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- Escape from Bali? Here's a quieter alternative
Escape from Bali? Here's a quieter alternative
Skip Bali for this bucket list essential
Mike D. Lang
October 03, 2024
Tom Fisk
A lot of recent social media posts about Bali are never-ending complaints about overcrowding, dirty beaches, and a paradise that’s anything but.
The most common answers tend to advise those trapped in those busy spots to travel further afield in search of those more tranquil spots we normally associate with the island.
Today however, we’re taking a bigger leap. Skip Bali altogether and be rewarded with the world’s ultimate underwater experience in Raja Ampat.
Oh, and significantly fewer rowdy Westerners.
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Swapping Bali for the Raja Ampat Islands is like skipping mac’n’cheese in favour of some caviar.
There is a reason why the vast area is called the diver’s paradise and is widely considered a travel bucket list essential.
WHERE IN THE WORLD?
Well. Far. Particularly if you’re travelling from Europe or the US, but the journey itself is worth it.
The Raja Ampat Islands are located just off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua.
Take a neck cushion. (Google Maps, Apple Maps)
GO IF….
you’ve mastered the skill of snorkelling while picking your jaw up from the (ocean) floor every couple of minutes.
DON’T GO IF….
you only relax while shopping.
RAJA AMPAT - WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION?
Underwater heaven
OK, some big numbers incoming. Over 500 types of coral and 1000 types of coral fish. All scattered over this vast archipelago consisting of over 600 islands inhabited by just under 70,000 inhabitants.
People who went diving there talk about underwater paradise, the best snorkelling experience of their lifetimes and practically minimal boat traffic.
The nutrient-rich waters of the Kabui Passage are home to a huge number of marine species, and that’s one of the top spots to visit in the area if you’re into snorkelling.
However, the strong currents that wash over some of the locations may put beginner divers off, so be warned.
The heaven continues above water
If diving to greet turtles, Manta rays and endless schools of tuna or batfish is not for you, there’s enough to be awed by above the water too.
Companies like Papua Explorers offer day trips to explore the most stunning islands and locations.
At Wayag Island visitors can either dive or climb up one of the atolls to admire the breathtaking panoramic views.
Liveaboards
They are the opposite of cruise ships. Small in size, often converted from fishing boats, liveaboards are considered by many as the only way to explore the vast and varied area (as opposed to staying in a resort).
A liveaboard off the coast of West Papua. Photo by Johnny Africa
They’re designed for every budget, but often offer similar experiences.
You can get to the best diving spots, admire the mushroom-shaped islets, and socialise with a small group of like-minded explorers.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Your best bet is Sorong, the capital of Southwest Papua. From there, the fastest way to Raja Ampat is by plane to the relatively new Marinda Aiprort, also known as Raja Ampat Airport. It was built in 2012 on the island of Waigeo.
There are also ferries and boats departing from Sorong to Waisai - you can buy tickets on arrival and the journey by sea will take around two hours.
There are no international flights to Sorong, so you’d need to get to Jakarta, Manado or Makassar first.
CURIOUS? READ ON:
How to get to Raja Ampat
Lonely Planet: Raja Ampat
Top 5 dive sites in Raja Ampat
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See you next week.
Mike