The most biodiverse reefs on Earth.
The dive
Raja Ampat sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle — more recorded fish and coral species than anywhere on the planet. Reef-hook drifts at Cape Kri, manta cleaning stations, and macro that rewards a slow eye.
When to go
October to April brings the calmest seas and peak manta activity. Avoid the windier June–August shoulder for the remote northern sites.
Readiness
Advanced-level site — suits Advanced Open Water divers and up. Typical requirements:
Not sure you're ready? Read our readiness guide or check yourself in the planner.
Logistics
| Getting there | Long-haul + domestic flights + boat transfer. Fly to Sorong (SOQ) via Jakarta or Makassar, then transfer by speedboat to a liveaboard or eco-resort in Dampier Strait or Misool. |
|---|---|
| Where to stay | Liveaboard or eco-resort. Liveaboard for range, or a fixed eco-resort (Kri, Misool) for a lighter footprint and repeat dives on signature reefs. |
| Operator to look for | Reviewed liveaboard operators with Coral Triangle experience and small-group dive ratios. |
Sources
Links checked 29 September 2026. They cover the site's location, protection status and background. Costs, difficulty and season windows are ScubaRogue's editorial estimates, so confirm them with your operator before you book. How we research
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