Raja Ampat is a hidden gem located in Southwest Papua, Indonesia. This island is often described as the last paradise on Earth. It is known for its stunning landscapes and rich marine life, which attract travelers from around the world. If you want to visit Raja Ampat from Australia, you need to plan ahead and be prepared for the long haul.
Where is Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on Papua, the easternmost island of the Indonesian archipelago. Raja Ampat, which means “The Four Kings” in local languages, is an archipelago comprising more than 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool.
Nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat is home to a rich underwater ecosystem, making it a top destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. This island also offers stunning landscapes and the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Thus, it is definitely worth visiting and exploring Raja Ampat.
Entry Permits Raja Ampat
If you plan to travel to Raja Ampat, you must register for an entry permit to explore and experience the place. You can purchase the marine park entry card, also known as the “kartu TLPJL,” from the Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority office in Waisai.
The term for the Marine Park Entry Fee, also known as the TLPJL Card, includes the following conditions:
- International visitors: IDR 700,000 (AUD 68.21)
- Indonesian citizens: IDR 425,000 (AUD 26.95)
- Children under 12 years old do not require a permit
- All permits are valid for 12 months of the date of purchase
Read More: Must Know! 5 Tips for Booking Your Boat Tour
From Australia to Raja Ampat
The approximate distance from Australia to Raja Ampat is around 3,000 to 4,000 kilometers, depending on your starting point. Besides that, the time difference between Australia and Raja Ampat, Indonesia, can vary because Australia spans multiple time zones and observes daylight saving time in several regions. In contrast, Indonesia does not observe daylight saving time.
Raja Ampat is in the Eastern Indonesia Time Zone (WIT), which is UTC+9. Australia has several time zones ranging from UTC+8 (Australian Western Standard Time) to UTC+10:30 (Australian Central Daylight Time) and UTC+11 (Australian Eastern Daylight Time), depending on the time of year and the state.
Given the distance and time difference, flying from Australia is the best way to get to Raja Ampat. Due to its remoteness, getting to Raja Ampat requires several steps, including flying to Indonesia, taking a domestic flight, and taking a boat to Raja Ampat.
1. Take a Flight to Raja Ampat from Australia
Although the best way to reach the island is by air, there are currently no direct flights from Australia to Raja Ampat. You must get to Sorong, Southwest Papua, Indonesia, to start your adventure.
Several airlines operate flights from Australia to Sorong, including two to three stops. Here are some flight options you can choose from.
A. Sydney [SYD] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] with Batik Air + Lion Air
- Outbound flight: Depart from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport at 06:55 AM and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok at 06:10 AM a day later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes around 24 hours and 15 minutes, including two stops at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport [DPS], and Makassar Hasanuddin Airport [UPG]
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you around AUD 675.02
B. Perth [PER] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] with AirAsia Indonesia + Batik Air
- Outbound flight: Depart from Perth Airport at 01:40 AM and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok at 06:40 AM a day later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes around 28 hours, including one stop at Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Airport [CGK].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you around AUD 522.37
C. Melbourne [MEL] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] with Scoot + Garuda Indonesia
- Outbound flight: Depart from Melbourne Airport at 09:20 PM and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok two days later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes around 33 hours and 55 minutes, including three stops at Singapore Changi [SIN], Surabaya Juanda [SUB], and Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Airport [CGK].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you around AUD 583.73
2. Boat Trip to Raja Ampat
Upon arriving in Domine Eduard Osok, Sorong, you must continue your journey to Waisai. Waisai is the capital city of Raja Ampat and the main transit point for travelers exploring its beauty.
You can take a taxi from the airport to the port, which takes 10-20 minutes. The cost is approximately IDR 100,000 or SGD 8.60. Then, from the port, you have several transportation choices.
1. Ferry
Public ferries are the most popular mode of transportation between Sorong and Waisai. They are less speedy but more budget-friendly. Ferries run twice daily: on weekdays at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM and on Saturdays at 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM. The trip takes approximately two to three hours.
2. Speedboat
Speedboats are faster but more expensive than public ferries. Those seeking a more direct and immediate route prefer this option. Although speedboats are known for their speed, their availability in Sorong port is limited.
3. Raja Ampat Liveaboard
The above route is usually used by people who intend to visit Raja Ampat’s capital city for daily activities. You should join the Raja Ampat tour package well before visiting the popular tourist destinations.
Before traveling to Raja Ampat, make sure you know which destinations you will visit and how long you will stay. Consider organizing a Raja Ampat tour package from a reputable tour operator, such as Komodo Luxury. If you’re unsure, we can provide a recommended itinerary Raja Ampat for you.
Raja Ampat Tour 7D6N
Explore Raja Ampat on our 7 days 6 nights Raja Ampat itinerary. In just one week, you can experience Raja Ampat’s beauty and diversity. A diverse range of water sports will be available to you as you explore world-class dive sites and marvel at stunning landscapes.
Day 1: Sorong to Dampier Strait
You will begin your journey from Sorong to the Dampier Strait. Enjoy lunch on board, participate in water activities like kayaking and snorkeling, and have a delightful dinner.
Day 2: Explore the Kri Peninsula
Enjoy a day of snorkeling or paddling in the crystal-clear waters of the Kri Peninsula. Visit world-class dive sites like Sardine Reef, Mike’s Point, and Cape Kri for diving or snorkeling.
Days 3 & 4: Visit Wayag Island
Discover Wayag Island, an iconic spot in Raja Ampat. Witness the stunning view of the islands surrounded by the blue ocean from Wayag’s summit. On its white sand beaches, you can enjoy peaceful moments.
Day 5: Explore Gam Island
See the rare Red Bird of Paradise on Gam Island. There is a chance that you will be able to swim with stingless jellyfish in Kabui Bay if you are lucky.
Day 6: Dampier Strait and Arborek Village
Visit Arborek Village to experience local life and swim with manta rays in the Dampier Strait.
Day 7: Return to Sorong
Sorong awaits after exploring Batanta
Raja Ampat Tour 9D8N
With 9 days and 8 nights Raja Ampat itinerary, you can discover the wonders of Raja Ampat in depth. Experience the natural beauty of the region and the marine life up close in this extended itinerary.
Day 1: Sorong to Waisai
Start your diving adventure from Sorong to Waisai.
Day 2: Central Dampier Strait
The Blue Magic dive and snorkel site in Central Dampier Strait is home to majestic oceanic manta rays. You can dive at sites such as Cape Kri and Yenbuba Jetty.
Day 3: Melissa Garden Dive Site
Experience the vibrant coral reefs of Melissa Garden when you dive there. The summit of Piaynemo offers an iconic view. Don’t miss it.
Day 4: Batanta Island
Find out what Batanta Island has to offer. Snorkel and dive here, and possibly see manta rays.
Day 5: Misool Island
Misool Island, one of the four main islands, is a great exploring place. Oceanic Manta Rays, Giant Trevally, Napoleon Wrasse, and more marine life await you on your dive.
Day 6: Boo Window and Anchovy Dive Sites
Visit Boo Window and Anchovy sites to see schools of Mobula Rays darting through anchovies.
Day 7: Whale Rock and Tank Rock
Dive at Whale Rock and Tank Rock, which are filled with beautiful soft corals and schools of fish.
Day 8: Andiamo Dive Site
Andiamo is a spectacular dive site in southern Raja Ampat. There are Pygmy Seahorses, Giant Trevallies, and Barracudas to be seen.
Day 9: Return to Sorong
Our adventure ends at 5:00 AM when we anchor in Sorong. It’s up to you whether you want to catch your flight or stay in a hotel.
Raja Ampat Tour 11D10N
A comprehensive 11 days and 10 nights Raja Ampat itinerary will provide you with the best experience and make your stay even more memorable. Discover the rich biodiversity of Raja Ampat by visiting more destinations and diving deeper into the marine wonders.
Day 1: Sorong to Misool
Explore the iconic Raja Ampat island of Misool from Sorong.
Day 2: Fiabacet Dive Site
In southeast Misool, you can dive at Fiabacet, one of the most stunning dive sites in the world.
Day 3: Love Lagoon
Visit Love Lagoon to see the heart-shaped lagoon surrounded by coral reefs.
Day 4: Misool’s Scenic Views
Explore Misool’s maze of towering rocks, cliffs, and hidden lagoons.
Day 5: Melissa’s Garden Dive Site
Experience a kaleidoscope of colorful coral reefs teeming with life at Melissa’s Garden.
Day 6: Wayag Island
You can explore pristine white beaches and mushroom-shaped islets on Wayag Island.
Day 7: Yanggefo Mangroves
Among the lush mangroves of Yanggefo, you’ll find crystal-clear waters contrasting with vibrant forests.
Day 8: Arborek Village
Visit Arborek Village, known for its friendly locals, and explore dive sites like Manta Sandy and Sauwandarek Jetty.
Day 9: Red Bird of Paradise
Explore a World War II plane wreck underwater or swim with manta rays to see the rare Red Bird of Paradise.
Day 10: Kali Biru
Visit Kali Biru for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear freshwater, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Day 11: Return to Sorong
Once breakfast has been served, return to Sorong for farewell. Our team will safely escort you to the airport or your hotel.
Personalized Raja Ampat Tour
Furthermore, Komodo Luxury offers fully customized Raja Ampat tour packages tailored to your preferences and needs. Whatever your needs in Raja Ampat are, we can cater to them. Whether it’s snorkeling, diving, your honeymoon, or spending time with family and friends, we can make it special. We will prepare the best journey for you based on your wishes. Just let us know what you’re looking for, and our tour specialists will help you plan it.
Read More: Paradise Gateway: From Sorong to Raja Ampat
