The ultimate guide to Raja Ampat

With its location right on the equator, Raja Ampat has a hot and tropical climate all year round. In general, the best time to visit is during the dry season from September to April. This is also a great time for scuba diving, as the seas are calmer and you’ll have better visibility.

It goes without saying that scuba diving is the number one activity in Raja Ampat. With over 4.9 million acres designated as a marine protected area, the waters of this archipelago are teeming with vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life. The many dive sites offer something for every diver, from muck diving to large, predatory creatures. Cape Kri and Sardines are two popular sites, with a huge variety of corals, tropical fish, and tiny critters. Sorido Wall is another gem, where you can see everything from macro life to schools of fusiliers and reef sharks. Friwen Wall is great for colourful soft corals, while Manta Sandy and Manta Ridge offer close-up views of manta rays. Many of these sites are snorkel-friendly, too.

With their dazzling colours and magnificent plumage, the birds of paradise are some of the most attractive birds on the planet. Raja Ampat is home to two endemic species – the Red bird of paradise and Wilson’s bird of paradise, which are only found on the islands of Waigeo, Batanta, and Gam. A favourite land-based activity in the region is a birdwatching tour through the jungle to encounter these spectacular creatures in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you may even get to catch the males performing their mating dance. Other birds you can see on your walk include cockatoos, hornbills, herons, and sea eagles.

Another exciting day out in Raja Ampat is a trip to Batanta, one of the four main islands. Made up of lush rainforests, this island is home to creatures like the Rufous-bellied kookaburra and the endemic Waigeo brush-tailed possum. While it’s exciting to see the wildlife, the waterfalls are Batanta’s main attraction. A short walk through the rainforest will bring you to the first waterfall, where fresh spring water cascades down the rocks into a turquoise pool. After a swim, continue walking upstream to the second waterfall. At 80 metres high, this one is even more impressive, serving as a relaxing spot to cool down while listening to birdsong.

If you think that Raja Ampat’s postcard-perfect beaches are stunning, wait until you see them from above. Dotted around the region are several viewing platforms where you can admire the panoramas. One of the most iconic locations is Wayag Island, where a steep climb will reward you with views of the beautiful atolls. Wayag is very remote and is about a six to eight hour return trip from Waigeo, so if you don’t want to travel too far, Piaynemo offers equally striking views a little closer to the main islands. The view of emerald lagoons and verdant islets from the peak is sure to blow you away. 

If you find yourself in Misool, be sure to visit Puncak Dafalen, where you can take photos of the famous ‘Love Lagoon’ from above. Puncak Harfat is another viewpoint where towering karst rock formations stretch as far as the eye can see.

With such picturesque scenery, slowing down and exploring by kayak is the perfect way to take it all in. Without the speed and noise of boats, you can glide at your own pace through mangrove forests, past secluded beaches, and through a maze of inlets and sea caves. Although anywhere in Raja Ampat will provide you with incredible views, Misool’s crystal-clear waters and jungle-covered islets make it the best place for a paddle. The seas are mostly calm and suitable for all skill levels, but if you’re looking for a challenge, then there are several places, such as Gam’s southern coast, that are more suited for experienced kayakers. If you’re not bringing your own kayak, Millekul Adventures offers trips of various lengths.

This resort offers a range of Papuan-style cottages on a pristine white beach in Waigeo, all with ensuite bathrooms, terraces, and daybeds. All the better for blissful days spent lounging in the tropical heat. Those keen on adventure can go on trips with the resort's dive centre or sign up for birdwatching tours and day trips. This resort is also strongly committed to sustainable travel – read about their efforts here. 

Located on a white sand beach surrounded by greenery on Kri Island, Kri Eco Resort offers several over-the-water cottages, some with ensuite bathrooms. The resort offers great access to the dive sites of the Dampier Strait, with trips led by its PADI instructors and guides. Don't dive? The resort also runs activities like stand-up paddleboarding, bird-watching, and snorkelling. 

If you don’t mind splashing out, Misool Eco Resort is the ultimate private island retreat with luxurious accommodation options. These range from Water Cottages built on stilts over crystal-clear water to villas built to blend organically into the forest. Located in the heart of the Misool Marine Reserve, the snorkelling and diving here is exceptional.

Set along a quiet, sandy cove, this homestay on Waigeo offers simple wooden shacks with shared bathrooms. Three meals a day are included. It's a no-frills place, but it more than makes up for it with privacy and stunning beachside views.