7-Day Adventure with Friends in Raja Ampat: Nature and Nightlife
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
7 days
About Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Discover the unspoiled paradise of Raja Ampat, Indonesia, a world-class diving destination. This archipelago of over 1,500 small islands boasts pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Explore the lush jungles, visit traditional Papuan villages, or simply relax on the secluded beaches. The biodiversity here is unparalleled, making it a haven for snorkeling and bird-watching enthusiasts. Raja Ampat offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or a tranquility seeker, Raja Ampat is a perfect getaway. Experience the untouched beauty of Indonesia with us.
7-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Visiting Pasir Timbul Beach and Sawinggrai Village
Morning
Start the day with a visit to the Pasir Timbul Beach. This beach only appears during low tide and is a perfect spot for taking photos.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local homestay. The host will prepare a meal with fresh local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Sawinggrai Village. Here, you can see the famous bird of paradise in its natural habitat.
Dinner
Enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner. The local tour operator will prepare a variety of seafood dishes.
Evening
Spend the evening enjoying a traditional dance performance by the villagers.
Day 3
Adventures in Wayag Islands
Morning
Start the day with a visit to the Wayag Islands. These islands are famous for their unique karst formations and crystal clear waters.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. The local tour operator will prepare a delicious meal with fresh local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon snorkeling around the Wayag Islands. The coral reefs here are home to a variety of marine life.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local homestay. The meal will be prepared by the host, giving you a chance to taste authentic Indonesian cuisine.
Evening
Spend the evening stargazing. Raja Ampat has minimal light pollution, making it a perfect place for stargazing.
Day 4
Discovering Misool Island and Harfat Jaya Village
Morning
Start the day with a visit to the Misool Island. This island is known for its ancient rock paintings.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local homestay. The host will prepare a meal with fresh local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Harfat Jaya Village. Here, you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
Dinner
Enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner. The local tour operator will prepare a variety of seafood dishes.
Evening
Spend the evening enjoying a traditional dance performance by the villagers.
Day 5
Exploring Batanta Island and Hiking to Sumpah Waterfall
Morning
Start the day with a visit to the Batanta Island. This island is known for its waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. The local tour operator will prepare a delicious meal with fresh local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon hiking to the Sumpah Waterfall. The hike is challenging but the view from the top is worth it.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local homestay. The meal will be prepared by the host, giving you a chance to taste authentic Indonesian cuisine.
Evening
Spend the evening stargazing. Raja Ampat has minimal light pollution, making it a perfect place for stargazing.
Day 6
Snorkeling in Salawati Island and Exploring Kri Island
Morning
Start the day with a visit to the Salawati Island. This island is known for its diverse marine life and is a perfect spot for snorkeling.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local homestay. The host will prepare a meal with fresh local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Kri Island. This island is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
Dinner
Enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner. The local tour operator will prepare a variety of seafood dishes.
Evening
Spend the evening enjoying a traditional dance performance by the villagers.
Day 7
Exploring Waisai City and Visiting Raja Ampat Research and Conservation Centre
Morning
Spend the morning exploring the Waisai City. This city is the capital of Raja Ampat and is known for its local markets.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery. Try the local delicacies like Papeda and Ikan Bakar.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon visiting the Raja Ampat Research and Conservation Centre. Here, you can learn about the local flora and fauna.
Dinner
Have your farewell dinner at a local homestay. The host will prepare a special meal to celebrate the end of your journey.
Evening
Spend your last evening in Raja Ampat stargazing. This is a perfect way to end your adventure in this beautiful archipelago.
Attractions in Itinerary (13)
1Pianemo Islands
The Pianemo Islands are a group of small, picturesque islands in Raja Ampat, known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
2Arborek Village
A small, traditional village known for its friendly locals and beautiful handcrafted souvenirs.
3Pasir Timbul Beach
A unique sandbar beach that appears only at low tide, offering a unique beach experience.
4Sawinggrai Village
Famous for its bird watching activity, Sawinggrai Village offers a unique cultural experience.
5Wayag Islands
Known for its iconic karst formations, pristine beaches, and rich marine biodiversity.
6Misool Island
Misool Island is a paradise for nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts. It is one of the four major islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago, known for its pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and abundant marine life.
7Harfat Jaya Village
Harfat Jaya Village is a traditional Papuan village located in Raja Ampat. It offers a unique cultural experience, with opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about their customs and traditions.
8Batanta Island
Batanta Island is one of the four major islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse marine life.
9Sumpah Waterfall
Sumpah Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction located on Batanta Island in Raja Ampat. It offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat, with opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
10Salawati Island
Salawati Island is one of the four major islands in the Raja Ampat archipelago. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse marine life.
11Kri Island
A beautiful island with white sandy beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
12Waisai City
Waisai City is the capital of the Raja Ampat Regency in West Papua, Indonesia. It is a bustling city with a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and accommodation options.
13Raja Ampat Research and Conservation Centre
A center dedicated to the research and conservation of Raja Ampat's unique biodiversity.
Local Food and Drinks (11)
Papeda
A staple food of Raja Ampat, Papeda is a sago porridge served with fish soup. It has a unique, sticky texture and is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
Ikan Bakar
Ikan Bakar is a popular grilled fish dish in Raja Ampat. The fish is marinated in a mixture of spices and then grilled to perfection. It's a common dish in coastal areas of Indonesia.
Sayur Asem
Sayur Asem is a traditional vegetable soup from Raja Ampat. It's sour and refreshing, made with tamarind, vegetables, and sometimes, meat.
Kolak
Kolak is a sweet dessert soup, made from banana, palm sugar, and coconut milk. It's a popular dessert in Raja Ampat, especially during the fasting month of Ramadan.
Es Cendol
Es Cendol is a traditional Indonesian drink made from rice flour, palm sugar, and coconut milk. It's a refreshing drink, perfect for the tropical climate of Raja Ampat.
Es Kelapa Muda
Es Kelapa Muda is a refreshing drink made from young coconut water, often served with the coconut meat. It's a popular drink in Raja Ampat, perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat.
Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng, or fried rice, is a popular dish throughout Indonesia, including Raja Ampat. It's typically made with rice, vegetables, and a variety of meats or seafood.
Satay
Satay is a popular Indonesian dish of skewered and grilled meats, served with a peanut sauce. In Raja Ampat, you can find a variety of satay, including fish and chicken.
Rendang
Rendang is a spicy meat dish that originated from the Minangkabau ethnic group of Indonesia. It's popular throughout the country, including Raja Ampat.
Es Teh Manis
Es Teh Manis is a sweet iced tea that is a common drink in Raja Ampat and throughout Indonesia. It's a perfect refreshing drink for the tropical climate.
Es Teler
Es Teler is a fruit cocktail made from avocado, coconut meat, jackfruit, condensed milk, and syrup. It's a popular dessert drink in Raja Ampat and throughout Indonesia.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Raja Ampat, Indonesia is between October and April. This period is considered the dry season, with less rainfall and more sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as diving, snorkeling, and exploring the islands. The sea conditions are also typically calmer during these months, which is perfect for boat trips. However, it's worth noting that Raja Ampat has a tropical climate, so occasional rain showers can be expected even in the dry season.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 8 | Thu | Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad |
February 9 | Fri | Lunar New Year Joint Holiday |
February 10 | Sat | Lunar New Year's Day |
March 11 | Mon | Bali's Day of Silence and Hindu New Year (Nyepi) |
March 12 | Tue | Joint Holiday for Bali's Day of Silence and Hindu New Year (Nyepi) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 8 | Mon | Idul Fitri Joint Holiday |
April 9 | Tue | Idul Fitri Joint Holiday |
April 10 | Wed | Idul Fitri |
April 11 | Thu | Idul Fitri Holiday |
April 12 | Fri | Idul Fitri Joint Holiday |
April 15 | Mon | Idul Fitri Joint Holiday |
May 1 | Wed | International Labor Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day of Jesus Christ |
May 10 | Fri | Joint Holiday after Ascension Day |
May 23 | Thu | Waisak Day (Buddha's Anniversary) |
May 24 | Fri | Joint Holiday for Waisak Day |
June 1 | Sat | Pancasila Day |
June 17 | Mon | Idul Adha |
June 18 | Tue | Joint Holiday for Idul Adha |
July 7 | Sun | Muharram / Islamic New Year |
August 17 | Sat | Indonesian Independence Day |
September 15 | Sun | Maulid Nabi Muhammad (The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Air Travel
To get to Raja Ampat, you'll first need to fly to Sorong's Domine Eduard Osok Airport from Jakarta, Bali, or another major Indonesian city. From Sorong, you'll take a smaller plane or ferry to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat.
Ferry
Once you've arrived in Sorong, you can take a public ferry to Waisai. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours. Ferries usually run twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon.
Speed Boat
For a faster and more convenient option, you can charter a speed boat from Sorong to Waisai. The trip takes about 1.5 hours. Speed boats can be arranged by your hotel or resort.
Local Boat
Once you're in Waisai, you can use local boats to get around to different islands in Raja Ampat. These boats are typically small, wooden boats operated by locals. They're a great way to experience the local culture and see the islands at a slower pace.
Scuba Diving Boat
If you're planning on doing a lot of diving, you might want to consider booking a liveaboard scuba diving boat. These boats will take you to various dive sites around Raja Ampat and provide accommodation and meals onboard.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services are not commonly used in Raja Ampat due to its remote location and the predominance of boat travel. However, in larger towns like Sorong, you may be able to use a ridesharing app for short trips.
Foot
Many of the islands in Raja Ampat are small enough to explore on foot. Walking allows you to take in the stunning natural beauty at your own pace and is a great way to get around once you're on an island.
Important information
CurrencyRp IDR
Time zoneUTC+7
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 118; Fire: 113; Police: 110
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Raja Ampat, Indonesia as a first time visitor
1
Raja Ampat is located in the Coral Triangle, the heart of the world's coral reef biodiversity.
2
The official language is Indonesian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
3
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of resorts, so carry cash.
4
Raja Ampat is in the Eastern Indonesia Time zone, which is UTC +9.
5
The climate is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 89°F (25°C to 32°C) year-round.
6
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from October to April.
7
Raja Ampat is a marine protected area. Respect the environment and do not touch or disturb the wildlife.
8
Healthcare facilities are limited. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
9
Malaria is prevalent in Raja Ampat. Take preventative measures such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.
10
There are no ATMs on most islands. Withdraw cash before you arrive.
11
Internet access can be limited and slow. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity.
12
Raja Ampat is a popular destination for scuba diving. Ensure you have the appropriate certifications if you plan to dive.
13
The water is safe to swim in, but avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is widely available.
14
Local customs and traditions are important. Dress modestly and respect local culture.
15
Transportation between islands is typically by boat. Sea conditions can be rough, so if you're prone to seasickness, come prepared.
16
Indonesia uses the type C and F electrical plug types. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
17
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.
18
Raja Ampat is not a budget destination. Accommodation, food, and activities can be expensive.
19
There are no large supermarkets on the islands. Stock up on essentials before you arrive.
20
Emergency numbers in Indonesia are 110 for police, 118 for ambulance, and 113 for fire.
Basic Indonesian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Halo | Ha-lo | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Selamat tinggal | Se-la-mat ting-gal | Leaving a place or person |
Please | Tolong | To-long | Asking for a favor |
Thank you | Terima kasih | Te-ri-ma ka-sih | Expressing gratitude |
You're welcome | Sama-sama | Sa-ma sa-ma | Responding to 'Thank you' |
Excuse me | Permisi | Per-mi-si | Getting someone's attention |
I'm sorry | Maaf | Ma-af | Apologizing |
Yes | Ya | Ya | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Tidak | Ti-dak | Disagreeing or denying |
I don't understand | Saya tidak mengerti | Sa-ya ti-dak men-ger-ti | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | Apakah anda berbicara bahasa Inggris? | A-pa-kah an-da ber-bi-ca-ra ba-ha-sa Ing-gris | Asking if someone speaks English |
How much is this? | Berapa ini? | Be-ra-pa i-ni | Asking for the price of something |
Where is the bathroom? | Di mana kamar kecil? | Di ma-na ka-mar ke-cil | Looking for the bathroom |
I need help | Saya butuh bantuan | Sa-ya bu-tuh ban-tu-an | When you need assistance |
Can I have the menu, please? | Bisa saya lihat menu, tolong? | Bi-sa sa-ya li-hat me-nu, to-long | Asking for the menu in a restaurant |
I would like to order | Saya ingin pesan | Sa-ya in-gin pe-san | Ordering food or drink |
Water | Air | Air | Asking for water |
Beer | Bir | Bir | Ordering a beer |
Cheers | Tos | Tos | Making a toast |
Good night | Selamat malam | Se-la-mat ma-lam | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Water shoes
Sunglasses
Hat
Rain jacket
Underwear
Socks
Sandals
Shorts
T-shirts
Long sleeve shirts
Pajamas
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Hand sanitizer
Tissues
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and flight information
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger
Power bank
Camera
Memory cards
Headphones
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Snorkeling gear
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Travel guide and map
Dry bag
Weather Conditions
Raja Ampat, Indonesia, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to plan your trip accordingly. The region experiences a tropical climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C) throughout the year. The warmest months are usually May, June, and September. Despite the heat, a light rain jacket is a must-have item in your luggage as rainfall can occur at any time of the year. The wet season in Raja Ampat runs from June to September, with the heaviest rainfall usually in July and August. If you're planning to dive or snorkel, it's best to avoid these months as the visibility can be reduced due to the rain and wind. The dry season, from October to April, is the best time to visit Raja Ampat for outdoor activities. The sea is calmer, making it ideal for diving, snorkeling, and boating. However, even during the dry season, occasional rain showers can occur, so it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast regularly. Remember, the sun can be intense in this tropical region, so don't forget to pack sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade whenever possible. Lastly, it's worth noting that weather conditions can change rapidly in Raja Ampat. Therefore, flexibility in your travel plans can help you make the most of your visit, regardless of the weather.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 32° / 24° | January is the start of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers. However, it's still warm with temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. |
February | 32° / 24° | February continues the rainy season, with high humidity and occasional showers. The temperature remains warm, ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. |
March | 32° / 24° | March marks the end of the rainy season, with less frequent showers. The temperature remains consistent, ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. |
April | 33° / 24° | April is the start of the dry season, with less humidity and fewer showers. The temperature starts to rise slightly, ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. |
May | 33° / 24° | May continues the dry season, with clear skies and less humidity. The temperature remains warm, ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. |
June | 33° / 24° | June is a great time to visit Raja Ampat, with clear skies and warm temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. It's perfect for outdoor activities and water sports. |
July | 33° / 24° | July is one of the driest months in Raja Ampat, with clear skies and warm temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. It's an ideal time for snorkeling and diving. |
August | 33° / 24° | August continues the dry season, with clear skies and warm temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for exploring the islands and wildlife. |
September | 33° / 24° | September is the end of the dry season, with slightly increasing humidity. However, the temperature remains warm, ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. |
October | 32° / 24° | October marks the start of the rainy season, with increasing humidity and showers. The temperature drops slightly, ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. |
November | 32° / 24° | November continues the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers. The temperature remains consistent, ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. |
December | 32° / 24° | December is the peak of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers. However, it's still warm with temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. |
Did you know?
Places near by Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Sorong
The gateway to Raja Ampat, known for its bustling markets and vibrant local culture.
Waisai
The capital of Raja Ampat Regency, offering a glimpse into local life and culture.
Manokwari
A city known for its beautiful beaches and rich history.
Jayapura
The capital and largest city of Papua, known for its beautiful landscapes and cultural heritage.
Makassar
A bustling city known for its historical sites and culinary delights.
Jakarta
The capital of Indonesia, known for its bustling city life and rich cultural heritage.
