Scuba Diver Ocean Planet Issue 04/2016 | Page 95

PRACTICALITIES WHEN Raja Ampat is a year-round destination. The high season is October to April, while the seas can be choppy from June to August. HOW Connect through Sorong in Raja Ampat from four international Indonesian airports in Jakarta, Makassar, Bali or Manado. A daily ferry runs from Sorong to Waisai, where your resort will pick you up and take you to Gam Island. STAY/DIVE • Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort www.rajaampatbiodiversity.com TOPSIDE There are many attractions for surface intervals or non-diving days. The snorkelling all round the island is incredible, or hire kayaks to explore around the islands. Local guides will be delighted to show you round traditional villages like Friwen and Yenbeser. Alternatively, head off for a jungle trek and visit the rare red birdof-paradise found only in this area of West Papua. ENTRY It is advisable to check the Indonesian Government current visa information as the rules do change. Depending on your passport, there are currently three options to enter Indonesia: • No visa required – for the majority of countries there is free entry, valid for 30 days and non-extendable • Visa on arrival – $35, valid for 30 days and can be extended once for 30 days • Visa required – apply abroad before arriving in Indonesia IMPORTANT An entry permit tag is required to enter Raja Ampat Marine Park: • International citizens – IDR1,000,000 (approx. US$100) • Indonesian citizens – IDR500,000 (approx. US$50) • Permit valid for 12 months from date of purchase • Children under 12 years of age do not require a permit