Holiday in Raja Ampat

What makes Raja Ampat special as a destination?

Raja Ampat, located at the northwest tip of Papua New Guinea (West Papua), is the most biodiverse marine area on Earth and a dream destination for divers that leaves even experienced underwater adventurers speechless. The more than 1,500 islands, atolls, and rock pinnacles of the archipelago are home to 75 percent of all known coral species worldwide and over 1,700 fish species — a biodiversity that is unmatched anywhere else on the planet. The underwater world is simply overwhelming: At dive sites like Cape Kri, Blue Magic, and Manta Sandy, one encounters giant manta rays, wobbegong sharks, schools of fish in dense clouds, and pygmy seahorses among colorful gorgonian fans. Cape Kri holds the world record for the most fish species counted in a single dive: 374 species. Snorkelers also have a great time, as many reefs start just below the water's surface. Above water, Raja Ampat offers equally spectacular landscapes: The Wayag Islands with their mushroom-shaped karst rocks rising from turquoise waters are among Indonesia's most iconic natural images. Access is via flight to Sorong and then by boat — the remoteness has helped keep this paradise largely untouched. Homestays with local Papua families provide authentic insights into the culture, while dive resorts like Misool Eco Resort combine sustainability with comfort. The best diving season is from October to April.