Where Is Nusa Penida Island? (With Location, Direction, Why Is Nusa Penida Famous, And What’s Going On)

BY  Sibashree Sep 3, 2025

Whenever people think of Bali, they think of crowded places full of tourists. However, many travellers often wish to escape from the rat race of getting the ideal accommodation, the ideal selfie, and the most cliché food items to experience, where they have to compete with a bunch of other tourists.  Munduk Bali, a small village in Northern Bali, is an exception among all of these things. It is a slow-paced town in Bali, offering a proper laid-back, sleepy vibe. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will talk about a complete tour plan in Munduk Bali.  A Complete Tour Plan For Munduk Bali  Serene temples, gurgling waterfalls, natural waterslides, immersive lakes, rice fields, and coffee plantations make Munduk Bali an ideal place for agrotourism and ecotourism.  Here are the details about how to reach Munduk, where to stay, and things to do.  1. How To Reach Munduk Bali? Bali is not very big. Hence, renting a motorcycle can help people travel conveniently.  The place is located approximately an hour and a half's drive from the cities of Canguu and Ubud.  The road takes you through rice terraces, villages full of vibrant Balinese culture, and through the exceptionally beautiful mountains. However, the air provides you with a mild chill as the Sun sets. Thus, riders should take warm clothes when traveling to places like Munduk, Bali.  Many travellers do not feel comfortable while riding a bike. They can always take Go-Jek (Local Bike Taxi) rides to different places. Even buses are available. Moreover, the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar is the nearest airport to Munduk. It is located at a distance of 81 km, and you can arrange a private ride or a shared-ride by road to reach Munduk from the airport in more than two hours.  2. Accommodation In Munduk, Bali Munduk provides two main places to live. Travellers either stay in the Twin Lake area or the town area in Munduk. However, people who stay near the Twin Lakes do not find any small shops or amenities around them. But they can get proper peace of mind away from the crowd. The area is situated in close proximity to the local waterfalls and the temple. Staying Near The Town In Munduk  The town offers a mesmerizing view of the ocean and the beaches of Lovina, situated below. The travelers find better food and lodging options that are conveniently located near basic amenities, such as ATMs, Petrol Pumps, and other services. The area offers a variety of restaurants serving Western cuisine, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Most accommodation facilities here do not have air conditioners or various other amenities. However, you can find places like Puri Lumbung Cottage with air conditioning and other amenities. The approximate cost of staying in Munduk Bali should be around $20-100 per night, based on the type of hotel you choose.  3. What Are The Things To Do In Munduk, Bali? Bali's Munduk provides tourists with some of the most incredible travel destinations and spots that offer wonderful adventures. Visiting Different Waterfalls The place is like the land of Waterfalls, where people get to see multiple types of waterfalls.  The travellers should visit waterfalls like Banyulama Twin Waterfalls, which is one of the most famous ones in the region. Apart from that, they should visit waterfalls like Banyu Wana Amertha, Labuhan Kebo, Golden Valley, and Air Terjun. Exploring The Rice Terraces Travellers know about Bali Munduk for its rice terraces and the fields. Therefore, the tourists should visit the rice terraces and enjoy the view of the mountains from there. Reach the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, spanning over 600 hectares, after a one-hour ride from Munduk. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest in Bali.  Praying At The Ulun Danu Beratan Water Temple The Ullu Danu Bayan Temple in Bali is one of the most incredible temples in the region. It is located in the middle of a lake, and it looks stunning with the backdrop of the mountains.  The temple also has a well-manicured garden, and it worships the supreme god, Sang Hyang Widhi. It is the representative of Brahman or the universe in Hindu Philosophy. The temple also worships Goddess Laxmi for protecting the lake.  Visiting The Twin Lake At Munduk Bali  While people drive to Munduk Bali, they will find the twin lakes once they climb up the mountain. Tamblingan and Buyan Lakes are referred to as Twin Lakes. The Twin Lake area is peaceful, and you will find amazing viewpoints such as Wanagiri Hidden Hills here. You can even go for jungle trekking or just soak in the spirituality in silence. In the jungle, you will find ancient temples such as Pura Dalem Tamblingan.  Moreover, if you are an adventurous soul, you can enjoy canoeing in the lake or explore the hidden waterfalls.  Enjoying The Beauty Of The Incredible Pesiraman Natural Waterslide  The Pesiraman natural waterslide is one of the hidden gems of North Bali. It is located near the Aling-Aling Waterfall.  Smooth natural rocks in the river and the natural current of the river water have formed this natural waterslide.  Why Visit Munduk Bali? Is Munduk Bali Worth It? Munduk Bali has everything serene. However, it is slowly emerging as a luxurious ecotourism hub, offering boutique hotel experiences, such as Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort.  Moreover, the terraced rice fields and coffee plantations here are important for the agricultural landscape, natural preservation, and cultural heritage of Bali. Sampé jumpa, Munduk! Munduk Bali: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about Munduk Bali 1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Munduk Bali? April to October is the best time to visit Munduk Bali. It is the dry season with moderate weather conditions. So, it is the ideal time for hiking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. The wet season in Bali starts in November. 2. How Long Does It Take To Stay In Munduk? The ideal duration of staying in Munduk Bali depends on the kind of experience you want. You can touch the major attractions in two days. However, if you have a jungle safari and hiking in your itinerary, you will need at least 5 days to visit Munduk.  3. Are There Monkeys In Munduk? Yes, there are monkeys in Munduk. You will especially spot these mischievous animals near the Munduk Viewpoint overlooking the Twin Lake area. It is their natural habitat. So, be respectful to them and maintain a safe distance.  4. What Is The Cost Of A Trip To Munduk Bali?  The cost of visiting Munduk Bali is around $500-600 per person. It is less expensive than other popular tourist attractions of Bali, such as Nusa Penida.  5. Is Munduk A Jungle? Many tourists mistake Munduk for a lush jungle area. However, in reality, it is an important agricultural hub of the country with coffee and spice plantations and rice fields. So, despite being a highland area surrounded by lush vegetation, Munduk is more than wilderness. It is a unique destination where nature, spirituality, unique livelihood, and adventure meet.  Read Also: Is Amed Bali Worth Visiting? (Location, How To Reach, Things To Do, Nightlife, And More) Bali Beyond The Beaches: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of The Island Planning a Vacation to Bali? Read This Blog!

BY  Sibashree Dec 26, 2025

The Tourism Ministry of Indonesia has just released the Wonderful Indonesia Diving Directory. It has the most “reliable” information about the best diving sites in the country. Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua is featured in this directory.  Raja Ampat, home to the one-of-a-kind Raja Ampat SEACAM Center (RASC), is the best underwater diving and photography destination on a budget. The RASC has Nikon Z8 and Canon 7D Mark II macro and wide-angle sets.  Furthermore, the SEACAM accessories here, such as strobes, viewfinders, and dome ports, and trained photo guides will take your underwater photography experience to a new height.  Moreover, Raja Ampat is located within the Coral Triangle off West Papua. So, the reef life here is the richest, and from seahorses to the titan triggerfish and hammerhead shark, you will understand what diversity is.  So, no wonder that Raja Ampat, with its four main islands and around 1800 small islands, has been chosen by the New York Times as one of the must-visit destinations in the world. Raja Ampat Dive Site Guide: Navigating The Underwater Geography Of Raja Ampat Raja Ampat is an archipelago. At the same time, it is a massive amalgamation of three different diving zones. Now, which diving zone will be the best for you will depend on the kind of diving experience you want.  For example, if you want to see marine biodiversity, Cape Kri in Central Raja Ampat (Dampier Strait) will be the best location. On the other hand, if you want to see pygmy seahorses, soft corals, and unique limestone formations, you will have to visit Boo Windows in South Raja Ampat (Misool).  However, remember that many major diving sites are around 100-150 miles away from each other. So, if you are planning to stay in a central resort and plan Raja Ampat diving trips in the north and south regions in a day or two, it is not possible.  There are three diving zones in Raja Ampat, namely: Central (Dampier Strait) North (Wayag & Kawe) South (Misool) 1. Central (Dampier Strait) The Dampier Strait Region has the most celebrated diving sites, such as Blue Magic and Cape Kri. It has the highest fish count, and the high-voltage current in the water here makes it the favorite of advanced divers.  2. North (Wayag & Kawe) The North zone has the most dramatic limestone landscape. The sites here are wild and pelagic-heavy. Here, you will find the famous Eagle Rock, and the lagoon views here are stunning.  3. South (Misool) South (Misool) is the capital of the soft coral. It is also home to Magic Mountain, the best Manta Ray site in the region.  Furthermore, protected by a private marine reserve, Misool is suitable for spotting colorful sea fans and caves. What Are The Top Dive Sites In Raja Ampat Indonesia? The tourism industry of Raja Ampat is indeed coral-studded. Here are the top diving sites in Raja Ampat, Indonesia.  1. Central Raja Ampat (Dampier Strait) Dive Sites The Dampier Strait is famous for its biodiversity. Located between the Waigeo and Batanta islands, it functions as a massive source of nutrient-rich water.  Furthermore, the strong current here is one of the main reasons behind an explosion of marine life. So, most resort-based divers prefer the Damier Strait region.  • Cape Kri Dive Site Stats: Depth: 5m – 30m Current: Strong (Variable) Difficulty: Advanced (Drift) Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle Cape Kri has the highest number of fish species recorded on a single tank dive. You could spot as many as 374 species.  Along with the numbers, the biomass here is also impressive. You will encounter massive schools of sweetlips, snapper, and fusiliers. Look out into the blue for grey reef sharks, barracuda, and passing dogtooth tuna. The coral garden at the top is pristine. Dive Strategy When you are in Cape Kri, you will have to find the split point. It is the place where the current hits the reef. When the guide drops you at the upstream, you will have to stay close to the reef for your safety.  • Blue Magic Dive Site Stats: Depth: 10m – 30m Current: Medium to Strong Difficulty: Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle Blue Magic is located between Waisai and Kri Island. Its submerged pinnacle attracts a lot of pelagics. This is a small island, but it is home to a rich marine biodiversity. It also stands out because of the manta ray cleaning stations.  Reef Mantas are common in the central region. However, Blue Magic is one of the rare places where you will meet a giant Oceanic Manta Ray with a wingspan of up to 7 meters. Furthermore, you will find the Wobbegong sharks under the coral ledges.  Dive Strategy Blue Magic demands a unique entry. It is called a negative entry because here, you will have to roll back and descend immediately without surfacing.  So, maintain an A-level in your fitness game.  With a negative entry, you will not miss the reef. The dive ends in the blue, so good buoyancy control is essential for your safety stop. • Manta Sandy Dive Site Stats Depth: 5m – 18m Current: Mild to Medium Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle (or Fisheye) Manta Sandy is the best place in the Dampier Strait for spotting Reef Manta Rays. Its shallow and sandy slope with many large coral "bommies" functions as a cleaning station.  Manta Interactions In Manta Sandy  You have stay behind the strict line of rocks placed in the sand here. Then, you will spot the mantas circling around the cleaning station right in front of you.  Stay calm and low and wait until they swoop over your head directly. This creates incredible photo opportunities.  • Sardine Reef Dive Site Stats Depth: 5m – 25m Current: Strong Difficulty: Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle Ironically, Sardine Reef is not home to sardines. It has got such a name because fish are packed like sardines.  The schools you will find here on this oval-shaped reef patch are Surgeonfish, Fusiliers, Butterflyfish, and Damselfish.  Other marine life you will encounter here are Barracuda, Giant Trevallies, and Spanish Mackerel. Also, divers love Sardine Reef as it is home to rare species such as Oceanic Triggerfish, Napoleon Wrasse, and Bumphead Parrotfish.  Why Is Sardine Reef A Photographer’s Dream? The life around the submerged oval reef is so dense that the schools of fish here can block the Sun. Furthermore, at this adrenaline-pumping drift dive, you will see a lot of hunting action on the current side.  The Giant Trevallies and Tunas dart into balls of baitfish. Overall, the underwater scene is chaotic, colorful, and quintessential Raja Ampat! 2. South Raja Ampat (Misool) Dive Sites South Raja Ampat has a private Misool Eco Resort, but is primarily accessible by liveaboard. The underwater world is “different” in the truest sense. At the epicenter of the marine protected area, it has kaleidoscope-colored soft corals, massive sea fans, and dramatic topography.  Here are the best dive sites in South Raja Ampat, Indonesia.  • Magic Mountain (Shadow Reef) Dive Site Stats Depth: 7m – 30m+ Current: Variable (Can be strong) Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle You cannot make a diving itinerary in Misool without including Magic Mountain as a stop. This offshore ridge is located in the open sea. So diverse marine life is attracted toward it like a magnet.  Also known as Karang Bayangan or the Shadow Reef, the Magic Mountain is located in the southeast of the Warakaraket Island.  The Topography And Diving In Magic Mountain  Magic Mountain looks like an underwater plateau mountain. Here, the steps go down a dozen times. This site is ideal for mid-level and expert divers.  Marine life spotted here are: Napoleon Wrasse Surgeonfish Fusiliers Barracuda Jacks Grey Reef Sharks Yellow Snapper Turtles Wobbegong Sharks As you get off the diving board, you will notice a hard coral garden, and if you are lucky enough, you will notice a Pacific Manta Ray within minutes.  When you are at least 25 meters down, you can go close to the ridge walls and find wonderful macro critters. You will also spot Pelagics and a wide variety of large fish.  Overall, it is an ideal combination of large and small marine life.  The Manta Bi-Highway Magic Mountain also comes with its cleaning station on a ridge, which is approximately 7 meters. Here, you will find one of the rarest Bi-Highways in the world. You will spot the giants of the open ocean, Oceanic Manta Rays and Reef Manta Rays, here.  The sight is something dreams are made of!  • Boo Windows Dive Site Stats Depth: 5m – 30m Current: Medium to Strong, Divers should be ready for drift diving Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle/Fisheye Boo Windows is one of the most photogenic diving sites in Raja Ampat. Here, you will find windows, which are actually swim-throughs into the reef.  This site has a lot of reef fish, and you will love the large schools of fusiliers, batfish, and sweetlips here.  Diving Through Boo Windows  Divers usually enter the diving site on the west side of the large Boo Island. Here, you will go down the water straight and find the famous window. This is the spot where your camera can be at work.  Now keep the reef on your left side and dive from the north end of the site and move toward the south. At 25 meters, you will meet the Red Tooth Trigger fish. It is an opulent sight, trust me! Here, you can end your diving or move east to find the face of the reef, or if the current favors, take a double back on the west side.  • Four Kings  Dive Site Stats Depth: 5m – 40m Current: Medium to Strong Difficulty: Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide Angle "Four Kings" (Kaleja) have four submerged pinnacles, with a steep ascent from the depth of the water. Connected by a ridge, these four rocky outcrops almost look like a mountain range under the water.  The deep canyons vary from 5 to 40 meters in depth, and they add more mystery to the underwater mountain-like structure.  This diving site is filled with marine life. Imagine schools of batfish, fusiliers, and reef sharks doing a round of these ridges.  Exploring The Pinnacles Of Four Kings  Diving here begins with dropping deep on one of the pinnacles, and then you can spiral your way up. The rocky outcrops look beautiful with a cover of soft orange and purple corals. You will hardly notice any bare rock space.  Furthermore, as you approach the pinnacles, you will find clouds of glassfish. Groupers and Trevallies gather here in search of prey.  Unlike most sites, diving here is a vertical experience. So, you will feel like swimming through a live aquarium tower.  3. North (Wayag & Kawe) The Waigeo Island (NorthWest), Kawe Island, and Wayag constitute the diving areas in the north of Raja Ampat. The northern part of Raja Ampat is not typically ideal for diving. Still, divers love it for spotting wobbegong sharks, Eagle Rock, and manta rays.  Furthermore, the diving sites in the north are a favorite of photographers due to the presence of microcritters.  • Northwest Waigeo Island Dive Site Stats Depth: 10 to 40 Meters  Current: Mild to Strong Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide-Angle Lens, Strobes, and Macro Lens  With highlight spots such as Mayalibit Bay, the northwest of Waigeo Island is home to white and black-tip reef sharks, pygmy seahorses, sea dragons, sea fans, Indian lionfish, green sea turtles, and more.  Another highlight spot is the Alyui Bay. Here, you will find ghost pipefish and crustaceans. It is ideal for night dives. • Wayag Dive Site Stats Depth: 5-40 Meters Current: Mild Difficulty: Beginners to Advanced Lens Recommendation: Ultra-Wide Angle, Telephoto Zoom, and Standard Zoom  The mushroom-shaped islands and the pristine lagoons make Wayag a favorite spot for diving and snorkeling. The Wayag lagoon is one such lagoon, and it further stands out as the nursery for the juvenile Manta Ray population.  Furthermore, you will find colorful soft corals here and different species of sharks. Wobbegong sharks and blacktip reef sharks are the most popular among them.  The unique rock formations here also help form a wide range of lagoons. So, it is also an ideal place for photography and kayaking.  • Kawe Island  Dive Site Stats Depth: 5-40 Meters Current: Mild to Strong (Ideal for Drift Dives) Difficulty: Beginners to Advanced Lens Recommendation: Wide-angle Fish Eye/Rectilinear Zoom Lens Famous for manta rays and a rich biodiversity, Kawe Island is also home to diverse schools of fish such as fusiliers, jack, and barracuda.  The Kawe Islands are literally the equatorial islands, and the absence of homestays and land-based resorts makes the area pristine.  As you go deeper, you will come across a labyrinth of massive boulders. These boulders have a cover of soft corals in a citrus color. This is a favorite of wobbegong sharks as their color matches the covering.  So, Which Diving Site Should You Choose In Raja Ampat? A Comparison Summary Of The Diving Sites  Here is a comparison summary of the top dive sites in Raja Ampat, Indonesia.  Traveler TypeTop Dive Sites In Raja Ampat Beginners• Kawe Island• Manta Sandy• WayagThe Adrenaline Junkie• Cape Kri• Blue MagicThe Manta Lover• Manta Sandy (Central)• Magic Mountain (South)The Photographer (Wide)• Boo Windows• Cape KriThe Snorkeler• Manta Sandy Resort Vs. Liveaboard: How To Choose The Best Accomodation For Diving Enthusiasts? Your choice between resorts and liveaboards as accommodations will depend on the part of Raja Ampat you want to access.  1. Choosing A Resort  If you want to dive around the Central Raja Ampat or Dampier Strait sites, you can stay in resorts. Kri, Waigeo, and Gam islands have the highest concentrations of resorts in Raja Ampat.  Furthermore, if you are staying in these resorts, you will have easy access to the famous Dampier Straits. However, access to Wayag and Misool will be difficult.  Still, if you are in Misool, you will have access to the Misool Eco Resort. It is the only resort operator in the south, and it will give you exclusive access to Misool's sites without a liveaboard.  2. Choosing A Liveaboard If you want to experience the best of all the diving zones, a liveaboard will be the best option. It will give you access to the Central region as well as Wayag in the north and Misool in the southern region.  A liveaboard is the best way to dive Cape Kri, Eagle Rock, and Magic Mountain all in one vacation. A Raja Ampat Dive Site Guide: Things To Do Apart From Diving A Sacred Region With The Prevailing Sound Of Underwater! This is how I would describe the diving sites of Raja Ampat.  The underwater region of Raja Ampat is as vivid as you can think of. From the sound of rice crispies made by the hidden shrimps in the corals to the fish, such as rabbitfish, unicornfish, and batfish, all the colors in the palette are present underwater.  Also, don’t forget the hawksbill turtles, tearing up hard corals in search of the soft sponge inside. Furthermore, as National Geographic rightly points out, 75% of the world’s corals are present here, and the water here has over 1500 fish species.  Moreover, half of the region is a network of marine protected areas (MPAs), and the Dampier Strait is at the epicenter.  Floating In Indonesia’s Traditional Wooden Pinisi Boats The underwater world of Raja Ampat is like a lingering lullaby. When you are not diving, you can take a ride on the traditional wooden pinisi boats of Indonesia.  These boats are made with hands on the South Sulawesi beaches, and this craftsmanship is designated as an intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO.  Listening To The Dawn Chorus  When you are staying in a boat overnight, especially in the Dampier Strait, you will wake up to the deafening chorus of the sea eagles, the red birds of paradise, and other feathery friends.  And you never know when a crocodile or a blacktip reef shark comes close to your boat and keeps an eye on you.  Visiting The Sacred Waters Of Raja Ampat  The waters of Raja Ampat are not just ideal platforms for diving and spotting marine wildlife. Some areas, such as Mayalibit Bay, are associated with tribal legends.  In a mountain cave, the bones of the ancestors are preserved. Also, the local tribes worship nature at the Kali Biru river. This part of Raja Ampat has started getting tourists for the last few years now, and the history and sacred beliefs around this place are associated with the King of Waigeo and the Mayan tribe.  These Mayan warriors used to worship at the Kali Biru river and connect to the God before going to war. The families of local people still gather here around the river, wearing a headgear made of junglefowl feathers, dried sago palm leaves, bright red berries, shells, and other natural elements.  What Is The Best Season For Diving In Raja Ampat, Indonesia? Most guides mention Raja Ampat as a year-round diving destination. Let me tell you, it’s not true. Probably, none of them has been to the southern parts of Raja Ampat to know that the southern sites only remain suitable for diving in a particular season.  Here is a seasonal breakdown of the best season for diving in Raja Ampat. SeasonsDiving ConditionsThe Prime Season (October to April)• Dry Season• Calm Water• High Visibility• Manta Numbers at Peak• Ideal for diving the Full North-to-South Liveaboard RouteThe "Windy Season" (June – September)• Strong Winds and Waves due to the Southwest Monsoon• Crossing to Misool (South) Becomes Dangerous and Often Impossible. So, to sum up, Do not book a trip in July/August expecting to dive Magic Mountain. The Central (Dampier Strait) region is suitable for diving throughout the year. It is so because of the protection of the islands of Waigeo and Batanta. So, even in the windy months, Cape Kri and Blue Magic will be good for diving. In fact, there will be fewer crowds to enjoy the underwater scene.  Practical Tips For Diving Raja Ampat: Diving Conditions & Safety Gear Have you heard of Indonesian Throughflow? It is a powerful water movement feeding the underwater reefs. The water movement ensures that the reefs remain nutrient-rich and that marine animals gather around the reefs.  However, this powerful movement also causes a strong current in the water.  So, at almost every diving site in Raja Ampat, you will notice a drift along a reef. However, at points like Blue Magic, there will be more challenging washing machines or downdrafts. At these sites, you must listen to your dive guide as they can assess the power of the current from the water's surface.  Nevertheless, thanks to the changing current conditions, you will need the following diving gear.  1. Reef Hook Suppose you are diving in Cape Kri and you have reached the split point. Now, these split points, home to diverse schools of fish, also have the strongest current.  Now, you will use your reef hook on a dead piece of rock. This allows you to "fly" in the current and watch the show without exhausting your air supply. 2. DSMB Or Delayed Surface Marker Buoy If you are diving in sites that are offshore pinnacles, you can drift away from the reef. You can even get separated from your diving group.  In such cases, use a delayed surface marker buoy or DSMB so that the tender boat can find you even in the choppy water.  3. Wetsuit A 3mm long wetsuit is ideal. The water temperature remains around 28°C–30°C. However, there are chances of potential thermoclines, especially during repeated dives. The wetsuit will also protect you from hydroids and stinging plankton.  A Raja Ampat Dive Site Guide: Sustainable Diving And Marine Conservation  With a network of nine marine protected areas (MPAs), Raja Ampat demands a sustainable diving community-based marine conservation.  1. Sustainable Diving People associated with tourism businesses in Raja Ampat and diving operators and diving resort owners have joined the local community to ensure marine conservation by using sustainable practices and equipment.  They also teach the consumers and tourists and the customers about environment-friendly practices.  2. Community-Based Marine Conservation The local communities of Raja Ampat play an important role in the protection of the diving sites in Raja Ampat and the overall marine conservation.  People from this local community monitor the coral reefs and they educate tourists about why protecting the marine life is important.  Top Dive Sites In Raja Ampat: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the top dive sites in Raja Ampat.  1. What Is The Deepest Dive In Raja Ampat? It is difficult to pick a single name for the deepest dive in Raja Ampat. The average depth of the top diving sites in Raja Ampat is around 10 to 40 meters. Still, Cape Kri and Blue Magic are some of the deepest diving sites in Raja Ampat. Cape Kri is famous for reef sharks, and Blue Magic has Mantas, Tunas, and Trevallies.  2. Which Is A Better Diving Experience, Palau Or Raja Ampat? Palau offers the best liveaboard experience. However, if you want to experience better marine biodiversity, drift diving, and macro photography opportunities, Raja Ampat wins the race by miles.Also, if you want to see historical wrecks, you can choose Palau with the World War II wrecks hidden under the water.  3. Is Diving Raja Ampat Beginner-Friendly? Yes, Raja Ampat has many diving sites, such as Blue Magic and Manta Sandy, which are ideal for beginners. Calm and warm waters in these sites offer ideal diving conditions for beginners. Furthermore, the shallow reefs ensure that you can spot marine life and corals just below the surface. Moreover, reputable diving centers in Raja Ampat, such as Gangga Divers at Papua Paradise and Papua Diving Resorts, offer personalized assistance to beginners. Read Also: Is Amed Bali Worth Visiting? (Location, How To Reach, Things To Do, Nightlife, And More) Is Munduk Bali Worth Visiting? (Direction, Things To Do, Unique Attractions, And More) Bali vs Thailand: Which Place is Better?

BY  Sibashree Dec 30, 2025

You may find me rude, but I have to say that most guides on Raja Ampat budget diving are vague. First, they scare the divers with a false notion that diving in the “Last Paradise” needs at least $5000. This is a myth bubble, which needs to be burst.   A budget diver can complete their expedition for around $2000 to $2500. The budget includes diving, meals, and the tariff for basic cabins. Even mid-range liveaboards are available between $3500 to $4000 dollars.   Furthermore, there is a lot of “reading between the lines” regarding the all-inclusive packages and the ones with “Terms and Conditions.” So, being naive (don’t make a fool of yourself and let others make you pay more) here means blowing your budget even before you have done the expedition.   In this Raja Ampat budget diving guide, I will give you honest budget breakdowns and discuss the factors that impact the budget.   For example, transfers are expensive. However, if you take a shared boat or use the public ferry to Waisai, you can cut around 50% of your transport cost.   Are you planning a diving trip to Raja Ampat for the first time? Start with our Raja Ampat diving trips.   Homestays Vs. Dive Resorts: How To Dive Raja Ampat On A Budget?  Want the truth? You don’t need to stay in a $300 per night resort when you are diving in Raja Ampat. You can still have the best diving experience by staying at a $35/night local homestay and diving with a local PADI shop.   This “Homestay Dive Model” really works for smart divers and backpackers. And you must know that this daily tariff includes three meals.   However, remember that when you book a resort, the airport transfer will be way smoother. Most of the time, a resort boat will pick you up.   If you are planning to spend your days in a homestay, you will have to stand in a queue to get a public ferry ticket to reach the homestay from the airport.   Nevertheless, the hassle is completely worth it as you will be spending a quarter of the amount a luxury resort will charge you.   Also, by staying in the homestays, you can support the growth of the local Papuan communities.   “Homestay businesses empower communities to take charge of their future, and the jobs created strengthen village economies.” - Stay Raja Ampat.   1. Understanding The Homestay System In Raja Ampat   “Stay Raja Ampat” is the go-to platform if you want to stay in a traditional Raja Ampat accommodation and take part in snorkeling and diving. You can even indulge in wildlife spotting or just relax.   Arborek, Friwen, Gam, Kri, Waigeo, and Mansuar are some of the islands that host traditional Raja Ampat homestays.   You can follow the Stay Raja Ampat Facebook page to find homestays.   2. Understand The Fuel Surcharge Reality And Choose A Location That Needs Little Traveling  Fuel surcharge is a real concern for budget divers in Raja Ampat. If you are staying away from the diving site, you will need to pay an extra $20-50.   So, it is smart to choose an accommodation near the diving site. For example, if you want to dive in Cape Kri, choose a homestay on Kri Island.   3. Budget Homestays With Dive Shops  The Arborek Dive Homestay, Lagoon Homestay in Rufas, Pam (Fam) Islands, and Dayan Dive Homestay Raja Ampat at Batanta, Pulau Dayan are some of the best homestays with dive shops.   However, you cannot be complacent with your gear rental math. Based on the type of gear you are taking on rent, the cost will be around $5 to $30.  The Liveaboards: The Most Accessible And Value-For-Money Accommodation For Divers In Raja Ampat   I have mentioned earlier that liveaboards in Raja Ampat are suitable for all types of divers. Here, I will give you the cost breakdown of budget, mid-range, and luxury liveaboards.   If you want to know more about staying in Liveaboards in Raja Ampat, you can read our Raja Ampat liveaboard tips.   1. Budget Liveaboards  If you are not too much into getting comfort, the budget liveaboards are ideal for you. You will get a basic cabin, guided dives, and meals.   Additionally, you may have to share a bathroom, and you need to pay extra charges for nitrox.   2. Mid-Range Liveaboards  Mid-range liveaboards will cost you around $4500 per trip. The dining facility here is better than the budget liveaboards. Also, the dive decks are larger, and they have en-suite cabins.   So, the overall experience is comfortable but with a lesser pocket-pinch than expected.   3. Luxury Liveaboards   If you are staying in luxury liveaboards, you will get spacious cabins, which you don’t need when you are traveling solo. Anyway, luxury or the lack of it is the choice of the traveler.   Some liveaboard facilities can even offer you a spa facility, photography lessons, and personalized diving guides.   The average cost of these liveaboards is $5500-7500 per trip.   Cost Breakdown: The Unavoidable Expenses For A Diver In Raja Ampat   Irrespective of your choice to stay in a luxury resort, homestay, or liveaboard, you will have to make these expenses. These expenses are related to diving, entry to marine parks, the speedboat transfers, etc.   1. Marine Park Fee  Nine marine protection areas protect Raja Ampat. Local villages and communities preserve these protected areas in collaboration with the conservation authorities.   So, you need to pay conservation permits when you are entering these areas. The amount you pay is spent on the following reasons.   Marine Patrol  Reef Protection  Community Development  The Permit Entry Raja Ampat or PIN is the main permit among these. This is like a regional entry ticket that supports the community programs and the marine ecosystem.   2. Raja Ampat PIN Free  According to the last update in 2025, the PIN fee for international visitors is IDR 1,000,000, which is around USD 60.   Indonesian citizens, on the other hand, need to pay IDR 500,000 or USD 31 for the same. There is no PIN charge for children below 12 years.   3. Diving & Travel Insurance  When you are diving deep and covering multiple dives in a day, there can be an emergency. You may need urgent medical treatment or evacuation. A diving insurance will help in such scenarios.   You can look for liveaboard companies that already include free or paid insurance in their charges.   4. Nitrox Charges  Nitrox is important, and the luxury liveaboards already offer nitrox for free. However, if you are staying in a mid-range or budget liveaboard, you may need to pay around $15-25 for nitrox.   5. Gear Rentals   You need to pay extra charges to the liveaboard operator if you need to rent diving gear. Based on the gear you are renting, the cost will be around $5 to 30.   Many divers, that’s why choose to carry their own gear. However, that can be a concern for anyone traveling by flight. Noone wants to pay the baggage charges.   Raja Ampat Budget Diving: Should I Rent Or Bring My Gear?   It is always better to carry the light and essential gear for hygiene and to avoid extra expenses. Furthermore, you can ensure a comfortable fit if you are carrying your own mask, snorkel, and fins.   Among the large gear, the wetsuit is something that you must carry, and it is better to carry the Buoyancy Control Device (BCD). In fact, many diving centers offer you discounts if you carry your BCD and regulator.   Moreover, for visibility and safety, you must carry a Surface Marker Buoy (SMB), dive lights, and dive computers.  6. Crew Tips And Gratuities  Crew members work hard to make each trip a success. So, tipping is not mandatory, but it is a way to show gratitude to them.   The Crew tips are usually 10% of the total trip price.   The tip you pay is equally distributed among the crew members.  7. Flights And Transfers   You need to take a domestic flight from Jakarta or Bali to reach Sorong. The ticket charge is around $150 to $200. The return ticket fare is even higher, around $270 to $400.   From the Sorong publicport, Pelabuhan Rakyat, you need to take a public ferry (Bahari Express) to Waisai, which is the capital of the Waigeo Island. The ferries depart twice a day, at 9 AM and 2 PM.   The journey time is around 2 hours, and the ticket price is IDR 250,000 for an air-conditioned VIP ticket, and it is IDR 125000 for the economy class.  Moreover, if you are boarding a private charter boat from Sorong to Raja Ampat, the ticket price will be around INR 350000.   What Are The Expert Tips On Raja Ampat Budget Diving?   Cash or card? What’s more convenient in Raja Ampat? How should I remain connected throughout my Raja Ampat tours? Find answers to all these queries and more in this Expert Tips section.   1. Ride The Bahari Express  Never take a speedboat from Sorong to Waisai. The ticket for the air-conditioned section of these public ferries is even around 50% less than the speedboat ones.   Furthermore, it is faster and safer.   2. Stay On Kri Island  If you want to avoid the transport surplus charge, you must stay on Kri Island. It is close to famous diving sites such as Sardine Reef and Cape Kri.   3. Bring Your Own Mask & Computer  Rental gear can cost around $5 to $30, and renting the gear is not the most hygienic solution. So, you must bring your own mask and computer.   Moreover, many local shops offer a 10-15% discount if you have a full set of gear (BCD/Reg). Check airline baggage fees to see if the math works.  4. Sundays Are “No Dive” Days  Most local homestays and religious communities do not operate on Sundays. You can consider Sundays as your “Surface Interval” and use them for birdwatching or cultural exploration.   5. Try Local Food   Try fresh seafood, rice, and tropical fruits in Raja Ampat. Stick to Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice) or Pisang Goreng (Fried Bananas).   Meals are included in the homestay prices, and the homestays serve local food.   6. Buy The PIN At The Harbor  Buy the Marine Park PIN (Entry Fee) directly at the Waisai ferry port.  It will ensure that the money actually goes to conservation.  7. Negotiate "Walk-In" Dives  Are you traveling in the off-peak or low season from May to September? Arrive and discuss a dive package in person. Trust me! It works better than negotiations over email.   8. BYO Alcohol  Raja Ampat is a Muslim-Majority country, and alcohol is scarce and expensive here. A bottle of beer here can cost around $5 to $8. So, you must finish your duty-free alcohol shopping in Jakarta or Sorong before boarding the ferry.   9. Save On SIM Cards   You can avoid the hassle and cost of expensive international roaming by buying a Telkomsel SIM card at Sorong Airport. It is the only service provider to offer a reliable signal in the Raja Ampat islands.   The charge is $10 for 15 GB of data.   10. Take Advantage Of Shared Boats When Traveling Solo   You can join Facebook groups such as Raja Ampat Independent Travelers to make your travel costs even less.   Check the group 2 weeks before your trip to find people interested in splitting the $100+ boat transfers from Waisai to their island.  11. The Cash Vs. Card Warning  Budget homestays in Raja Ampat will only accept cash. You can use a budget calculator and know exactly how much IDR you will need. You can withdraw the amount at Sorong before leaving for Raja Ampat.   Raja Ampat Budget Diving: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Raja Ampat budget diving.   1. Is Shore Diving Possible In Raja Ampat?  Yes, shore diving is possible in Raja Ampat. If you are a beginner and want to explore the shallow waters (around 5 meters), shore diving is ideal for you.   Cape Kri and Arborek Jetty in the Dampier Strait and Waigeo in the north are the best locations for shore diving in Raja Ampat.   2. Is Shore Diving Free In Raja Ampat?  No, shore diving is not free in Raja Ampat. You will need to pay the boat fees and permits. You will also need to pay for the gear on rent.   However, if there is a snorkeling spot just off your homestay, you can do a free expedition without boat charges.   3. How Much Does A Budget Trip To Raja Ampat Cost?  A budget trip to Raja Ampat, focused on diving and snorkeling, will cost around $3000. This cost includes accommodation charges, mandatory park entry fees, transportation charges, and gear rental fees.   4. Is It Cheaper To Do A Liveaboard Or Stay On Land?  If you are a serious diver, staying in a liveaboard is a more reasonable option for you. You will get a budget liveaboard for around $2000 for a week.   Here, you don’t need to pay extra for the transport, and meals are included in the package. Moreover, being a home on the move, a liveaboard is time-efficient.   5. Can I Dive Without A Guard To Save Money?  Yes, if you are a certified diver, you can dive without a local guide to save money. However, a local guide will help you with local knowledge, such as the entry and exit points, intensity of the current, and potential hazards such as coral and marine life.   Furthermore, if you are diving deep, there are always risks of equipment failure or sudden changes in weather. Emergency response is crucial in these scenarios, and you will need a local guard.   6. Do Homestays Accept Credit Cards?  No, most homestays in Raja Ampat do not accept credit cards. You will have to pay in local currency or Indonesian Rupiah.   There are no ATMs in Raja Ampat. The last ATM you will get is at Sorong.   7. How Much Is A Single Dive In Raja Ampat?  A single dive in Raja Ampat will cost around $30 to $60. The expense will depend on the diving location and the gear you will be renting.   Furthermore, the liveaboard you will be staying in, the cost of transportation, and the diving group size will determine the cost of a single dive in Raja Ampat.   8. Do I Need To Tip In Raja Ampat?  There is no mandatory rule for tipping in Raja Ampat. However, there is a popular custom for paying tips to the crew members.   The tipping percentage is usually 10% of the total trip cost.   9. What Is The Cheapest Month To Fly To Sorong?  January, February, and October are the cheapest months to fly to Sorong. These are like transitional months, with the beginning or toward the end of the peak season.