Raja Ampat – the "Pristine Big Pool"
Some travellers name Raja Ampat the last paradise on the
earth. I would say it is the lost world in some parts.... It is indeed a paradise should be protected and
preserved to be forever paradise. Here is the travel snapshot from my trip to Raja Ampat - the islands on the north tip of Indonesia's West Papua, in August 2014.
This express ferry will take us from Sorong to Waisai at Waigeo Island - where all journeys to Raja Ampat will start. It takes about 1,5 - 2 hours and costs about Rp.140.000 - Rp. 220.000,- depending on the class.
The VIP class seats. The ferry is clean (including the toilet - which is quite surprising).
The chartered boat transferring visitors from Waisai to the destined islands scattered in Raja Ampat. Prepared to be adventurous from this point (watch how we had to get on the boat - no proper stairway nor ramp)
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| by: Janice Tandiokusuma |
Pianemo - called as the mini Wayag (which is more well-known for its atolls and stunning views). However, this cluster of coral islands in Painemo is more easily accessible in terms of distance and less disturbance of bad weather & waves. Stairways to hike one of the islands was completed in June 2014. Once you're on the top of the hill, you will be "wow'ed by the view.
Anchoring at one of the islands at Pianemo.
The water is irresistible.
This is what I call as the 'lost world'. Cruising along the this will give a sensational feeling, especially if your boat is the only one drifting in this quiet area - a mixed feeling of awed, calm, peaceful, and anxious at the same time.
Look at the transparent water. We didn't swim here, yet we'll be able to view corals, spot turtles and fish - even carpet sharks. There is one spot at where we can find ancient fingerprints on one of the rocks in the bay.
