15 Breathtaking Photos of Raja Ampat, Indonesia

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.

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.

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.

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.

..and the manta rays do too.

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.

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?

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

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.