Things To Do in Raja Ampat That Aren’t Diving
Raja Ampat is often spoken about in hushed tones among divers as one of the last truly wild places on earth. Located in the remote reaches of eastern Indonesia, this island-studded region is home to some of the most biodiverse coral reefs in the world. While diving may be the main draw, there is far more to discover in Raja Ampat than just what lies beneath the surface.
For those who don’t dive, or simply want to take a break from tanks and fins, the islands offer a rich and varied experience. From wildlife encounters to cultural experiences, these are some of the best things to do in Raja Ampat that don’t require diving gear.
Visit Traditional Villages
Life in Raja Ampat revolves around the ocean, and visiting the local villages offers a chance to connect with this unique maritime culture. The village of Arborek is one of the most welcoming, with colourful homes built on stilts and a boardwalk that leads out into turquoise water. Locals often sell handmade crafts such as woven bags and carved wooden mantas, and children are quick to offer a smile or wave.
Sawinggrai, on the island of Gam, is another excellent stop. It’s known for its efforts to conserve the surrounding reefs and bird populations. Many homestays are locally owned and staying here supports community-based tourism. Walking through the villages offers glimpses into daily life and a chance to learn about Papuan traditions. It is also one of the places where you can see the birds of paradise without a huge hike.
Watch the Bird of Paradise at Sunrise
Deep in the forests of Gam Island, the red bird of paradise (Paradisaea rubra) begins its courtship display as the first light filters through the canopy. Seeing these birds in the wild is one of Raja Ampat’s most remarkable experiences. Local guides offer early morning walks through the forest to quiet lookouts, where the birds gather in the treetops to perform their elaborate dances.
There are two species of birds of paradise in Raja Ampat
Wilson’s bird-of-paradise – Cicinnurus respublica
Red bird-of-paradise – Paradisaea rubra
Along the way, it’s possible to spot other forest birds including Blyth’s hornbills, kingfishers, and imperial pigeons. The walks are usually short but steep, so good footwear and an early start are essential.
Discover unique wildlife
Away from the reefs and forests, Raja Ampat is home to some unique land-dwelling wildlife. Coconut crabs (Birgus latro) are giant, tree-climbing crustaceans that can sometimes be seen around village edges, particularly on islands like Arborek and Friwen, where they venture out at night to forage. These impressive creatures are more active after dark and are often spotted near compost heaps or beneath dense vegetation close to the shoreline.
The common spotted cuscus (Spilocuscus maculatus), a slow-moving, tree-dwelling marsupial, is rarely seen but occasionally found in the low canopy of forested islands such as Gam and Waigeo. It is most active at dawn and dusk, when it may be seen feeding quietly among the branches or clinging to tree trunks in the shadows.
Even if you don’t see these species, there is wildlife all around. At night you will hear the birds calling in the jungle and the boundary between jungle and habitation will be full of insects and beautiful wild flowers and plants. Mangroves around the shoreline are full of life including the rare archer fish.
Snorkel Over Vibrant Reefs
Even without diving, the reefs of Raja Ampat are accessible. Many of the best sites begin in shallow water, just steps from the shore or a short boat ride away. Yenbuba Jetty and Friwen Wall are perfect examples, offering coral gardens brimming with reef fish, clams, and the occasional turtle. Snorkelling here is like drifting through an underwater kaleidoscope.
Currents can vary, so local advice is important when planning where and when to snorkel. Many homestays and small eco-resorts provide kit and guided snorkelling trips.
Kayak Through Quiet Lagoons and Mangroves
Paddling through the sheltered waters of Kabui Bay or the mangrove channels near Gam is a peaceful way to explore the islands. Kayaks and paddleboards offer a different perspective, with towering limestone cliffs, overhanging trees, and hidden beaches revealing themselves slowly.
These calm waterways are rich in birdlife and often free of other people. Early morning and late afternoon paddles are best, with golden light illuminating the islands and reflections dancing on the water.
Hike to Island Viewpoints
Raja Ampat’s iconic views are not just for postcards, they can be reached by those willing to climb a few steps. The viewpoints at Piaynemo and Wayag require short but steep hikes, up uneven wooden stairs. The reward is a panoramic view of emerald karst islands scattered across deep blue water.
Visiting these viewpoints is best done early in the morning before the heat builds. Boats from homestays or resorts can organise trips, which often include snorkelling stops along the way. Most liveaboard boats offer the hike to Piaynemo viewpoint as a surface interval activity when you are diving at Melissa’s Garden.
Take Time for Photography
With landscapes that shift from rainforest to reef in a matter of metres, Raja Ampat is a dream for photographers. The light changes constantly, and every corner of the islands offers a new composition. Overwater bungalows, traditional boats, dense foliage, and the clarity of the sea all combine to create striking images.
Whether using a camera or a smartphone, sunrise and sunset are ideal times for photography. Drone photography is increasingly popular but should be done with sensitivity, especially near villages and wildlife.
Slow Down and Enjoy the Stillness
Raja Ampat has a way of making time feel different. Without roads or schedules, there’s space to simply be. Afternoons can be spent reading in a hammock, swimming in calm lagoons, or watching reef fish dart through the clear shallows beneath your room.
The simplicity of life here is one of its greatest treasures. Disconnecting from the outside world and embracing the rhythm of the sea offers a kind of calm that is hard to find elsewhere.
Sustainable Travel in Raja Ampat
Preserving Raja Ampat’s fragile environment and culture is essential. Travellers can help by choosing local homestays, avoiding single-use plastics, using reef-safe sunscreen, and following all marine park guidelines. Respect for both nature and the communities is the key to keeping this place as wild and beautiful as it is today.
Exploring Raja Ampat
While diving may have put Raja Ampat on the map, it’s far from the only reason to visit. From birds of paradise in the treetops to hidden lagoons, coral-fringed snorkel sites, and peaceful village life, the above-surface experiences are just as memorable. For those seeking wild places, slow travel, and true immersion in nature, Raja Ampat offers far more than what lies beneath the waves.
Tips for Visiting Raja Ampat
Raja Ampat is a beautiful destination, offering unparalleled biodiversity, stunning underwater landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. To help you plan your trip, here’s a summary of key points covering how to get there, the best time to visit, where to stay, and what to expect.
How to Get to Raja Ampat
To reach Raja Ampat, most international travellers first fly into major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Bali. From there, domestic flights are available to Sorong, the gateway to Raja Ampat. Regular flights operate from cities such as Jakarta, Bali, and Makassar. Once in Sorong, a ferry or speedboat ride to Waisai, the capital of Raja Ampat, takes about 2-3 hours.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Raja Ampat depends on what you want to experience. The dry season, from May to September, is ideal for calm seas, excellent visibility (often exceeding 30 metres), and vibrant coral gardens. The wet season, from October to April, is characterised by higher rainfall and stronger winds but offers incredible opportunities to encounter manta rays, pelagic species, and even coral spawning events.
Where to Stay
Raja Ampat offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Eco-friendly resorts, such as Misool Eco Resort, Papua Explorers, and Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort, provide comfortable stays with easy access to dive and snorkel sites. For a more local experience, homestays on islands like Arborek, Kri, or Gam are budget-friendly and allow visitors to connect with local communities. Liveaboards are another popular choice, especially for divers who want to explore remote sites and multiple regions of Raja Ampat. These floating accommodations vary in price and comfort, catering to different budgets.
