Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat is located off the northwest tip of Bird's Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea, in Indonesia's West Papua province. It is an archipelago comprising over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo, and the smaller island of Kofiau.

Raja Ampat is ranked as one of the top ten most popular places for diving whilst it retains the number one ranking in terms of underwater biodiversity. For diving enthusiasts the favorite destination is usually South Waigeo. But while you are here, why not take the chance to visit Kabui Bay with many karst islands, goa tengkorak (cave of skulls), and the historical sites of Raja Ampat in Kali Raja. You can see a variety of birds in Yenwaupnor and Sawinggrai village, the Salay dance in Saonek, and plaited handicrafts in Arborek. In Arborek, visitors can dive and watch groups of stingrays. In Sawandarek, there's a white sand beach with sea ducks and beautiful corals. In addition, there is a traditional village where you can walk around in and enjoy the unique slow paced atmosphere.

Things to see and do

* Beaches
* Diving & snorkelling
* Sailing & kayaking
* Explore the islands
* The historical sites of Raja Ampat in Kali Raja

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Rupiah (IDR)
Language – Ambonese Malay
Electricity – 2 angled flat pins and 1 round pin centred below Australian style
Time – GMT plus seven hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 62

Travel Links - Although accessing the islands is not that difficult, it takes some time. It takes six hours flight from Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia to Sorong. Then, taking boat to reach the islands is necessary. Domestic travelers can also fly via Makassar or Manado.