To visit Raja Ampat Marine Park in 2026, international visitors must secure a Marine Park Entry Permit for IDR 700,000 (~USD 45) and a Visitor Entry Ticket for IDR 300,000, amounting to IDR 1,000,000 per person. These are essential for preserving the park’s natural beauty and infrastructure.
Ensuring you have the right permits and understanding the logistics for visiting Raja Ampat is crucial for a smooth journey. This guide covers everything you need for your 2026 trip, from permit fees to the best season for diving.
Raja Ampat Entry Permit
Marine Park Permit & Fees (2026)
In 2026, international visitors to Raja Ampat need:
- Marine Park Entry Permit (Conservation Fee): IDR 700,000 per person, valid for 12 months.
- Visitor Entry Ticket (Tourism Infrastructure Tax): IDR 300,000 per person, valid only for the specific visit.
- Indonesian Citizens: Pay IDR 425,000 for the Marine Permit and IDR 300,000 for the Visitor Ticket.
- Children Under 12: No permit required for either fee.
The permits can be purchased online via the BLUD UPTD website or in person at the BLUD UPTD office in Waisai. Payment is accepted via credit card, with the office open during ferry arrivals.
Logistics & Travel Times
Getting to Raja Ampat
Your journey begins with a flight to Sorong Airport (SOQ) in West Papua. From there, a speedboat will take you to Waisai, the heart of Raja Ampat, in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. For those heading to Komodo, fly to Labuan Bajo (LBJ).
Key Dive Sites
Raja Ampat offers a plethora of dive sites:
- Wayag – Known for its iconic karst island formations.
- Misool – A haven for diverse marine life.
- Dampier Strait – A hotspot for large schools of fish.
- Cape Kri – Home to the most recorded fish species in a single dive.
- Manta Sandy and Manta Point – Prime spots for manta ray sightings.
Best Season & Manta Timing
Optimizing Your Visit
The ideal time to visit Raja Ampat is between October and April, with the highest chance of spotting manta rays between December and March. This period offers the most favorable weather and water conditions.
Phinisi Liveaboard Realities
Choosing the Right Liveaboard
Liveaboard durations vary from 3 days/2 nights to 11 days/10 nights. Ensure your chosen phinisi is certified for diving operations and that the itinerary includes desired dive sites like Wayag or Cape Kri.
- Cabin Features: Ensuite cabins with private facilities.
- Onboard Crew: Includes a dedicated crew, chef, and dive deck.
For a detailed overview, visit our liveaboard page.
Komodo Liveaboard Highlights
Exploring Komodo’s Wonders
Komodo National Park offers unique diving experiences, with sites like Castle Rock and Crystal Rock renowned for their vibrant coral gardens and pelagic species.
- Rinca Island: Spot Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
- Pink Beach: Known for its unique pink sand and snorkeling opportunities.
- Current City: Dive with mantas and sharks.
Ensure your itinerary aligns with your diving interests, and check the liveaboard’s diving amenities.
Important Notes
Essential Information
Both the Marine Permit and Visitor Ticket are mandatory for entry. Ensure you arrange these permits before or upon arrival in Waisai to avoid any travel disruptions.
For an unforgettable diving experience in Raja Ampat, plan your liveaboard by contacting us via WhatsApp.
For more detailed travel information, check our guide on getting there and explore the diverse dive sites with our diving resources.
2026 Update: Ensure all permits are up-to-date and consider the peak seasons for the best experiences. Advance booking is recommended due to the region’s popularity among divers.