Discover The Top Things to See and Do in Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Source: www.indonesia.travel
Raja Ampat is an exotic tropical paradise worthy of worldwide publicity. This island covers approximately 75% of the world’s coral species and thousands of other fish, mollusks, plants, and birds in the depths of crystal clear waters, calm lagoons between karst constellations, and picturesque hills and jungles. Explore the best sights and activities in Raja Ampat, Indonesia. Here are the lists of recommended activities while you are in Raja Ampat!
1. Explore Waisai
The first thing: You fly to Raja Ampat for a tropical ocean adventure, which is exactly what you can do from the moment you arrive. The outer fortress is the gateway to paradise and the main hub of the entire archipelago. But it offers more than just busy ports, ships move from one side of more than 1,000 islands to the other. There are several diving and sightseeing places outside the Fortress, including the translucent Waiwo, a beach that gained fame because of its appearance on President Joko Widodo’s Instagram account.
2. Tours and more activities on Pianemo Island
When enthusiastic travelers hear Raja Ampat’s name, they may think of small islands scattered in the clear blue ocean. There is a hilltop viewing platform on Pianemo Island, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the sea and islands. Although the scenery is enough for you to visit Pianemo Island, you can enjoy other incredible activities here, jumping off the cliff into the turquoise lagoon between the islands and swimming in the clear water.
3. Take a diving course
Whether you are an advanced diver or an absolute beginner, taking a diving course in Raja Ampat is an opportunity not to be missed. You will have the stunning underwater scenery of Raja Ampat as your training ground, and you will go home with a legal certificate. PADI and SSI, the two largest diving certification companies in the world, are set up in this diving paradise so that you can control them all. In addition, taking the course will help you better appreciate the unparalleled underwater beauty of Raja Ampat.
4. Observe the wild animals in the forest
Not that you will never get tired of the water adventures of Raja Ampat, but the land of its many islands also offers wonderful scenery and wildlife encounters. The pristine Raja Ampat is home to many endemic species, including rare plants and exotic birds. The highlight of bird watching in the forests of Raja Ampat is the delicate bird of paradise.
5. Don’t miss a sunset (or sunrise!)
There are many different places to watch the sunrise or sunset. Walk up a hill and relax by your hut, or sit on the soft white sand and wait for the sun to burst out with many shades of red and orange. Good reason to skip the nap button in Raja Ampat and get up early.
6. Visit the Wayag Islands
The Wayag Islands are located in Raja Ampat, with pristine natural beauty. Many people think that Wayag is the most beautiful place in Raja Ampat. It has picturesque karst formations, including some large walkable bumps, and offers unobstructed views of the fascinating islands. The green of the island meets the calm blue and emerald waters. Underwater, colorful fish swim in the beautiful coral reef.
7. Swim with marine life
The people of Papua have high regard for marine life, so visitors can also enjoy a peaceful and productive coexistence. In Missul Island and Manta Ridge, you are almost guaranteed to meet dolphins and other fish. Turtles are more common, and deeper dives will allow you to see many manta rays.
8. Wander through the village
Don’t leave the island until you go through the village and meet friendly locals. Their lifestyle is simple and the people are cheerful. You can see children playing traditional games, a group of people singing traditional songs and dancing, or local artists making their handicrafts.
9. Souvenir shopping
Raja Ampat culture is as beautiful as its nature. You can buy local handicrafts like accessories, bags, plates, and other souvenirs. Buying souvenirs at the local market allows you to take home authentic things and helps to sustain the lives of the locals and the entire tourist iscene.
10. Local Food Party
Complete your Raja Ampat experience with delicious local food. Fresh seafood is plentiful, papeda (sago starch porridge) and salty yellow fish soup are popular in Papua. If you are not adventurous, you can always order grilled fish with spicy seasoning. Larger cities may also have restaurants serving other Indonesian specialties.
Whether your trips take you on a long stroll on beaches, delicious cuisines, relaxing spas, and resorts or urban attractions, extra research will give you the best experience for your visit. Get to know more about Raja Ampat by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.