Raja Ampat
Short story
Raja Ampat is a treasure chest in Indonesia, named “Four Kings“. Based on a local myth, a woman found seven eggs, four of which hatched and later they became kings who ruled over the Raja Ampat Islands, namely Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo. The fate of the archipelago was not simple in the past; it was usurped by nations for centuries due to the breathtaking beauty of its nature. However since 1963, it has belonged to Indonesia, the regency is West Papua Province.
Often referred to as “the last paradise on Earth,” this archipelago comprises over 1,500 small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands mentioned earlier. It’s home to more than 1,456 species of fish, representing 75% of all species globally. Furthermore, there are 553 types of coral and 699 mollusk species. Various bird species, including the spectacular Cendrawasih, or Bird of Paradise, thrive here. One can also encounter a unique mammal, the cuscus, which is exclusive to this region. Raja Ampat’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, featuring hidden lagoons, waterfalls, and breathtaking hills. The colours of the water range from turquoise to deep blue, creating a stunning aquatic landscape. The islands are remote, allowing you to escape from the civilization’s environmental destructions and enjoy nature as it was created. You can observe the amazing biodiversity both on land and in water, making it an experience of a lifetime.
Diving in Raja Ampat
Currents
When you come to Raja Ampat you have to be aware of two things.
Firstly you can find the most biodiverse marine ecosystem in the world.
Secondly, this area is famous for the strong currents. With those currents it has its advantage, stronger currents bring more fish. If you want to know if there will be currents or not, you have to check the phase of the moon, full moon and black moon mean more currents.
The strength of the currents depends on the location and season. There are not strong currents at every diving spot, some of them are especially calm. When we plan the next day diving we always consider the knowledge level of the guests. When new divers join the dive, we will go to a calmer spot first to observe their ability. Based on this, we choose the next diving location. When there are strong currents we use a hook onto the reef for support and admire in the beauty of the ocean. If you do not know how to use it don’t worry, our experienced guides will help you!
Safety first!
About season
Raja Ampat is a year round destination, because we are 1 degree South from the equator.
The water temperature is always 28-30 Celsius degrees. The mantas are present mainly from November until April. You can see many mantas that come here because the ocean is full of planktons. But in the low season way less liveaboards, less crowded, visibility varies a lot but can be amazing up to 30-50 meters. Less mantas but still some around.
The best months are between October and April. But it doesn’t mean it rains every day in monsoon period. Luckily the rains are less severe than other areas of Indonesia, as In Bali or Java.
Raja Ampat entrance fees
Raja Ampat is the richest Marine biodiversity on Earth. 75% of the coral species known worldwide are present here. We would like to conserve this current status and improve it. For this the foundation is necessary, so please demand the permit to support MPA (Marine Protected Area) Management Authority. At the Mantastic we will check them, and without these you cannot dive.
Additionally you have to pay 2 types of fees when you come to Raja Ampat.
fee #1: Raja Ampat Visitor Entry Ticket
300.000 IDR/person/year
You have to arrange it at the harbour at the homestay information center (by cash or credit card)
fee #2: Raja Ampat Marine Park Entry Permit
TO DIVE WITH US, AS OPERATOR IN RAJA AMPAT, WE WILL CONTROL THAT YOU HAVE THIS PERMIT
700.000 IDR/person/year (for international visitors above 12 y.o.)
425.000 IDR/person/year (for Indonesian and KITAP holders above 12 y.o.)
You have to claim this permit online HERE
Both fees are mandatory and, by law, it is your responsability to pay them before entering Raja Ampat. If Raja Ampat is still full of fish, mantas and this amazing biodiversity, it’s because of this tax, DON’T SKIP IT.