15 Breathtaking Photos of Raja Ampat, Indonesia

A free diver explores a coral reef slope adorned by a beautiful gorgonian in Raja Ampat, Indonesia
A free diver explores a coral reef slope adorned by a beautiful gorgonian in Raja Ampat, Indonesia | © Ethan Daniels / Shutterstock
Edira Putri

The diving paradise of Indonesia, the Amazon of the seas, the Caribbean of Papua, the Crown Jewel of the Coral Triangle. There’s no word, no phrase or nickname that can fully express the charms of Raja Ampat, Indonesia. Discover the mesmerizing beautsunsey of Raja Ampat in 15 breathtaking photos.

The Underwater Scene

Raja Ampat has at least 537 corals species — that’s 75% of all known scleractinia in the world. Look at those magnificent shapes and colors, like a treasure chest at the bottom of the ocean. And that’s the thrill you’ll experience when coming face to face with this scene.

Colourful Corals in Raja Ampat

Fancy a more calming, earthy palette? No problem, there are different scenes in every corner. The varying underwater landscape — rocky seabeds, coral reefs, walls, caves and more — create an endless habitat for marine creatures to thrive.

Corals and fish in Raja Ampat

Don’t forget the more than 1,500 fish species, ranging from different sharks to tiny pygmy seahorses. A famed ichthyologist, Dr. Gerald Allen, encountered 280 fish species on a single dive! Look, someone even found Nemo hiding by the anemone.

A clownfish and anemone in Raja Ampat

Rubbing shoulders with exotic species like sea turtles shouldn’t be hard to achieve. They love the vibrant underwater atmosphere as much as we do.

Diving with sea turtles in Raja Ampat

..and the manta rays do too.

Diving with manta rays in Raja Ampat

It’s no wonder that Raja Ampat’s underwater magnetism draws divers from all over the globe. As a diving paradise, the region has numerous dive spots, each with its own charms and characteristics. Whether it’s your first time putting on a pair of flippers or you’re looking to challenge your pro skills, Raja Ampat has a suitable experience for everyone.

Diving in the mouth of a cave in Raja Ampat

Above Sea Level

Above Sea Level

Now you’re convinced that Raja Ampat has an unmatched underwater beauty. But don’t discount on the postcard-worthy charms above the surface. Like the sight from this viewing deck in Pianemo which offers a sweeping view of the archipelago’s karst constellations, scattered around the beaming turquoise waters.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia © Sarawut Kundej / Shutterstock

In another part of the islands, the rock formations create a star-shaped lagoon filled with translucent shades of emeralds.

Sunsets are among the best sights in this archipelago in Papua, Indonesia. The pristine nature, tall rock formations, lush jungles, clear ocean, even the fresh breeze and seawater scent, all conspires to intensify this precious event of the day. No matter how long your stay in Raja Ampat is, trust us, you don’t want to miss a single sunset.

And yes, we know you’ve seen Pianemo a few pictures ago, but look at how much prettier it gets during the sunset. The few minutes of magic will last forever in your memory. Bursts of red and orange fall on the opulent sea and small islands, creating silhouettes and indescribable charming shades.

Sunset in Pianemo, Raja Ampat | © Vaclav Sebek/ Shutterstock

Don’t forget the magnificent sunrise too! You wouldn’t regret skipping the snooze button and rising up early for early hikes or island-hopping.

Floating village and canoe on the sun rise – Indonesia – West Papoua – Raja Ampat © Yohann MORIN / Shutterstock

..because it only gets better. There are countless spots to explore, numerous islands to hop on.

Island-hopping in Raja Ampat, Papua | © nmedia/ Shutterstock | © nmedia / Shutterstock

Staying in Raja Ampat

Staying at locally run homestays will not only cost you less, they offer an opportunity to support local economy, interact more with locals and have an authentic Papua experience. What’s more exciting than having the beach right at your front door?

Beachfront homestay in Raja Ampat

Further into the sea, you can opt to stay at one of the homestays perched off the coast into the translucent water.

Bamboo Huts in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

If you prefer comfortable luxe resorts, Raja Ampat has got them too. Many of these resorts come with a fun package of diving, island-hopping and more.

Papua Paradise Resort
culture trip left arrow
 culture trip brand logo

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

women sitting on iceberg

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

culture trip logo letter c
group posing for picture on iceberg
group posing for picture on iceberg

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

map of volcanic iceland trip destination points
culture trip brand logo
culture trip right arrow
landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.