Raja Ampat : A Gentle Exploration - Nomadays

Indonesia

Raja Ampat : A Gentle Exploration

The Raja Ampat archipelago (which means "4 kings" in Indonesian) is located in the far east of Indonesia, more specifically in the "Coral Triangle", so named for its rich coral biodiversity. Some experts even claim that the seas surrounding these remote islands may contain the greatest diversity of coral species in the world!

This is why UNESCO is considering including Raja Ampat on its World Heritage List. It's also why we're inviting you to explore this fabulous archipelago at the end of the w...

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Sorong
Pulau Yeben

Day 1Welcome to Raja Ampat

Day 1Welcome to Raja Ampat

  • Morning welcome at Sorong airport and transfer to Sorong harbour. Board the ferry (1st class seats), which runs from Sorong to Waisai, leaving at around 9am (approx. 2 hours sailing time).

    Welcome in Wasai by a representative of the Cove Resort, then board a private speed-boat bound for Yeben (approx. 1,5 hour of sailing).

    The Cove Eco Resort is located́ on the small island of Yeben, southeast of Waigeo, one of Raja Ampat's four main islands. Because of its location, this 50-hectare island resort is open all year round. The beachfront accommodation is surrounded by white sandy beaches, clear crystal waters and coral reefs with amazing marine life, from which guests can dive and snorkel all year round.

    All packages include a snorkelling excursion every day to a number of areas, such as the magnificent Yeben Shallow, Manta Cove and other places around Yeben.

    You can also join a diver to explore other areas, as most of the dive sites are also suitable for snorkelling.

    Enjoy the rest of the day on this idyllic island.

Meal and accommodations

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Pulau Yeben
Pulau Wayag

Day 2Wayag : Indonesia’s Hidden Gem

Day 2Wayag : Indonesia’s Hidden Gem

  • Early morning departure (around 6:00 AM) for an unforgettable journey to the iconic Wayag, the crown jewel of Raja Ampat.

    A scenic 2.5-hour speedboat ride brings you to this breathtaking archipelago, a true national treasure of Indonesia and the inspiration behind the country's 100,000-rupiah banknote.

    For those up for a challenge, two steep summits offer rewarding panoramic views—these climbs are recommended for experienced trekkers in top physical condition.

    After soaking in the stunning vistas, take a refreshing dip in a serene, crystal-clear lagoon. Later, unwind on a secluded beach hidden within one of the most spectacular lagoons you’ll ever lay eyes on.

    Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Pulau Wayag
Pulau Wayag

Day 3Discover Yeben’s Vibrant Reef

Day 3Discover Yeben’s Vibrant Reef

  • Yeben's reefs are a paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of fish and coral.

    You can explore them from the jetty or directly from the island’s pristine beaches.For beginners, the best way to make the most of the experience is to be accompanied by a specialised guide.

    They will introduce you to the various fish and coral species found in the area while ensuring your safety.If you wish, you can also join the divers on their boat to explore more remote sites.

    You have the option to visit two snorkelling spots in the morning and return to the hotel around midday, or extend your adventure with three snorkelling stops, including a picnic lunch en route.

    Please note that if you plan multiple snorkelling excursions during your stay, the guide will take you to different reefs each time, ensuring a new and exciting experience with every outing.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Pulau Wayag
Piaynemo

Day 4Piaynemo Wonders

Day 4Piaynemo Wonders

  • Early morning departure to explore the Fam Wall, an underwater wonder adorned with vibrant soft coral.

    Your first stop will be a nearby island, where you can enjoy a light snack and observe the fascinating lizards that inhabit the area.

    Next, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Melissa’s Garden, a renowned snorkelling site teeming with marine life.

    You’ll then continue to Piaynemo, where you’ll pause for a well-deserved lunch break.

    From here, you can ascend a staircase leading to the summit of one of the region’s iconic karst peaks, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

    Later, set off to discover the stunning star-shaped lagoon, a true natural marvel. If the weather allows, on the return journey, you’ll make a detour to Lagoon Kecil, a hidden gem opposite Piaynemo.

    Here, you can climb to the top of the cliffs for an incredible perspective and snorkel in the shimmering emerald waters.

    Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Piaynemo
Sawinggrai

Day 5Mythical Birds of Paradise

Day 5Mythical Birds of Paradise

  • Early departure (around 5:30 AM) to the village of Sawingrai, where you'll have the rare opportunity to observe the majestic Cendrawasih, or bird of paradise, in its natural habitat.

    These iconic birds are most active in the early morning, typically between 7 and 8 AM.After this unique wildlife experience, you’ll snorkel around the Sawingrai jetty, home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

    You’ll then continue to Yenbuba jetty, another fantastic snorkeling spot, before heading to the picturesque sandbank of Pasir Timbul in Kri.

    This stunning disappearing island, known for its expansive sandbar, offers a perfect place to relax and take in the breathtaking surroundings.

    You'll enjoy a picnic lunch here.In the afternoon, you'll visit the charming village of Arborek, where you can interact with the locals and explore their way of life.

    Snorkeling around the village jetty reveals a spectacular underwater world filled with giant clams, schools of fish, and delicate soft corals.

    Return to the hotel in the late afternoon

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Sawinggrai
Pulau Yeben

Day 6Picturesque Landscapes

Day 6Picturesque Landscapes

  • Mid-morning departure by speedboat to explore what Alfred Russel Wallace once described as "one of the most picturesque landscapes I have ever seen."

    Your journey begins as you navigate towards Gam Island, passing a pearl farm along the way.Your destination, The Passage, is West Papua's most famous waterway—a narrow channel that separates the islands of Gam and Waigeo.

    Flanked by towering limestone cliffs, it resembles a winding river, its nutrient-rich waters creating a haven for marine biodiversity. The strong tidal currents here attract a dazzling array of marine life, making it a prime snorkeling spot. You’ll have the opportunity to explore this unique underwater ecosystem, where coral thrives even among the mangrove roots.

    Afterward, you’ll pause at a secluded jetty near Kabui for a refreshing coffee or tea break, before heading to a hidden bay—one of Raja Ampat’s secret gems. Accessible via a winding channel lined with coral reefs and home to small reef sharks, this bay opens up into a breathtaking labyrinth of rocky islets and serene lagoons. You’ll snorkel above pristine coral gardens, explore a quiet lagoon, and even visit a cave inhabited by colonies of bats.

    A picnic lunch will be served on a nearby beach before you begin your journey back. Along the way, you’ll stop at Pef Island to admire ancient cave paintings, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

    Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Pulau Yeben

Day 7Relax in Paradise

Day 7Relax in Paradise

  • A day of snorkelling or kayaking around Yeben.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include

Lunch: Include

Dinner: Include

Accommodation: Cove Eco Resort

Pulau Friwen
Sorong

Day 8See you soon in Raja Ampat

Day 8See you soon in Raja Ampat

  • Transfer to the airport provided by the hotel around 6:30 am (arrival in Sorong around 11 am).

    End of services, flight to Jakarta.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Include