Raja Ampat Secrets
In the heart of the Coral Triangle, the archipelago of four kings unveils its secret lagoons and exceptional marine biodiversity.
Duration
14 days
From
€2,595/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec
Style
Navigation & Cruises
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, Honeymoon, groupe
The spirit of travel
The Raja Ampat archipelago (which means "4 kings" in Indonesian) is located at the far east of Indonésie, and more specifically in the "Coral Triangle", named thus for the richness of its coral biodiversity. Some experts even affirm that the seas surrounding these remote islands contain perhaps the greatest diversity of coral species in the world!
This is the reason why UNESCO is considering listing Raja Ampat on its World Heritage list. This is also the reason why we invite you now to explore this fabulous archipelago at the end of the world, gently, before it is too late.
During this 14-day circuit, you will precisely stroll from island to island to meet the local population, who will share with you all the hidden secrets of this fabulous archipelago. In short, your trip will become a real immersion within a region renowned for its underwater depths, but still little known for its natural and social environment.
Note: Possibility of a 5-day extension to southern Raja Ampat (Misool and its surroundings). Please contact us for more information.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Raja Ampat
Morning reception at Sorong airport and transfer to the port of Sorong. Boarding the ferry, which connects Sorong to Waisai, departing around 9am (approximately 2 hours of sailing).
Transfer to your homestay, where you can enjoy the seaside.
Blue River
Early in the morning, you board a speed-boat, which takes you to explore the Mayalibit Strait and its surroundings. One of the attractions in this area is notably the famous "Kali Biru" (blue river), whose scarlet color and the purity of the water contrast with the green of the surrounding forest.
You will also meet the local populations, grouped in a few villages, and free time will be devoted to snorkeling moments to discover the magnificent underwater seabeds in the area.
Return to the homestay in late afternoon.
The "Passage"
Departure for a full day of speed-boat exploration, during which you will discover in particular Kabui Bay and its strait known as "The Passage". You will indeed cross what Alfred Russel Wallace described as "one of the most [...] picturesque landscapes I have ever seen...". To reach it, you head towards Gam Island, passing by a pearl factory. The most famous strait in West Papua is a narrow passage of water that separates the islands of Gam and Waigo, each side dominated by high limestone cliffs.
Resembling a river flowing between the two islands, the nutrient-rich waters that are swept at high speed by the tides harbor great marine biodiversity. The viewpoint is very panoramic and you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling around this special area which features strong currents and mangroves.
You will then stop at a small isolated jetty around Kabui. Later, you will enjoy a hidden bay for snorkeling above the corals. This bay is another of the jewels of Raja Ampat. You will access it through a long narrow canal dotted with coral reefs where small sharks swim. This canal then divides into a maze of rocky islands and side bays. You will then enjoy a magnificent and peaceful lagoon and you may even visit a cave where many bats live.
Possible stop at Pef to observe some rock paintings, before reaching Alyui Bay.
Wayag, the icon!
Early morning departure to explore the Raja Ampat icon: Wayag. Wayag is composed of small islands and its image now appears on the new 100,000 rupiah banknotes. This is to say that the archipelago is now considered one of Indonésie's national treasures. You will first head towards "Shark Point", where you will enjoy observing small sharks swimming between your legs. And, if you wish, there is the possibility of climbing 2 peaks (ascents intended for trekkers in excellent physical condition), in order to benefit from a fantastic panorama.
You will enjoy the swim all the more afterwards, in a warm and tranquil lagoon. Later, you will head towards a secret beach, located in the middle of the most beautiful lagoon you have ever seen!
Bivouac on the water's edge.
Eternal Piaynemo
Free morning to rest and enjoy one last time the true paradise surrounding you. Late morning, departure for Fam Island and its famous "wall", surrounded by soft coral. On the way, you stop at Piaynemo, where you can climb the stairs leading to the top of one of the region's karst peaks, from where you will have a breathtaking view.
Later, you head towards the famous "star lagoon", star-shaped. And, if weather conditions are favorable, you will be able to take a detour via "Lagoon Kecil", small lagoon facing Piaynemo with unique formations. Possibility to access the top of the cliffs by stairs and of course to snorkel in emerald-colored water. Possibility, then, to snorkel around the "Melissa Garden", before reaching Fam.
Immersion
The day is dedicated to meetings with local populations, who invite you to participate in their daily activities.
It is also an opportunity to visit an oil palm plantation and to enjoy some superb snorkeling spots.
Hidden Lagoon
Dance with the Manta Rays
The day is dedicated to snorkeling sessions around Arborek. You will head in particular towards the famous "Manta Ridge", where you will simply have the opportunity to "dance" with Manta rays!
In the afternoon, you continue your immersion in local culture.
Symbolic turtles
Morning departure to Kri Island, via a few superb snorkeling spots, including Sawandarek, where you can encounter reef sharks and, especially, swim alongside sea turtles, protected in Indonesia.
Symbols of longevity and stability, sea turtles are indeed important as they are regulators of the Raja Ampat ecosystem. At Kri, possibility to climb the hill that overlooks the island, in order to observe a magnificent sunset.
White sand strip
Rest in Paradise
Rest days on the beautiful white sandy beaches of Friwen Island. Meeting with the local population. Possibility of snorkeling/diving around the Friwen "wall".
See you very soon at the Raja Ampat
Morning transfer to Wasai port, where you board the ferry that takes you to Sorong.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International & domestic flights
- Insurance & Assistance
- Visas & possible airport taxes
- Beverages, personal expenses & tips
- Everything that is not mentioned in "Inclusions"
Included
- English-speaking guide
- Ground transfers in a private and air-conditioned vehicle
- Maritime transfers by ferry and speed-boat
- Full board accommodation in Raja Ampat
- Site entrances, trek permits and donations
- Mineral water
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns tourists entering Indonesia. Entry requirements may change, and we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities of your country of residence and with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before your departure.
Passport
To enter Indonesia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa exemption for tourist stays in Indonesia. Entry requirements vary by nationality and should be verified with the Indonesian embassy or consulate of your country of residence.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Formalities on arrival
Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival declaration via the official Indonesian customs and immigration portal (e-CD, Electronic Customs Declaration).
This form allows you to transmit to the authorities certain information necessary for entry into the territory:
passport information
flight details and itinerary
address of first accommodation in Indonesia
declaration of goods and currency carried
A confirmation QR code may be requested when passing through customs and immigration controls.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Indonesia, except in case of transit through a country at risk of yellow fever, in which case an international vaccination certificate may be required.
As a precaution, it is advisable to consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies are commonly recommended for stays in Indonesia. Antimalarial treatment may also be recommended depending on the regions visited (particularly outside Bali and major cities).
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to exit the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Entry requirements by nationality
Entry conditions vary depending on nationality. Travelers should consult the Indonesian embassy or consulate of their country of residence for specific requirements.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, find out about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the agreement detailing all coverage and the procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this agreement with them for the entire duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A Visa on Arrival (35 USD) is required upon arrival, valid for an initial stay and extendable once. You can also obtain an e-VOA online before departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Before booking, check the conditions applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailored trip, plan between 140 and 230 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. The archipelago allows you to combine beaches, volcanoes, jungle and culture at attractive rates.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each circuit to the travelers' profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you get the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Papua Raja Ampat
Photographer of Indonesian volcanoes and trails, based in Yogyakarta
Before drawing up an itinerary, you have to observe, walk, listen to the locals and understand the place. Only then can an adventure trip remain authentic.
— Dominic
