Raja Ampat Local Activities Guide, these are some of the Topside Highlights
If you’ve never been to Raja Ampat before, you’re in for the vacation of a lifetime! Here are a few notes on our local tour operators and activities.
While Raja Ampat is still undeveloped, there are a few things that you can do if you want to take a break from your dive or snorkel holiday. If you are looking for a day of relaxation, several options exist.
EXPLORE WAIGEO AND MAYALIBIT BAY
Take a trip and enjoy some time out at the Blue River. Start by taking a local taxi (or hire your scooter) to Warsambim village in Mayalibit Bay. It takes approx 30-45 minutes to get there. Along the way, you will find Waigeo Waterfalls on the side of the road, and you can stop for a while to take photos and continue your journey to Warsambin village.
When you reach the village, there are a couple of local restaurants, such as the Mangrove Restaurant and an Orchid Farm Restaurant. You can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and local pastries or stay for lunch or an early dinner. Next, you can catch a local long boat across the bay, where you will take a short walk over some embankments and into the jungle until you reach the Blue River. When you get there, leap into the ice-cold and refreshing water.
Tips: Take mosquito spray and drinking water with you. You will need IDR cash if you want to buy anything.
WARSAMBIN VILLAGE – You can reach this village by car from Waisai Town or by boat. The people are very friendly in a small village where very little English is spoken. A new orchid garden and lobster farm are stop-off points you can visit on your way to the Blue River.
BLUE RIVER TOUR – This is a local tour to Kali Biru; as the name implies, the water in this river is crystal clear blue. Kali Biru is in the heart of Raja Ampat, in Kampung Warsambin. Due to deep water and narrow channels flushing out the turbid water from the mangroves, areas like The Blue River – “Kali Biru” offer lighting that will genuinely enchant you.
Approx 45 min a drive, then a 10 min local boat & 15 min walk through the jungle. The best times to be there are in the mornings (from 8:00 am until 12:00 pm) or afternoons (1:00 pm until 5:00 pm). Be greeted by a pool of blue water that is refreshingly cold to the touch, peacefully sleeping under a jungle canopy.
WAIGEO WATERFALLS – If going to the Blue River by car or scooter, remember to stop at the waterfall for a great social media picture.
SAPORKREN VILLAGE AND SOME LOCAL BEACHES
Rent a scooter or take a taxi, whichever you prefer, and head out along one of the only roads towards Saporkren Village. You can make a day of it by starting at 4:30 am and seeing the Birds of Paradise. If you are not an early riser, head out after breakfast at the resort. On-route, stop at a local beach spot to get fresh coconuts, snacks, and even some classic Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng. What a fantastic way to spend a casual day around Waisai.
Tips: Be sure to take your snorkel gear with you, as the charge at the local beach is anywhere from IDR100,000 to IDR200,000 for the day.
BIRDS OF PARADISE – Raja Ampat has long been famous for its Birds of Paradise since the ancient trade in their feathers in the 18th Century. Birdlife on the islands is rich and diverse and guarantees days filled with birdsong no matter where you are.
Getting up early (4:30 am) would be best to witness these beautiful creatures. Approx 30 min drive from Waisai and a 40-minute walk to the bird-watching house. Maximum ten people for viewing. Remember to bring mosquito spray, binoculars, hiking shoes, and dark clothing.
SAPORKREN VILLAGE, WAISAI – A proud and friendly village, Saporkren is cleaner and neater than many other villages in Raja Ampat. It is a great place to spend the day relaxing away from the world. Pack snorkeling gear and have a local lunch at one of the homestays (please be sure to book in advance). There is also a small cave to explore if you want to wonder.
About Meridian Adventure Dive
Situated in Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Meridian Adventure Dive is a PADI 5 Star Resort and winner of the PADI Green Star award. Scuba divers enjoy our professional services that have become synonymous with both the PADI and Meridian Adventure names.
