Would you like to know which the top Raja Ampat Islands are? Indeed a hard decision but keep on reading and discover our selection.
Raja Ampat was ruled by Tidore Sultanate, who finds its origin from the Maluku Islands. During the 15th century, four kings were selected to effectively govern the group of islands. These kings were appointed to rule the four largest islands named Misool, Salawati, Batanta, and Waigeo. Then, the name Raja Ampat finds its origin from them, meaning Four Kings in Indonesian. 610 islands are within this archipelago.
Moving on, we will highlight the top Raja Ampat islands and what makes them special.
Waigeo Island
This island is amongst the biggest ones found in Raja Ampat and the development makes it stand out. It also holds significance since this is the first stop you will be having when you are travelling from Sorong to Raja Ampat on the ferry. It consists of several diving spots and beautiful beaches. People stay here to experience the local lifestyle at the Arborek village.
Misool Island
Misool is located at the farthest south side of Raja Ampat. It is surrounded by thick mangrove forests and lined with beautiful limestones all around. The location makes it a wonderful diving and snorkeling spot since it lies on a migration route for marine life, which enables divers to witness a wide variety of sea creatures. Apart from that, it also holds several caves that are waiting for you to discover and explore them.
Salawait Island
Despite being one of the biggest islands, Salawati is not so developped but it does not mean not to be important. Attracting people with a love for nature and history, the island has its unique landmarks, such as abandoned WWII bunkers. Surrounded by corals, this island also inhabits endemic marine life such as Papuan rainbowfish, while other lifeforms also remain as a major attraction for tourists visitin the island.
Batanta Island
The smallest and least developped of the Four Kings. The Batanta Island is a quality spot for trekking. With a constant cloud cover and light rain, the island has distinct weather. Surrounded by beautiful corals and waters, the island finds its place in the top islands despite the low number of villages found here.
Piaynemo Island
Often known as the most beautiful spot in the Raja Ampat, the Piaynemo is a part of the Fam Islands. It is characterized by a small group of islands stringed together. The astonishing view that you can enjoy and experience from this point envelops the true beauty of Raja Ampat. Deep turquoise water with limestone formation throughout the islands and a view of the sunset from this point will leave you astonished. It is certainly a picture in your mind that you cannot forget that easily!
Gam Island
The Gam Island is blessed with multiple attractions on hilly terrain with the southern coast consisting of traditional villages and paradisiacal beaches, while the Kabui bay on the northern site is sought after for spotting dolphins while kayaking. The colorful birds of paradise are also a common sight for visitors. Besides, it is centrally located in the Dampier straight, so your dive sites are not too far away from any given location.
Wayag Island
The island is extremely beautiful, covered in vegetation all along and surrounded with clear turquoise waters. The hills provide a perfect spot for hiking. Their peaks also provide a breathtaking peek into the paradise that comprises Raja Ampat where you can see most of the archipelago altogether.
