West Papua & Raja Ampat
West Papua is one of the most extraordinary destinations we’ve ever been to, but its remoteness means it won’t be right for everyone. However, if you’re keen to rekindle pioneering travels of the past, or just fancy a total culture shock and a chance to have an authentic adventure, then walk this way. Raja Ampat, just off West Papa’s northwest coast, is just as hard to reach, but the rewards are equally as special. Sail through the archipelago’s less-visited waters from September to March and discover Indonesia’s most remote and piercingly beautiful shores. Its inaccessibility has led to this off-grid archipelago garnering a fantastic reputation for diving, and the snorkelling in Raja Ampat is said to be some of the very best in Indonesia. We couldn’t agree more.
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Three things to do in West Papua & Raja Ampat
Refreshingly remote
At last, you finally touch down in Wamena, West Papua. Sitting on a small plastic seat and sipping the strongest cup of coffee imaginable, you begin to take stock. It’s like you’ve arrived at the last frontier. Kids on motorbikes drag by as market traders sit behind piles of sweet potatoes, bananas and boxes of glowing red chillies. You’re just 30 minutes’ drive from the agricultural highlands and forest covered slopes of Baliem Valley. This is the home of the Dani and Lani communities that live in relative isolation, way beyond the typical tourist trail. You take another sip of coffee, wait for your driver, and daydream about trekking trails, remote respite and untold adventures in the jungle.
Culture shock
It’s a short drive to the village, but the world that awaits makes it feel like you’ve travelled much further. As you arrive, you’ll see a scattering of thatch-roofed huts and villagers wearing traditional feather and bone-adorned dress amid wisps of campfire smoke. It’s a way of life that remains in only a few places in the world, though familiar elements of modern life now sit comfortably alongside the traditional. As you talk with the villagers, and learn about how their ancient culture has persisted through the centuries, you understand what a privilege it is to be welcomed as a visitor. Glimpsing the comings and goings of this community is an experience that will stay with you.
Snorkelling in Raja Ampat
As soon as you slip into the sea around Raja Ampat, you’ll be treated to one of the world’s greatest underwater spectacles. Thousand-year-old corals, some the size of a house, can be found just offshore as well as thousands of tropical fish of all shapes and sizes. Island hopping by traditional phinsi, or longer excursions on live-aboard boats, provide endless hours of entertainment for anyone with a snorkel mask and flippers. You can dive here, too, but many trips are centred around the extraordinary snorkelling, which can be more inclusive than diving for beginners and offers a glimpse of some of the region’s vital conservation projects. Stay in stilted, thatched, over-water bungalows or exclusive spa retreats, right on the water’s edge. Exclusive, barefoot luxury in one of the world’s true paradises.
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Inspiring experiences and places to stay…
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The Selective Asia difference
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Bespoke journeys tailored just for you
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Unparalleled local knowledge and expertise
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Award-winning, nose-to-tail service
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Responsible travel
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24 hour local support
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Our flexi-booking promise and financial clarity
No ordinary Travel Company
For us, travel is one of life's great privileges — one that should never be taken for granted. It’s about taking things slow — giving yourself time for thoughtful curiosity. Time to immerse yourself in your destination, get closer to the ground, and feel your way to greater understanding.
Fully protected and flexible bookings
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