Going from the UK to Raja Ampat is like entering a mesmerizing paradise. It feels like you have left behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life and stepped into a serene and beautiful world where you can truly relax and unwind.
If you’re in the UK and itching to explore this paradise, here is your detailed guide on how to get to Raja Ampat from the UK to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Where is Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is situated off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula on Papua, the most eastern island of the Indonesian Archipelago. This island is about as far east as you can go in the Indonesian archipelago.
As a part of Indonesia’s Southwest Papua, Raja Ampat comprises around 1,500 islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo, plus the smaller island of Kofiau.
Raja Ampat is world-renowned for its breathtaking underwater scenery and rich marine biodiversity because it is situated in the middle of the Coral Triangle. You can enjoy diving into the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs, kayaking around the tranquil bays, or just relaxing on the beach and immersing yourself in the serene beauty of your surroundings.
Read More Unveiling Raja Ampat: 6 Best Place Snorkeling in Raja Ampat
From the UK to Raja Ampat
Due to its remoteness, getting to Raja Ampat from the UK involves several steps. These include flying to Indonesia, domestic flights, and boat tours. Having a clear understanding of the steps required to reach your destination is essential. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive insight into how to get to Raja Ampat from the UK as you need it.
1. Take a Flight to Raja Ampat
The distance from the UK to Raja Ampat, Indonesia, is approximately 7,500 miles (approximately 12,070 kilometers). This figure may vary slightly depending on your starting point in the UK and the specific island in Raja Ampat you’re traveling to.
Thus, the first leg of your journey to Raja Ampat is flying from the UK to Indonesia. There are no direct flights to Raja Ampat, so you will aim to reach the nearest airport, Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong, Southwest Papua. Here are the flight options you can choose from!
A. London Heathrow Airport [LHR] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] with Qatar Airways + Lion Air
- Outbound flight: Depart from Heathrow Airport at 16:50 and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok Airport at 06:10 two days later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes 29 hours and 20 minutes, including two stopovers at Dubai [DXB] and Jakarta Soekarno Hatta [CGK].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you approximately USD 1,038.47
B. London Gatwick Airport [LGW] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] with Qatar Airways + Lion Air
- Outbound flight: Depart from Gatwick Airport at 14:55 and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok Airport at 06:10 two days later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes 31 hours and 15 minutes, including two stopovers at Doha Hamad [DOH] and Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Airport [CGK].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you approximately USD 905.10
Read More How to Get to Komodo Island from the UK
2. Boat Tour to Raja Ampat
Once you’ve arrived in Sorong, you must connect your journey to Waisai, the capital of the Raja Ampat Regency. Waisai is a town in the south of Waigeo on Raja Ampat Island. It is the main hub for exploring the island.
From Domine Eduard Osok Airport, you can take a taxi to get to Sorong Harbor, which will take around 10 to 20 minutes. You have two primary transportation choices in Sorong Harbor for getting to Waisai.
1. Ferry
The most common way to get to Waisai is by taking the public ferry. Opting for this option provides a less expensive route, albeit at a slower pace. The public ferry commonly cruises twice daily on weekdays at 09:00 and 14:00 and on Saturdays at 09:00 and 12:00.
2. Speedboat
Another option to get to Waisai is to take the speedboat. This option allows for quicker travel to Waisai, though it is more expensive than the public ferry.
After about two to three hours of cruising, you will arrive at Waisai Harbour. The final leg of your journey begins here.
Note! The travel tour above is commonly used for people who intend to visit the capital city of Raja Ampat for their daily activities. However, if you’re planning to explore the popular tourist destinations spots in Raja Ampat island, such as Wayag and Piaynemo, we recommend you book a Raja Ampat tour package because it’s the best way to explore Raja Ampat.
Ensure you book your Raja Ampat tour package from a reputable tour operator such as Komodo Luxury. A boat tour to Raja Ampat by Komodo Luxury allows you to explore the stunning islands by liveboard on a luxury cruise. These packages can offer a convenient and comfortable solution for your Raja Ampat trip.
Read More Must Know!: 5 Tips for Booking Your Boat Tour
Entry Permits Raja Ampat
To visit Raja Ampat, all travelers must obtain an entry permit, commonly known as “Kartu TLPJL”. This is part of an effort to protect the region and ensure that tourism contributes positively to the conservation of its unique ecosystems and marine biodiversity.
The term for the Marine Park Entry Fee includes the following conditions:
- International visitors: IDR 700,000 (USD 44.96)
- Indonesian citizens: IDR 425,000 (USD 27.30)
- Children under 12 years old do not require a permit.
- All permits are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Ready to dive into the adventure of a lifetime? Take your chance to explore the breathtaking beauty of Raja Ampat with Komodo Luxury. With our exclusive boat tours, you will discover an untouched paradise and dive into the crystal-clear water to relax in the serene beauty surrounding you! Book your seat on this unforgettable journey today, and let Komodo Luxury turn your dream vacation into reality!
