A secret archipelago with aquamarine waters in Indonesia is the new “must-see” tropical destination for Australians – and has been dubbed “paradise on earth” by visitors.
Raja Ampat, the “last paradise” in the northwest of the country, is off the beaten tourist trail but just a three-hour flight or seven-day ferry ride from the busy sands of Bali.
This little-known spot is a lush, jungle-like utopia of 1,500 white-sand islands and a vibrant coral reef that offers some of the best diving in the world.
Domi and Thomas, from 2 travelers with problems, shared the hidden island paradise that less than one percent of all tourists traveling to Indonesia will ever reach.
“All you have to do is fly to Sorong International Airport, then take a ferry to Waisai Port and ask your host family to pick you up there,” they said.
‘It is the place with turquoise water, white sand beaches, stunning views and an incredible underwater world.’
The unspoiled beauty of one of the world’s “last wild places” has been compared by some to the stunning fictional moon world of Pandora in the Avatar films.
Guests visiting the far-flung islands have called them the best place “in the universe” and praise the snorkelling, fishing and “amazing” birdwatching they offer.
Raja Ampat, meaning four kings, is a collection of 1,500 islands in northwestern Indonesia that travelers have dubbed the “last paradise.”
Visitors to the hidden destination boast of swimming in the “most beautiful” waters they’ve ever seen
A famous heart-shaped lagoon is located in Karawapop, on Misool Island in Raja Ampat.
Travelers also rent boats to tour the islands and explore hidden lagoons and relax on protected beaches, but they can’t expect the same amenities as in Bali.
However, the “stunningly beautiful” island of Kri has limited running water and electricity.
There are no ATMs or credit card machines and you will need to bring all your spending money in cash and arrange accommodation in advance through a family.
Pam Island boasts “magical” crystal-clear waters, perfect beaches and recreational sports that keep visitors coming back for more and more.
“The diving was absolutely amazing. The people are so kind and friendly… it was an amazing experience,” said one.
Chartering small boats to tour the islands is the perfect way to explore the family of connected islands that make up Raja Ampat.
Travelers who visited this remote island called the white sand beaches and turquoise water “unreal” and easily among the best in the world.
“We will definitely add this to our bucket list,” another agreed.
Some complained that the remote location made it “super expensive” for Indonesians to visit Raja Ampat, even though it is relatively close to Bali.
First-time visitors to the area are advised to stay for a week or more, and while there are plenty of budget options available, some have said that visiting can be expensive when you factor in food and accommodation.
Travelers have insisted that the islands’ remoteness is what sets them apart.
“Pristine islands with dense forests, let them remain that way. Untouched and protected. They are not easy to get to, but that’s okay,” said one.
“I think the hardest places to reach are usually the most worthwhile,” added another.