Indonesia is definitely on the radar of divers around the world, but with so many islands to choose from, which area should you choose? Bali, Flores, and Sulawesi are fabulous options but for us Raja Ampat really takes the gold dive locations. Here are just a few reasons why Raja Ampat stands out.

Unrivaled Biodiversity

Raja Ampat is often referred to as the “Heart of the Coral Triangle“, boasting the highest levels of marine biodiversity on the planet. Divers can explore a vast array of marine life, including rare and endemic species like pygmy seahorses, walking sharks, various rays and even dugongs. You’ll see some incredible animals at other dive sites around Indonesia, but nothing compares to Raja Ampat when it comes to sheer number of species.

Pristine Reefs and Marine Habitats

Unlike some other dive destinations in Indonesia that have experienced degradation due to human activity, Raja Ampat’s reefs remain remarkably healthy and untouched. Its remote location has contributed to the preservation of its pristine marine habitats, offering divers the opportunity to witness thriving ecosystems.

Variety of Dive Sites

Raja Ampat is home to over 1,500 islands, each offering a diverse range of dive sites, from vibrant coral gardens and dramatic wall dives to exhilarating drift dives and underwater caves. Divers can explore a new and unique underwater landscape with every dive.

Year-Round Diving

While some Indonesian dive destinations have specific diving seasons dictated by weather patterns, Raja Ampat offers fantastic diving opportunities year-round. Stable conditions for diving throughout the year allows divers to visit without being restricted by the seasons.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

Raja Ampat’s remote location means fewer crowds compared to more accessible dive destinations in Indonesia. Divers can enjoy a sense of exclusivity and adventure as they explore pristine dive sites away from the tourist crowds, adding to the allure of diving in this remote paradise. It does mean a slightly longer journey to get there, but it’s 100% worth trip.

Conservation and Sustainability

Raja Ampat has gained recognition for its conservation efforts and commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Local initiatives aim to protect the region’s marine biodiversity and empower local communities. Sharks, manta rays, turtles, and dugongs are protected in most of the vast archipelago and destructive fishing methods are well controlled in the region.

Unique Accommodation

There are some beautiful places to stay all over Indonesia, but accommodation like Papua Paradise Eco Resort is hard to find. Overwater bungalows are rarely seen in the archipelago, so they really stand out. Watching the marine life in the house reef below from your private deck is an experience not to be missed.

Choosing Raja Ampat for diving offers not only exceptional underwater experiences but also the opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts and immerse oneself in the beauty of one of the world’s most extraordinary marine environments.

Have you chosen Raja Ampat over other places in Indonesia? We’d love to know what made it your choice, so leave us a comment in the box below.