In a nutshell? Don't argue - just pay or leave. At some locations in Raja Ampat you may be asked to pay an entry fee by representatives of local communities. These are usually charged per boat, not per person, and are levied at several popular locations, including at Wayag and Piaynemo.
It is also expensive in comparison to other Indonesian destinations due to its location in the far east of the Country, next to Papua New Guinea. Is it possible to visit Raja Ampat on a budget? Let me help you visit this slice of heaven on earth for only a fraction of the cost. Why visit Raja Ampat?
How to get to Sorong, West Papua. From Jakarta there are direct flights nowadays: PT. Nam Air flies directly from Jakarta to Sorong in 4h 5min and is the budget option for around $80 one-way. Garuda Indonesia flies also directly from Jakarta to Sorong in 4h 15min but will cost 3 times as much: $250 one-way.
With the growing popularity of Raja Ampat (although it still is logistically hard and expensive to get to), homestays and day dives are now also possible. However, the best way to see, discover, and make the most out of your trip to Raja Ampat is hands down by doing a liveaboard.
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