Discovering from Sorong to Raja Ampat is an exciting experience. Raja Ampat is one of the dream tourist destinations for people across the world. The island is renowned for its breathtaking view across the island and stunning marine biodiversity, which is considered one of the best in the world.
It’s not surprising that many travelers are willing to spend a considerable amount of money to visit this glorious island. If you are planning a trip there from Sorong, here is comprehensive information to help you get to Raja Ampat.
Where is Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is as far east as you can go in the Indonesian archipelago. It is located off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula in New Guinea. It is part of Indonesia’s Southwest Papua province and is made up of around 1,500 islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands of Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati, and Misool.
Raja Ampat means Four Kings in the local language. The name comes from a local myth about a woman who found seven eggs. Four of the seven eggs hatch and become kings that occupy four of Raja Ampat’s biggest islands, while the other three become a woman, a ghost, a stone.
Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Raja Ampat definitely offers some of the underwater ultimate experience. The territory within the islands of the Four Kings is enormous, covering 9.8 million acres of land and sea, home to 540 types of corals, more than 1,000 types of coral fish, and 700 types of mollusks. Not surprisingly, Raja Ampat is known as the world’s last underwater paradise.
Read More 5 Best Place to Snorkeling in Indonesia
From Sorong to Raja Ampat
Sorong is the largest city and capital of the Indonesian province of Southwest Papua. This city is the gateway to the last paradise, Raja Ampat. Upon arriving at Domine Eduard Osok Airport, you must continue your journey to Waisai.
Waisai City is a district located in Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua. This city is the closest city to Raja Ampat, where all trips to explore Raja Ampat begin. From Sorong, you have options to get to the Waisai, mostly taking a boat tour from Sorong harbor.
A. Boat Trip
This way is often chosen by travelers to get to Waisai from Sorong. From Domine Eduard Osok Airport, you can take a taxi to get to Sorong Harbor, which will take around 10 minutes.
On Sorong Harbor, you have the option of choosing a ferry, a Phinisi, or a speedboat tour to get to Waisai. The most common way to reach there is by ferry, which departs twice daily on weekdays at 09:00 AM and 02:00 PM, and on Saturdays at 09:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
B. Plane Trip
Apart from taking a ferry boat tour from Sorong Harbor, you can also take a domestic flight from Domine Eduard Osok Airport [SOQ] to Marinda Airport [RJM]. Several airlines provide flights for this route, such as Susi Air, Wings Air, and Nam Air.
Please note that there is no set timetable for the flights from Sorong to Raja Ampat or vice versa. We suggest that you check with the Airline as soon as you arrive at Sorong Airport to see if they are flying to Raja Ampat.
Read More How to Trip from Bali to Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat Boat Tour
Once you arrive in Waisai, your only option to explore Raja Ampat is by Raja Ampat boat tour since the trip involves island hopping. We suggest that you consider joining a guided tour to enhance your journey.
If you want a safe, trusted, and convenient tour, we recommend you take a private boat tour of Raja Ampat by KomodoLuxury. KomodoLuxury is a top-notch tour operator – winner of 2023 travelers choice awards on TripAdvisor that is committed to making your trip memorable and one of the best trips of your life.
KomodoLuxury offers two options for your sailing journey in Raja Ampat: Private Speedboat and Private Phinisi Trip packages. Both of which are designed to cater to your every desire. With nine years of experience, our team will provide you with excellent service and make your dream unremarkable.
You can choose from our three boat classes: deluxe, VIP, and VVIP. The unique specifications, designs, and facilities of the boat perfectly suit your holiday budget.
Read More Must Know! 5 Tips for Booking Your Boat Tour
How Much Does It Cost to Entrance Raja Ampat
Registration for the Environmental Service fee is mandatory for anyone who wishes to explore Raja Ampat Park. You can purchase the marine park entry card, also known as the “kartu TLPJL”, from the Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority office in Waisai.
By paying the Environmental Services Fee, each visitor makes a direct contribution to the ongoing protection and sustainable management of the unique marine environment of Raja Ampat.
The following are the terms of the Marine Park Entry Price or TLPJL Card:
- International Visitors: IDR 700,000 (USD 44,38)
- Indonesian citizens: IDR 425,000 (USD 26,95)
- Children under 12yo do not require a permit
- All permits are valid for 12 months of the date of purchase
Ready to take your Raja Ampat boat tour from Sorong? Don’t wait to make your dream vacation a reality. Book your Raja Ampat Sailing Tour with KomodoLuxury today and set sail towards paradise. Contact us now, your dream vacation awaits!
