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Raja Ampat
Hundreds of islands, the clearest water I've ever swum in, and manta rays gliding right below the boat.
Download Complete Itinerary← All GuidesHundreds of islands, the clearest water I've ever swum in, and manta rays gliding right below the boat.
Download Complete ItineraryEverything I'd tell a friend before visiting Raja Ampat 🐠 — hundreds of limestone islands, some of the best snorkelling on the planet, and a slower pace of life than anywhere else I've been in Indonesia.
Getting to Raja Ampat is probably the most confusing part of planning the trip—but it's actually much easier than it sounds. India → Jakarta/Bali → Sorong → Ferry to Waisai → Boat to your accommodation.
The public ferry from Sorong to Waisai takes around 2 hours, and most homestays or resorts will arrange the final boat transfer to your island.
Tip: The ferry is actually the easiest part of the journey. Before booking your flights, confirm your accommodation first—they'll usually help coordinate your ferry timings and boat pickup from Waisai.
I'd recommend spending 5 days in Raja Ampat. If you're short on time, 4 days is the absolute minimum I'd recommend because you'll lose almost a full day getting there.
Once you arrive, boats are your only mode of transport. Almost every snorkelling spot, viewpoint and island is only accessible by boat.
Tip: Stay on Kri Island or Gam Island if it's your first visit. They're well connected to the best snorkelling spots and island-hopping routes.
Kri Island
Perfect if you're visiting mainly for snorkelling or diving. Most of Raja Ampat's famous underwater sites are just a short boat ride away, making it one of the easiest and most popular places to stay.
Gam Island
If your idea of a perfect holiday is disconnecting from the world, you'll love Gam. Quiet beaches, lush jungle, Birds of Paradise treks and peaceful sunsets make it one of the most relaxing islands in Raja Ampat.
Waigeo
The largest island in Raja Ampat and home to Waisai. A good option if you want to explore local villages, viewpoints and have easier access to transport.
Piaynemo
You can't stay here, but you absolutely shouldn't leave Raja Ampat without visiting. The iconic viewpoint overlooking hundreds of limestone islands is one of the most breathtaking landscapes I've ever seen.
Kri Island (2 Days) → Gam Island (2 Days) → Piaynemo & nearby islands (1 Day).
One thing I loved about Raja Ampat is how simple everything is. Most homestays include breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you rarely have to worry about finding restaurants.
Expect plenty of fresh grilled fish, rice, vegetables, tropical fruits and local Papuan dishes. If you're staying on the smaller islands, meals are usually home-cooked by your hosts, which makes the whole experience feel even more personal.
In Waisai, recommend: Warung Makan Raja, Mien Papua Restaurant.
"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever."
— Devsmita Verma