Snorkeling in the secret lagoons of Raja Ampat
In summary
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Sports
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Duration14 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationIndonesia / Raja Ampat
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions325.49 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
In a few words
Discover Raja Ampat , a pristine gem located in eastern Indonesia, in the heart of the Coral Triangle , renowned for harboring the greatest marine biodiversity on the planet. This 14-day group tour takes you island-hopping, immersing you in lush nature and welcoming people proud of their traditions.
This journey stands out for its authentic and immersive approach. You will explore remote villages, sail between emerald lagoons, and stop at deserted beaches, all while discovering a preserved island way of life. Each encounter, each landscape, will bring you closer to a still little-known archipelago, where life moves at the rhythm of the sea.
Between snorkeling in exceptional coral reefs , coastal walks, and moments shared with the locals, this trip offers a gentle immersion in a fragile paradise, now threatened by mass tourism. It's the perfect time to explore these remote lands, respecting their unique ecosystem and local cultures .
The highlights
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Exploring a unique archipelago in the heart of the Coral Triangle, a cradle of biodiversity
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Meet the islanders and immerse yourself in authentic local life.
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Discover Raja Ampat, a natural treasure in the process of being listed as a world heritage site
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Snorkeling
- Average duration/day: 2h30
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 1h30
Management
Program
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Welcome to Raja Ampat
- Transportation Ferry - 02h30 - 60km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early morning pick-up at Sorong Airport and transfer to Sorong Port. Board the ferry, which connects Sorong to Waisai, departing around 9:00 AM (approximately a 2-hour crossing). Transfer to your homestay, where you can enjoy the seaside.
Day 1 -
Blue River
- Transportation Boat - 02h30 - 45km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, you'll board a speedboat to explore the Mayalibit Strait and its surroundings. One of the area's highlights is the famous Kali Biru (Blue River), whose scarlet color and crystal-clear water contrast sharply with the lush green of the surrounding forest. You'll also have the opportunity to meet local people living in a few villages, and free time will be dedicated to snorkeling to discover the magnificent underwater world. Return to the homestay in the late afternoon.
Day 2 -
The Passage
- Transportation Boat - 03h30 - 80km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Embark on a long day of speedboat travel, exploring Kabui Bay and its famous strait, "The Passage." You'll traverse what Alfred Russel Wallace described as "one of the most picturesque landscapes I have ever seen." En route, you'll skirt Gam Island and pass a pearl factory. This iconic West Papua strait, a narrow waterway separating Gam and Waigeo Islands, is bordered by towering limestone cliffs. Like a river flowing between two mountains, its nutrient-rich waters, churned by powerful tides, harbor exceptional marine biodiversity. You'll enjoy stunning panoramas and have the opportunity to snorkel in a unique area where corals, mangroves, and strong currents intertwine. After a stop at a small, secluded jetty, you'll reach a hidden bay where you can swim among pristine corals. To reach it, you'll travel through a narrow channel dotted with reefs and frequented by small sharks. This passage leads to a labyrinth of islets and tranquil lagoons, perfect for contemplation. A cave inhabited by bats adds to the magic of the place. Depending on the time, a stop at Pef to admire ancient rock paintings will be made before continuing on to Alyui Bay.
Day 3 -
Wayag, the icon!
- Transportation Boat - 01h30 - 30km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An early start to explore Raja Ampat's iconic archipelago: Wayag. Made up of small islands, Wayag now features on the new 100,000 rupiah banknote, a testament to its status as one of Indonesia's national treasures. Your first stop is Shark Point, where you can enjoy watching small sharks swim between your legs. If you're feeling adventurous, you can climb two peaks (ascents recommended for trekkers in excellent physical condition) for a breathtaking panoramic view. Afterwards, you'll appreciate a swim in a warm, tranquil lagoon all the more. Later, you'll head to a secluded beach nestled in the heart of what is perhaps the most beautiful lagoon you've ever seen! Overnight camping by the water's edge.
Day 4 -
Piaynemo eternal
- Transportation Boat - 02h - 70km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h30
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Enjoy a free morning to relax and soak in the paradise that surrounds you. Late morning, depart for Fam Island and its famous "wall," encircled by soft coral. En route, stop at Piaynemo, where you can climb the stairs to the summit of one of the region's karst peaks, offering breathtaking views. Later, head to the famous "Star Lagoon," shaped like a star. Weather permitting, you can also take a detour to "Lagoon Kecil," a small lagoon opposite Piaynemo with unique formations. There's the option to climb to the top of the cliffs via a staircase and, of course, snorkel in the emerald waters. Afterwards, enjoy snorkeling around "Melissa Garden" before returning to Fam.
Day 5 -
Immersion
- Transportation Boat - 01h - 20km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day is dedicated to meeting local people, who invite you to participate in their daily activities. It's also an opportunity to visit an oil palm plantation and enjoy some superb snorkeling spots.
Day 6 -
Hidden Lagoon
- Transportation Boat - 02h - 40km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today you'll delve deeper into the Piaynemo region, heading in particular to Rufas Island, home to a stunning lagoon. You'll naturally take the opportunity to explore its underwater world. Return to Fam in the afternoon.
Day 7 -
deserted islands
- Transportation Boat - 01h30 - 50km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure mid-morning for the beautiful island of Arborek, surrounded by stunning deserted islets, where snorkeling is a delight. You will also have the opportunity to meet the charming local people.
Day 8 -
Dancing with Manta Rays
- Transportation Boat - 01h30 - 30km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day is dedicated to snorkeling sessions around Arborek. You'll head to the famous "Manta Ridge," where you'll have the opportunity to "dance" with manta rays! In the afternoon, you'll continue your immersion in the local culture.
Day 9 -
Turtle symbolism
- Transportation Boat - 01h30 - 40km
- Activity Snorkeling
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h30
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure in the morning for Kri Island, passing by several superb snorkeling spots, including Sawandarek, where you can get close to reef sharks and, most importantly, encounter sea turtles, which are protected in Indonesia. Symbols of longevity and stability, sea turtles are indeed important as they regulate the Raja Ampat ecosystem. On Kri, you can climb the hill overlooking the island to watch a magnificent sunset.
Day 10 -
Strip of white sand
- Transportation Boat - 01h - 20km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day is dedicated to snorkeling around the island. You will discover in particular the spot of "Pasir Timbul" which is nothing other than a long strip of white sand surrounded by emerald waters.
Day 11 -
Rest in paradise
- Transportation Boat - 01h - 30kmper day
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Relaxing days on the beautiful white sand beaches of Friwen Island. Meeting the local people. Opportunity for snorkeling/diving around the "wall" of Friwen.
Days 12 to 13 -
See you very soon in Raja Ampat!
- Transportation Ferry - 03h - 70km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Early morning transfer to Wasai port, where you will board the ferry to Sorong. Transfer to the airport provided by your guide (arrival in Sorong around 11:00 AM). End of the trip.
Day 14
Accommodation
Access
Early morning pick-up at Sorong airport and transfer to Sorong port. The transfer at the end of your stay is also included.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Stay with an English-speaking guide
- Ground transfers in private, air-conditioned vehicles
- Sea transfers by ferry and speedboat
- Full board accommodation in Raja Ampat
- Site entrance fees, trekking permits, and donations
- Mineral water
The price does not include
- International & Domestic Air
- Visas and any airport taxes
- Drinks, personal expenses & tips
- Anything not mentioned under " Price includes "
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
• Visa on arrival (VOA - 30 days renewable):
○ Price: 500,000 IDR (+500,000 IDR for the 30-day extension).
○ To be obtained directly at the airport upon arrival.
○ Requires a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry and a ticket to leave the territory.
○ Allow 1 hour for the protocol.
• Online visa (30-day e-visa):
○ Available on the official website: https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/
○ Allows entry into Indonesian territory within 90 days of obtaining it.
○ Allows you to avoid the queue for purchasing the visa at the airport.
○ Upon arrival, you will go through the automatic gates (follow the E-visa/Evoa signs) by directly scanning your passport.
○ A confirmation email will be sent to you once the visa is activated.
Health and Vaccines
• Health advice: We are not doctors, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate recommendations.
• Health form: To be completed in advance online or on site by scanning the QR code.
Payment and Withdrawals
• Credit cards accepted almost everywhere (Indonesia is part of the G20).
• ATMs available in all major cities.
• Bring cash for warungs and small shops.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Camping equipment
Equipment to bring
- Mask, snorkel and fins (personal equipment strongly recommended)
- Lycra or lightweight snorkeling suit (sun and jellyfish protection)
- Waterproof bag for boat trips
- Headlamp (for bivouacking or power outages)
- Reusable water bottle (drinking water provided)
- Lightweight backpack (20–30 L) for excursions
- Camera or GoPro with waterproof protection
- Biodegradable and coral-friendly sunscreen
- Tropical mosquito repellent
- Small personal first aid kit (bandages, disinfectant, usual medication)
- Portable charger / external battery (electricity sometimes limited)
Clothing to bring
- Lightweight, quick-drying T-shirts (long-sleeved UV-protective T-shirts are recommended for snorkeling)
- Shorts and thin trousers (cotton or linen)
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts to protect against the sun and mosquitoes
- Swimsuits (minimum 2, to alternate)
- Pareo or microfiber towel
- Lightweight windbreaker or waterproof poncho (frequent tropical downpours)
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Sunglasses (high UV protection)
- Lightweight walking shoes or hiking sandals (for walks)
- Waterproof flip-flops/sandals for the beach and boat transfers
- Comfortable clothing for the evening + a light sweater (nights can sometimes be cool on the water)