Raja Ampat Islands
The Raja Ampat Islands, which are more than 1500 islands off the coast of Sorong, are sparsely populated. Raja Ampat is without a doubt one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, with its sublime scenery of steep, jungle-covered islands, fine white-sand beaches, hidden lagoons, eerie caves, strange mushroom-shaped islets, and pellucid turquoise waters.
Obviously, there are numerous diving and snorkelling spots to choose from in these vast waters. The Kabui Passage (the very narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island crossed around by the famous British explorer, Alfred Russell Wallace in 1860), Arborek Island's Dock, Sawandarek, Yenbuba, and Friwen Wall are the best diving spots.
However, unadulterated beauty isn't the only thing that draws people here. Raja Ampat also has a plethora of wildlife, including a couple of species of birds of paradise that dance in the trees and a diversity of marine life and coral reef systems that are a diver's dream come true. Although diving is the most popular activity, kayaking and trekking are also enjoyable. Kayak through jungle-green limstone karsts or schlep through virgin rainforests to gaze out over landscapes that few will ever see.
- How to reach Raja Ampat Islands: Take a flight to Sorong and then take a ferry to Waisai in Raja Ampat Islands.
- Best time to visit Raja Ampat Islands: October-April
- Places to stay in Raja Ampat Islands: Papua Paradise Eco Resort and Kri Eco Resort
- Best restaurants in Raja Ampat Islands: Warung Cahaya Bone Waisai Raja Ampat, Warung Prasmanan Raja Ampat, and Rumah Makan Pondok Lesehan
- Location: West Papua, Indonesia
