Raja Ampat Photos

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You will find all information about sea life, best time to visit, top dive spots, etc. in our review: Raja Ampat Diving

Diving Reviews for this region

Richest Reef in the World, Amazing Biodiversity, Wonderful Coral, perfect place for underwater photography.

Raja Ampat Diving Review

Liveaboard Reviews in Raja Ampat

MV Black Manta Diving

. Please note… The Black Manta has bee

MV Black Manta Diving Liveaboard Review

KLM Sea Safari VI

The luxurious Sea Safari VI is a liveabo

KLM Sea Safari VI Liveaboard Review

Tiaré Cruise

The Tiaré Cruise is a luxury liveaboard

Tiaré Cruise Liveaboard Review

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Arenui Liveaboard Review

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Alila Purnama Liveaboard Review

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The 22 meters MS Wellenreng is a charter

MS Wellenreng Liveaboard Review

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Mutiara Laut Liveaboard Review

The 30 meters Manta Mae is a liveaboard

Manta Mae Liveaboard Review

Please note… The Waow does not operate

MSY Waow Liveaboard Review

Cruise ship Reviews in Raja Ampat

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Diving Raja Ampat

Diving in Raja Ampat

Divezone has complete information about scuba diving and snorkelling in Raja Ampat. For information about the best time to dive, list of fishes spotted in these waters, please check our Raja Ampat Diving Review.

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Plan the ideal time to embark on your Raja Ampat cruise

Aqua Blu sails Raja Ampat from December through to February.

In the Far East of Indonesia where Raja Ampat is located, the monsoon season runs opposite to most of the country. This means that from October through to May, Ambon & Spice Islands in particular receives little rainfall.

Taking sea condition into consideration, the best month to sail Ambon & Spice Islands is from October through to March. This period also sees manta rays congregate at their cleaning stations, which makes for a truly marvellous sight.

Due to its equatorial location, Raja Ampat’s temperature remains fairly constant, with daytime maximums of 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius) and nighttime lows of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius).

Rainfall in Raja Ampat from December to February remains constant at an average of 211mm per month.

The region of Raja Ampat is dominated by microclimates, which means weather can differ from island to island and hour by hour. It’s not uncommon for rain to fall for a short period (five to 50 minutes) only for bright sunshine and blue skies to return afterwards!

Daytime Length: 12.5 hours

Average wind speed: 2.9 – 3.5 knots (Barely noticeable)

Sustained high wind speed: 7.7 – 8.1 (Gentle breeze)

Relative Humidity: 81 – 83% (December through to February), 82 – 86% (Other months)

Water Temperature: 28 – 30℃ From the months of October through to March sea temperatures are pleasant 83 – 86 degrees Fahrenheit (28-30 degrees Celsius).

Water Visibility: 10-20 metres

Or discover your home on the Indonesian seas….

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Or contact us for more information

Snorkeling in Raja Ampat

Renowned for its pristine marine biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs snorkeling in Raja Ampat is a breathtaking experience that promises to be unlike any other.

• July 5, 2023

What to Expect Snorkeling in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is an archipelago in Indonesia, located in SouthWest Papua. Diving and snorkeling conditions in the Dampier Strait are good all year round. The climate of Papua has diffuse seasons with no particular dry or rainy season. The summer months are windier, which can make the sea choppy but only on the surface. On the contrary: visibility tends to be the best during this time of the year.

Best time to Visit

The ideal time to visit for the best snorkeling conditions, is typically between October and April when the weather is drier and the water visibility is better. Visibility tends to be influenced by high plankton concentrations which guarantee massive pelagic encounters. Being located that close to the equator and protected by several mountains island masses, we have a kind of micro climate. Water temperature is a constant 28 or 29 degrees Celcius.

Favorite Snorkeling Sites

Many of the well-known diving and snorkeling sites were discovered by Papua Diving. Some of our favorite snorkeling sites are Friwenbonda, Mike's Point, Melissa's Garden, Sauwandarek jetty, Yenbuba jetty, Kri Jetty, and of course not to forget the famous Cape Kri, right next to our Sorido Bay Resort. Check out our Dive Sites Page to have an overview and list of sites that are possible for snorkeling in Raja Ampat.

Snorkeling Equipment

Wondering what to bring on your snorkeling trip? At the resorts, we have snorkeling gear you can rent onsite and we also have a shop with the essentials you will need for your snorkeling trip. However, if you would like to bring your own equipment and you are wondering what to bring, find out how to prepare for your snorkeling trip here: "Snorkeling Packing List: 8 Essentials to Pack"

Snorkeling Excursions and Guided Tours

Papua Diving offers snorkeling excursions and guided tours. Our guided snorkeling tours are led by our experienced guides who know the best spots, and ensure your safety while snorkeling.

Visit our Excursions Page for more information on Raja Ampat tours with Papua Diving Resorts.

Unparalleled Marine Biodiversity

Raja Ampat is considered one of the most biodiverse marine environments on the planet. It is home to a vast array of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and even the elusive and extraordinary "walking" epaulette sharks.

Swimming with Manta Rays

Raja Ampat is famous for its manta ray populations, and you may have the opportunity to snorkel alongside these graceful and awe-inspiring creatures.

Vibrant Coral Reefs

The coral reefs in Raja Ampat are in excellent condition and offer a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. You can expect to see hard and soft corals, gorgonians, sea fans, and sponges teeming with marine life.

Pristine and Remote Locations

Raja Ampat's snorkeling spots are often in remote and less-visited areas, which means you can enjoy the beauty of the underwater world without large crowds or disturbances.

Crystal-Clear Waters

The waters around Raja Ampat are exceptionally clear, providing excellent visibility for snorkelers. This clarity allows you to see the underwater beauty in all its glory, making for fantastic snorkeling experiences.

Snorkeling from Beaches and Islands

Many of the snorkeling spots are easily accessible from the beaches or nearby islands, making it convenient for snorkelers of all levels to explore the marine wonders.

Responsible Tourism

Papua Diving is known for its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices. As a responsible snorkeler, you'll be encouraged to follow guidelines to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.

All visitors, divers or non-divers, are required to purchase a marine park tag which is valid for one year starting from the date of purchase. The cost is 1 000 000 Rupiah (approx. 65 euro) for foreigners. Indonesian nationals pay 500 000 IDR. Children 12 years and younger are exempted from paying the fee.

To make your registration process faster, we will pay this fee ahead of time for you on your behalf. So you will only need to settle this fee with us and not the local government.

Remember to be respectful of the marine environment, avoid touching or damaging coral, and never disturb or harass marine life. This way, you can help preserve the beauty of Raja Ampat for future generations to enjoy.

Accommodation

At Papua Diving Resorts, we have two private resorts located on Kri Island. Located in the center of the marine park, our resorts are about 5 - 10 minutes away from most of the well-known sites.

Sorido Bay Resort : Set along a secluded shoreline, Sorido Bay Resort is comprised of just 7 spacious, air conditioned rooms with a veranda that overlooks a vibrant reef. Here you can watch the sun rise over the world famous Cape Kri or let your worries melt away at the spa!

Kri Eco Resort : Looking out over the dark blue waters of the Dampier Strait and distant mountains, our Papuan style water bungalows allow you to fully connect with your surroundings. Comprised of 12 overwater cottages with 3 room types, this pioneering resort is perfectly placed for you to watch stunning sunrises and sunsets as you begin and end your day in this tropical paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information or questions, please refer to our FAQ Page or feel free to contact us at [email protected] and our team will be more than happy to assist you with your travel plans.

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Passing Thru Travel

The Best 10 Places for Snorkeling in 2024

Posted: March 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 23, 2024

Snorkeling offers an accessible and magical way to explore the underwater realms that cover much of our planet. This guide, crafted with the discerning traveler in mind, explores the world’s premier snorkeling destinations. Each location is selected for its vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters and its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices. From the kaleidoscopic coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef to the serene, turtle-filled waters of the Gili Islands, these destinations offer unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of the underwater world.

1. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Debra James

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, comprising over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching over 2,300 kilometers. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and a myriad of other marine creatures.

The reef’s vast size means snorkeling spots are suitable for all experience levels, from shallow, calm waters for beginners to more challenging sites with strong currents for experienced snorkelers.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the outer reef for the clearest water and most vibrant coral formations. Many operators offer eco-friendly tours that contribute to reef conservation efforts.

When to Travel: The best time to visit is from June to October, during the Australian winter, when the water is clearest and snorkeling conditions are optimal.

How to Get There: Fly into Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, with international connections through major Australian cities. From Cairns, numerous tour operators offer snorkeling trips to various parts of the reef.

2. The Maldives

Image Credit: Shutterstock / MaszaS

The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. The archipelago’s atolls offer some of the best snorkeling in the world, with easy access to the reefs right from the islands’ shores. Snorkelers can expect to encounter a wide array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and even whale sharks in certain areas.

Insider’s Tip: For a unique experience, choose a resort that offers night snorkeling tours to see the reef’s nocturnal creatures come to life.

When to Travel: The dry season from November to April offers the best snorkeling conditions, with calm seas and excellent visibility.

How to Get There: International flights arrive at Malé International Airport. From there, seaplanes or boats are typically used to reach the various islands and resorts.

3. The Silfra Fissure, Iceland

Image credit: Shutterstock / VicPhotoria

The Silfra Fissure offers a unique snorkeling experience in the crystal-clear glacial waters between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The visibility in Silfra is unparalleled, often exceeding 100 meters, allowing snorkelers to see the stunning underwater topography and vivid blue colors of the fissure. The water temperature is cold year-round, but dry suits provided by tour operators ensure a comfortable experience.

Insider’s Tip: Book your snorkeling tour early in the morning for a more serene experience before the site gets busy with other tourists.

When to Travel: Snorkeling in Silfra is possible year-round, but the summer months of June to August offer more daylight and slightly warmer water temperatures.

How to Get There: Silfra is located in Þingvellir National Park, about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik. Guided tours can be arranged from the city.

4. Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ditras Family

Raja Ampat, located off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua, Indonesia, is considered one of Earth’s most biodiverse marine habitats. The archipelago’s clear, warm waters are home to over 1,000 species of coral-inhabiting fish, 700 species of mollusk, and more than 500 types of coral. The shallow reefs offer easy access for snorkelers, providing up-close encounters with the vibrant underwater life.

Insider’s Tip: Stay at an eco-resort to support sustainable tourism practices and gain access to exclusive snorkeling sites.

When to Travel: The best time to visit is from October to April when the seas are calmest, and visibility is best.

How to Get There: Fly to Sorong via Jakarta or Bali, then take a boat to your chosen island within the Raja Ampat archipelago.

5. The Bay of Donsol, Philippines

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dudarev Mikhail

The Bay of Donsol is renowned for allowing snorkelers to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea. These gentle giants frequent the waters of Donsol from November to June, attracted by the abundance of plankton.

Snorkeling with whale sharks in Donsol is regulated to ensure the safety of both the animals and snorkelers, providing a responsible wildlife encounter that is both thrilling and respectful.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a morning snorkeling session when whale shark sightings are most frequent and the water conditions are ideal.

When to Travel: Visit between November and June for the best chance to snorkel with whale sharks, with peak sightings from February to May.

How to Get There: Fly to Legazpi City from Manila, then travel by road to Donsol, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.

6. The Belize Barrier Reef, Belize

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Globe Guide Media Inc

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world, offering an incredible diversity of snorkeling sites, including the famous Great Blue Hole. The reef is home to a vast array of marine life, including endangered species such as the West Indian manatee and the green turtle. The clear, warm waters and the reef’s proximity to the coast make it an ideal snorkeling destination for all skill levels.

Insider’s Tip: Include a visit to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where the shallow waters are teeming with fish, rays, and occasionally, nurse sharks.

When to Travel: The dry season from November to May provides the best snorkeling conditions, with calm seas and excellent visibility.

How to Get There: Fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City. Take a domestic flight or boat to your chosen destination along the reef from there.

7. The Red Sea, Egypt

The Red Sea is famed for its clear, warm waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. The extensive fringing reef system offers easy shore access for snorkelers, making it possible to explore the underwater wonders just steps from the beach. The Red Sea’s reefs are well-preserved, with strict conservation measures in place to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.

Insider’s Tip: For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the reefs around Marsa Alam, where there are fewer crowds and abundant marine life.

When to Travel: The best time for snorkeling in the Red Sea is from March to May and from September to November when the water temperatures are comfortable and the weather is pleasant.

How to Get There: International flights arrive at several airports along the Red Sea coast, including Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. Numerous resorts and snorkeling sites are easily accessible from these cities.

8. The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Image Credit: Shutterstock / npavlov

The Galapagos Islands offer a unique snorkeling experience, with the chance to encounter an array of endemic species above and below the water. The nutrient-rich currents attract diverse marine life, including sea lions, marine iguanas, and countless fish species. The islands’ remote location has helped preserve their pristine condition, offering a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling adventure.

Insider’s Tip: Consider a liveaboard snorkeling cruise to visit the islands’ most remote and unspoiled snorkeling sites.

When to Travel: From December to May, the warm season offers the best snorkeling conditions, with warmer water and calmer seas.

How to Get There: Fly to Quito or Guayaquil in Ecuador, then take a domestic flight to the Galápagos Islands. Snorkeling tours are available from both Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal islands.

9. The Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Image Credit: Shutterstock / huang jenhung

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and a unique system of freshwater cenotes offering diverse snorkeling experiences. The reef provides a habitat for various marine species, while the cenotes offer a glimpse into an otherworldly underwater landscape of crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations. Snorkeling in the cenotes is an unforgettable experience, with the sunlight filtering through the water, creating a magical atmosphere.

Insider’s Tip: For a truly unique experience, snorkel in the cenotes early in the morning before the crowds arrive, when the light and visibility are at their best.

When to Travel: The best time to snorkel in the Yucatán Peninsula is from November to March, during the dry season, when sea conditions are calm and visibility is high.

How to Get There: Fly into Cancún International Airport, a gateway to the Yucatán Peninsula’s snorkeling destinations. The reef and cenotes are accessible by car or tour from Cancún and the Riviera Maya.

10. The Seychelles

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iryna Shpulak

The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The islands offer a variety of snorkeling experiences, from the shallow, sheltered reefs ideal for beginners to more adventurous sites with stronger currents. The Seychelles’ commitment to environmental conservation ensures that its marine ecosystems remain healthy and vibrant.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, where you can snorkel among hundreds of fish species and pristine coral gardens within a protected reserve.

When to Travel: The best snorkeling conditions in the Seychelles are from April to May and from October to November when the water is calmest and visibility is at its peak.

How to Get There: International flights arrive at Seychelles International Airport on Mahé, the largest island. From Mahé, inter-island ferries and domestic flights provide access to the other islands.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Patryk Kosmider

As you embark on your snorkeling adventures, remember that the beauty of the underwater world is a treasure to be cherished and protected. By choosing destinations committed to conservation and practicing responsible snorkeling, you contribute to preserving these ecosystems for future generations. Snorkeling allows you to experience the incredible diversity of life beneath the waves, a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things, and the importance of our role in safeguarding the planet’s natural wonders.

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The post The Best 10 Places for Snorkeling in 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Daniel Torobekov.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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10 of the best holidays for freedom-loving DINKs*

*Dual Income No Kids. No little scamps cramping your style? Take one of these adult-perfect breaks full of luxury, adventure and bragging rights

In 2024 the DINKs – that is, Dual Income, No Kids couples – are having a new heyday. Unhindered by 7pm bedtimes or structured school holidays, and with extra cash in the bank, the childless-by-choice are free to enjoy far-flung or lengthy trips in the world’s most inspiring destinations.

Sound like you? Make the most of all that spare income, and your ability to jet off at a moment’s notice, and book one of these once-in-a-lifetime trips…

 Explore the Dalai Lama’s homeland

With its soaring altitudes – capital Lhasa is one of the highest cities in the world – rich cultural sights and adventurous air, Tibet isn’t number one on family-friendly to-do lists. But it’s brilliant for unencumbered DINKs who can tour the majestic Potala Palace, wander through Norbulingka, summer palace of the Dalai Lama, and visit vast and serene monasteries. On a 10-day trip with World Expeditions starting and ending in China’s Chengdu, you’ll enter Tibet via a spectacular train ride – the highest in the world – and reach heights of 3,670m. Heady stuff indeed.

From £2,690 per person for 10 days,  worldexpeditions.com

Unwind at an adults-only all-inclusive

No splash pools, no screaming at the buffet – if you want tropical all-inclusive relaxation with a kiddie-free ambiance, then an adults-only hotel fits the bill. One of few Maldivian private island stays with a strict grown-ups-only policy, Hurawalhi epitomises the Indian Ocean dream with its rows of overwater villas, complete with sundecks and steps leading right into the sea. Clink cocktails as the sunset descends, join a dolphin cruise or take a windsurfing lesson. Then (for an extra fee) feast on limey fish carpaccio and king crab with saffron foam in 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant.

From £4,499 per person for 7 nights, travelbag.co.uk

Cruise to the White Continent

An Antarctic cruise is proper bucket list territory – but between the high cost per-head and challenging crossing of the notoriously rough Drake Passage, it’s not really one for wee travellers. Small-scale expedition sailings from high-end French cruise operator Ponant get you up close with the glacial, iceberg-dotted landscapes of the White Continent while also delivering sophisticated adult atmosphere via chic design, white tablecloth dining and expert-led lectures. On a 10-night Emblematic Antarctica voyage starting and ending in Ushuaia in Argentina, you’ll hike, sea kayak and ride in a zodiac inflatable with a pro naturalist who’ll point out humpback whales, leopard seals and multiple types of penguin.

From £9,470 per person for 10 nights, ponant.com

Cycle the wine trails of Umbria

Nothing says ‘grown up’ holiday like a visit to a wine region. Especially when you do it as part of a cycling tour, feeling the freedom of the breeze against your face as you peddle through rolling vineyards, sun-speckled olive groves and medieval villages. On a self-guided cycling tour with Headwater you and your other half can wind your way through the photogenic Valle Umbra to hilltop wine village Montefalco to sip crisp Grechetto-based whites and inky reds made from Sangiovese and Sagrantino. When bellies start to rumble, there’s no compromising on where or what to eat; so tuck into ribbony strangozzi pasta with heaps of black truffle.

From £1,399 per person for 7 nights, headwater.com

Safari in Namibia

There are plenty of family-friendly safaris out there – but Namibia’s offering is distinctly adult with its swathes of ancient orange desert and petrified trees, stashes of Stone Age rock art and world-class stargazing. On a dedicated Namibia for Couples trip with Original Travel the mood is expertly catered for romance, with a dune-top stay in the NamibRand reserve offering 30-degree views of the landscape – as well as 4x4 and walking safaris through challenging terrain, and evening campfire sessions under a pinprick sky. Cheetahs, lions, hartebeest, impala and leopards all roam the epic and austere wilds, so keep cameras at the ready.

From £7,415 per person for 13 days, originaltravel.co.uk

Hike the Inca Trail

Are you the couple that gets their kicks from a good old hike? Then with no kids to stop you, you can sign up for one of the world’s most iconic treks: Peru’s Inca Trail. Squiggly through mountain passes, cloud forest and ancient ruins to end in world-famous Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century Lost City of the Incas, the five-day guided hike is best tackled as part of a wider tour of the wonders of Peru. G Adventures runs main iterations including a 14-day ‘Inca Trail and the Amazon’ trip which includes visits to the serene Sacred Valley, historic capital Cusco, the wildlife-dense Amazon jungle and foodie capital Lima.

From £4,599 per person for 14 days, gadventures.com

Road trip along Route 66

America’s most iconic drive is one best tackled without a chorus of ‘are we there yet?’ echoing from the back seat. Long days in the car aren’t made for little legs, but as a twosome you can take a leisurely fortnight travelling by road from Chicago to Los Angeles, enjoying the scenery segue from glassy skyscrapers to forested mountains, arid desert and turquoise-lapped coast. Along the way you can pull over for meals in humble diners, quirky old museums and dusty towns that feel straight from the movies. And when you finally hit Santa Monica, California, you can spread out your towel on the beach to take in the sunshine without having to build a single sandcastle.

From £1,557 per person for 14 days, americaasyoulikeit.com

Island hop and dive in Raja Ampat

Strung off West Papua in a patchwork of blue, the remote and jungled archipelago of Raja Ampat is largely undiscovered – just the thing if you’re looking for a twosome trip with serious bragging rights. The 1,500 or so hilly islands hold white-sand beaches, hidden lagoons and some of the world’s finest diving reefs, perfect for exploring on board a small vessel. Cruise through the Misool archipelago, stopping off for snorkels, swims and dives and to explore domed caves. When you aren’t below the surface, you’ll have time together to enjoy untouched beaches, learn about local Asai culture and hike through dense landscapes.

From £10,620 per person for 15 days, audleytravel.com

See Europe by rail

Anyone can take a short European city break – but for DINKs with time, cash and flexibility, the chance to tour the continent in depth becomes a real possibility. In a more sophisticated take in Interrailing, Byway offers a 40-day Grand Tour of Europe by train which will zip you from London to Scotland, France to Belgium, Switzerland to Italy and beyond, ticking off the highlights of nearly a dozen capital cities. You’ll spend multiple nights in each stop so you’ve plenty of time to sightsee (or catch up on emails if you’re going to be remote working along the way). As a bonus, it’s an eco-friendly way to explore, too.

From £4,091 per person for 40 days, byway.travel

White Water Raft in Costa Rica

Coddled in dense jungle in the lush wilds of central Costa Rica, lush eco-stay Pacuare Lodge has one main way in: via a white-water rafting ride along the frothy rapids of the snaking Rio Pacuare. It’s the perfect heart-stopping approach for active couples who want to earn their stay at this indoor-outdoor wilderness lodge, where days can be spent canyoning, ziplining or hiking – or just kicking back in villas with deep soaking tubs. Tuck into organic farm-to-fork food, to the soothing sounds of nature, and don’t miss the after-dark tours of the local wildlife, including porcupines, tree frogs and snakes.

Seven nights with three at Pacuare Lodge from £5,605 per person including flights, elegantresorts.co.uk

ON THE PALAU SIREN!

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Majik Cruises Last Minute Special: Get Up To 15% Off

Majik Cruises is a luxurious 42-meter yacht handcrafted using traditional Phinisi boat-building techniques. With a dedicated crew of 11, Majik can accommodate up to 8 adults and 2 children in 4 spacious and comfortable en-suite cabins. The yacht features two Master Cabins, one at the aft and one at the front, each with an Australian king-size bed and a sofa that can be used as a child's bed, and two Deluxe Cabins with a double bed that can be converted to twin single beds. The Master Deluxe Cabin offers exclusive access to the swimming platform, while the other cabins are located on the lower deck.  More about Majik Cruises here.

majik cruises last minute special

Get 15% off all trips in may.

May 2 - 7, 2024 (6D/5N) | Komodo

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Charter Rate From  5,500   NOW 4,675 USD

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Charter Rate From 5,500 NOW 4,950 USD

Prices are based on double-occupancy unless otherwise specified.  11% VAT excluded . Contact us for more information.

• Marine Park, Harbor and Community fees
• Full board with International and Indonesian food including 5 meals / day: 2 breakfasts (1 light + 1 full breakfast), 2/3 course lunch, afternoon snacks, 2/3 course-dinner,
• Soft drinks
• Scuba diving for certified divers (fun dives)
• Scuba diving gear and snorkeling (except dive computer)
• NITROX for certified divers
• 1 free massage per person per cruise
• Intro dives for non-certified divers (please note that the number of intro dives per day depends on the availability of the CD, the trip itinerary and ocean conditions)
• Snorkeling excursions
• Shore excursions and island expeditions
• Sea Kayak & Stand Up Paddle
• Yacht – Airport or hotel if similar distance.
• Room & beach towels, Soap, Shampoo,
• WiFi when in range
• All prices are subject to 11% Government Tax
• International and domestic flights & airport tax if any
• Dive insurance (mandatory for scuba divers)
• Travel insurance (recommended)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Dive computer (can be rented for 10$/day)
• Crew gratuities (tips) – at your discretion
• Extra massages: 30 USD / 45 min massage
• Scuba Diving Courses (please note that the specifics of the course have to be communicated in advance so we can determine if it’s possible to conduct a course onboard)

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