Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the Raja Ampat Marine Protected Area (Indonesia) spans over 4 million hectares and includes approximately 1,500 islands.
A Paradise on Earth
According to CNN, Raja Ampat is noted for its richest marine biodiversity on Earth and its relatively isolated position has earned it the title of “the last paradise on Earth.” It is home to over 1,600 species of fish, while about 75% of the coral species known worldwide can be found in this sanctuary.
Max Ammer, founder of the diving company Papua Diving, stated: “There are endless beautiful areas and hundreds of stunning coral gardens.“
Witnessing the vibrant Raja Ampat of today, few would think that about 20 years ago, it was declining due to uncontrolled commercial fishing and unsustainable activities. Fortunately, many conservation initiatives emerged, helping fish populations rebound, reducing poaching by approximately 90%; coral has recovered, and notably, shark populations have returned to these tranquil waters.
“Colorful” marine life in Raja Ampat. (Photo: CNN)
About two decades ago, when Dr. Gerry Allen of Conservation International was diving at the Cape Kri reef in the Raja Ampat reserve, he could only count 327 fish species in a single dive. A decade later, that number had risen to 374 species in just 90 minutes.
When asked about his favorite diving spots in Raja Ampat, Ammer mentioned that the list is nearly endless.
“I am always amazed by the scenery around me while diving. I wonder if I am dreaming.“
In addition to the famous Cape Kri reef, the Sardines Reef is said to have “so many fish that they sometimes block out the sunlight.”
That’s underwater; above the surface, Raja Ampat also has many surprises for visitors.
Tiny droplets like mushroom buds cover the pitcher plants and wild orchids.
The largest terrestrial arthropod, the coconut crab, can be found in the underbrush, while rare birds like the sulfur-crested cockatoo and hornbills soar overhead. Dense mangroves serve as nurseries for juvenile fish and as a hiding spot for flying foxes or fruit bats.
On land, hiking trips offer visitors breathtaking views of iconic limestone islands and lush, emerald green lagoons.
Dreamlike Images in Raja Ampat
“I often find myself amazed by the scenery around me while diving. I wonder if I am dreaming,” Ammer said. (Photo: CNN)
Raja Ampat is home to over 1,600 species of fish and about 75% of the coral species known worldwide. (Photo: CNN)
Witnessing the vibrant Raja Ampat of today, few would think that about 20 years ago, it was declining due to uncontrolled commercial fishing. (Photo: CNN)
Located in the northwest extremity of West Papua province in Indonesia, the Raja Ampat Marine Protected Area spans over 4 million hectares and consists of around 1,500 islands. (Photo: CNN)
Visitors diving in Raja Ampat. (Photo: CNN)
