Are you planning an escape that combines natural beauty and adventure? We recommend that you explore the last paradise, Raja Ampat. You’ll be amazed by the stunning scenery surrounding it, and you won’t be sorry to see it.
If you are in Singapore and wondering how to reach this remote paradise, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every journey from Singapore to Raja Ampat.
Where is Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is a hidden gem often hailed as the last paradise on Earth and is a dream destination for many travelers. Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle in Southwest Papua, Indonesia, this island is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine biodiversity.
This remote island is situated off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula in Southwest Papua and is home to over 1,500 small islands. In local languages, Raja Ampat means “The Four Kings” and refers to its four big islands: Waigeo, Misool, Salawati, and Batanta.
Raja Ampat is known as the paradise for divers, as it is home to the most diverse and abundant marine life in the world. This makes it an attractive destination for those passionate about nature and love exploring the underwater world.
Entry Permits Raja Ampat
Before visiting and exploring Raja Ampat, you must register to get an entry permit. The entry card for the marine park, also referred to as the “kartu TLPJL”, is available for purchase at the Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority office located in Waisai.
The term for the Marine Park Entry Fee, also known as the TLPJL Card, includes the following conditions:
- International visitors: IDR 700,000 (AUD 68,21)
- Indonesian citizens: IDR 425,000 (AUD 26,95)
- Children under 12 years old do not require a permit
- All permits are valid for 12 months of the date of purchase
Read More: Ultimate Guide for the Best Time to Dive Raja Ampat for Foreigners
From Singapore to Raja Ampat
Due to the archipelago’s remoteness, getting to Raja Ampat from Singapore can be quite a journey. It involves several stages of travel, including a flight to Indonesia, a domestic flight, and a boat tour. Understanding the best way to get to this untouched paradise is crucial. Here is a step-by-step guide to the journey from Singapore to Raja Ampat, ensuring your adventure starts smoothly.
The straight-line distance between Singapore and Raja Ampat, Indonesia, is around 2,800 kilometers (roughly 1,740 miles). Nonetheless, the distance traveled may differ significantly depending on the chosen route.
Besides that, Raja Ampat and Singapore are located close to each other, but there is a slight time difference between the two. Raja Ampat is one hour ahead of Singapore.
1. Take a Flight to Raja Ampat
The journey to Raja Ampat begins with finding a flight from Singapore to Sorong, the gateway to the archipelago. Sorong is the largest province in Southwest Papua and is the first stop for travelers exploring Raja Ampat.
While there are no direct flights, several airlines offer routes with one to two stopovers. Here is the flight option you can choose from.
A. Singapore [SIN] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] via Makassar with Scoot + Lion Air
- Outbound flight: Depart from Singapore Changi Airport at 07:55 and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] at 06:10 a day later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes around 21 hours and 15 minutes, including one stop at Makassar Hasanuddin Airport [UPG].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you approximately SGD 282.99.
B. Singapore [SIN] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] via Jakarta with Garuda Indonesia
- Outbound flight: Depart from Singapore Changi Airport at 12:20 and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok at 06:15 a day later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes around 16 hours and 55 minutes, including one stop at Jakarta Soekarno Hatta Airport [CGK].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you approximately SGD 426.70.
C. Singapore [SIN] to Domine Eduard Osok [SOQ] via Bali with Garuda Indonesia
- Outbound flight: Depart from Singapore Changi Airport at 11:15 and arrive at Domine Eduard Osok at 06:15 a day later.
- Details of flight: This flight takes around 18 hours, including one stop at Bali Ngurah Rai Airport [DPS].
- Estimated cost: This route will cost you approximately SGD 787.40.
2. Boat Tour to Raja Ampat
Upon arriving at Domine Eduard Osok Airport in Sorong, you must connect your journey to Waisai, located on Waigeo Island, Southwest Papua. This city is the entry point for travelers visiting the rest of the archipelago. You can reach the city by taking a boat tour from Sorong Harbor.
You can take a taxi from the airport to the port, which takes around 10 to 20 minutes. It will cost you approximately IDR 100,000 or SGD 8.60. Then, from the port, you have two primary transportation choices.
1. Ferry
The most common transportation choice from Sorong to Waisai is the public ferry. This option is less speedy but budget-friendly. Ferries usually run twice daily, on weekdays at 09:00 AM and 02:00 PM and on Saturdays at 09:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This trip takes approximately two to three hours.
2. Speedboat
Speedboats are faster than the public ferry but usually more expensive. This option is favored by travelers seeking a more immediate and direct passage. Speedboats are known for their speed keep in mind that speedboat availability in Sorong port is limited.
3. Raja Ampat Liveaboard
The travel route above is typically used for people who intend to visit the capital city of Raja Ampat for daily activities. If you plan to explore the popular tourist destination spots, we recommend you join the Raja Ampat tour package well before you visit.
Consider organizing a Raja Ampat tour package from a reputable tour operator, such as Komodo Luxury. We offer several packages that can be tailored to suit your needs and preferences. If you’re still not sure or confused, here are some Raja Ampat itinerary recommendations to help you find your perfect fit.
Raja Ampat Tour 7D6N
Get ready to set sail on a 7 days and 6 nights Raja Ampat itinerary. In a week, this itinerary offers a chance to experience Raja Ampat’s beauty and diversity. The trip will include diving at world-class dive sites, viewing breathtaking landscapes, and participating in water activities.
Day 1: Sorong to Dampier Strait
Sorong is the starting point for your journey to the Dampier Strait. Enjoy lunch on board, kayaking and snorkeling, and dinner on board.
Day 2: Explore the Kri Peninsula
You can snorkel or paddle in crystal-clear waters off the Kri Peninsula. Sardine Reef, Mike’s Point, and Cape Kri provide world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Days 3 & 4: Visit Wayag Island
Explore Wayag Island, a spot of iconic beauty in Raja Ampat. View the islands surrounded by the blue ocean from the summit of Wayag. Take a stroll on the white sandy beaches and enjoy a peaceful moment.
Day 5: Explore Gam Island
Take a trip to Gam Island to see the rare Red Bird of Paradise. There is a chance that you will be able to swim with stingless jellyfish in Kabui Bay if you are lucky.
Day 6: Dampier Strait and Arborek Village
Visit Arborek Village to experience local life and swim with manta rays in the Dampier Strait.
Day 7: Return to Sorong
It’s time to return to Sorong after exploring Batanta
Raja Ampat Tour 9D8N
Experience Raja Ampat at its fullest with our 9 days and 11 nights Raja Ampat itinerary. Enjoy the region’s natural beauty and marine life on this extended itinerary.
Day 1: Sorong to Waisai
Dive into some of the best dive sites from Sorong to Waisai.
Day 2: Central Dampier Strait
Discover majestic oceanic manta rays at Blue Magic, a diving and snorkeling spot in the Central Dampier Strait.
Day 3: Melissa Garden Dive Site
Experience vibrant coral reefs by diving at Melissa Garden.Take a look at the iconic view from Piaynemo’s summit.
Day 4: Batanta Island
Visit Batanta Island to see what it has to offer. The area is great for snorkeling and diving, and manta rays may also be seen here.
Day 5: Misool Island
Discover Misool Island, one of the four main islands. Oceanic Manta Rays, Giant Trevally, Napoleon Wrasse, and more marine life await you on your dive.
Day 6: Boo Window and Anchovy Dive Sites
The Boo Window and Anchovy sites are great places to see schools of Mobula Rays darting through anchovies, creating stunning underwater scenes.
Day 7: Whale Rock and Tank Rock
It is a great dive site to see soft corals and schools of fish at Whale Rock and Tank Rock.
Day 8: Andiamo Dive Site
Located in southern Raja Ampat, Andiamo is a fantastic diving spot. Pygmy Seahorses and Giant Trevallies are often spotted hunting.
Day 9: Return to Sorong
We anchor at Sorong at 5:00 AM to conclude the adventure. Get in touch with your airline or book a hotel room.
Raja Ampat Tour 11D10N
Experience Raja Ampat to the fullest with our 11 days and 10 nights Raja Ampat itinerary. Discover the rich biodiversity of Raja Ampat by visiting more destinations, diving deeper into the marine wonders, and exploring the marine wonders.
Day 1: Sorong to Misool
Explore the iconic Raja Ampat island of Misool from Sorong.
Day 2: Fiabacet Dive Site
Discover the beauty of Fiabacet, a stunning dive site in Misool’s southeast.
Day 3: Love Lagoon
Visit Love Lagoon to see the heart-shaped lagoon surrounded by coral reefs.
Day 4: Misool’s Scenic Views
Explore Misool’s maze of towering rocks, cliffs, and lagoons.
Day 5: Melissa’s Garden Dive Site
Experience a kaleidoscope of colorful coral reefs teeming with life at Melissa’s Garden.
Day 6: Wayag Island
A visit to Wayag Island will allow you to see the mushroom-shaped islets and pristine white sand beaches it has to offer.
Day 7: Yanggefo Mangroves
In Yanggefo, you can explore lush mangroves that contrast vibrant forests with crystal-clear waters.
Day 8: Arborek Village
Get to know the friendly locals of Arborek Village and dive sites like Manta Sandy and Sauwandarek Jetty.
Day 9: Red Bird of Paradise
Visit a World War II plane wreck underwater or swim with manta rays to see the rare Red Bird of Paradise.
Day 10: Kali Biru
Visit Kali Biru for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear freshwater, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Day 11: Return to Sorong
Once breakfast has been served, return to Sorong for farewell. Our team will safely escort you to the airport or your hotel.
Personalized Raja Ampat Tour
In addition to the mentioned itineraries, Komodo Luxury offers customized Raja Ampat itinerary to suit your preferences and needs. We can tailor a tour just for you, whether you are interested in snorkeling, scuba diving, a honeymoon, or an intimate moment with family and friends. Let our tour specialists know your wishes, and we’ll customize the trip that suits you.
Take advantage of the opportunity to have a liveaboard experience with Phinisi boats while cruising the Raja Ampat. KomodoLuxury provides qualified crews who will guide you through exotic panoramas, glamorous nature attractions, and diverse biodiversity.
Read More: Paradise Gateway: From Sorong to Raja Ampat
