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RAJA AMPAT
Raja Ampat is located in West Papua province. This tourist spot is one of many “must
visit” tourist attractions in Indonesia. Travelers who like to spend most of their time
exploring the picturesque part of the earth will love Raja Ampat. The origin of the name Raja
Ampat is believed to be taken from a local legend.
Raja Ampat means “The Four Kings”. The legend
says that once upon a time there was a woman who
found seven eggs. Four of the eggs hatched. Later,
those children who were born from the eggs became
the kings of the four main islands. The four main
islands in Raja Ampat are Batanta, Misool, Salawati, and Waigeo. There are more than 1.500
small islands, cays, and shoals surrounding the four main islands. Because of this fact, Raja
Ampat is classified as an archipelago.
Raja Ampat is well-known underwater. The underwater biodiversity of Raja Ampat is
massive with around 540 types of corals, 700 types of mollusks, and more than 1.000 types of coral
fish. Moreover, The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International reported that around 75%
of the world's species live in Raja Ampat. This report solidifies that Raja Ampat is the archipelago
with the most diverse coral reef and underwater biota.
The beauty of Raja Ampat is not only about its underwater treasures but also its landscapes.
One would say the surface view is beyond words. Those rock islets, clear blue water, and bright blue
sky provide breathtaking vibes all around. The visitors who want to embrace Mother Nature will not
go home disappointed. The place is also famous for the thick jungle that is the home of many bird
species. Cendrawasih, one of the species that live in Raja Ampat, is nicknamed “Bird of Paradise”
because their beauty feels like not from this world. This unique bird becomes the symbol of Papua.