Raja Ampat or the “Four Kings” are the islands off the west of Papua – the main islands being Waigeo, Salawati, Batanta and Misool – home to ancient rock paintings. The area is a diver’s paradise with spectacular underwater life. According to The Nature Conservancy, 75% of the world’s underwater species can be found in this vast area. The archipelago has changed little since its waters were frequented by spice traders in the 18th Century – even most of the passing boats are in the traditional phisini style. The visitors heading here are of the intrepid kind, those wishing to escape modern life just for a while.
Take the tender ashore to Yenbeser, Gam, a small village in a shallow cove surrounded by jungled cliffs, where children play in the waves and love to greet visitors. The bird noises at sunrise and sunset are mind-blowing – this is the only place in the world where the Red Bird of Paradise can be found.
Why not visit Mios Kon, a castaway island like something out of The Blue Lagoon, play 18 holes at the Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club, or go for a hike in the UNESCO World Heritage site where lizards, wild horses, buffalos and monkeys can be seen.