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West Papua Travel Checklist

West Papua Travel Checklist

West Papua Indonesia Travel Guide

Essential Pre-Trip Overview

A structured timeline supports all required preparations.

Planning Milestones and Actions

Breaking down your trip preparation into manageable steps.

M1

Months Ahead 3-6

Passport & Visa

Confirm validity and apply for e-Visa or traditional visa if needed.

Flights

Book international flights to Indonesia and domestic flights to Sorong (SOQ).

Accommodation

Book Raja Ampat homestay/resort for peak season. Secure dive packages.

M2

Weeks Ahead 4-1

Health & Insurance

Consult health clinic for vaccinations/malaria. Arrange Travel insurance.

Currency

Arrange Indonesian Rupiah or plan ATM withdrawals. Inform bank.

Packing Essentials

Purchase Reef-safe sunscreen, Insect repellent, Packing organizers and a Dry bag.

D-1

Day Before & On Arrival

Final Checks

Reconfirm flights, charge electronics, organize essential documents. Notify family of itinerary.

On Arrival

Clear immigration, collect luggage, withdraw cash, purchase local SIM (Telkomsel), buy Raja Ampat PIN tag.

Transport

Take Sorong airport taxi to ferry port. Board public ferry to Waisai. Use pre-arranged boat transfer to island.

Bookings & Research

Timely bookings and thorough research simplify your trip.

Required Advance Bookings

  • International flights to Indonesia.
  • Domestic flights (to Sorong).
  • Raja Ampat accommodation (homestay/resort/liveaboard).
  • Initial boat transfers (Sorong-Waisai ferry, Waisai-Homestay).

Pre-Trip Research & Home Prep

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

  • Perform detailed research on Raja Ampat Marine Park regulations.
  • Investigate specific dive site conditions if you plan to dive.
  • Learn about the cultural hints of local Papuan communities.
  • Notify family or friends of your itinerary.

Arrival and Departure Flow

Smooth transitions upon entering and exiting West Papua.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration.
  • Collect your luggage.
  • Withdraw sufficient cash (IDR).
  • Purchase local SIM card.

Orientation & Local Purchases

  • Locate pre-arranged transport.
  • Confirm ferry schedule.
  • Inform homestay/resort of arrival.
  • Buy Raja Ampat PIN tag.

Departure Logistics

  • Souvenir and shipping considerations.
  • VAT refund procedures (if applicable).
  • Pre-departure timing recommendations.
  • Return trip packing and luggage checks.

Important Reminders

Ensure your passport maintains validity for at least six months beyond your departure date from Indonesia.

Travel Essentials & Best Practices

Detailed guidance for a comfortable and respectful journey.

Responsible Travel Principles

  • 1
    Support Locals:

    Choose local homestays and purchase handicrafts to support communities.

  • 2
    Minimize Waste:

    Use reusable bottles/bags and properly dispose of or carry out waste.

  • 3
    Respect Nature:

    Conserve water/electricity, use reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid touching marine life.

Cultural Etiquette & Engagement

  • Photography:

    Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children.

  • Dress Code:

    Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or sacred sites.

  • Local Language:

    Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases to show politeness and willingness to connect.

Emergency and Safety Guidelines

Contacts

General Emergency: 112. Police: 110. Ambulance: 118. Search & Rescue (BASARNAS): 115.

Keep these numbers accessible.

Medical Facilities

RSUD Sorong is the main public hospital. Waisai has a basic public health center. Raja Ampat islands lack hospitals.

Nearest hyperbaric chambers are in Manado or Bali.

Official Assistance

Your country's embassy resides in Jakarta; keep their contact details readily available.

Register your trip with your embassy's travel program.

Important Safety Tip

For diving incidents, emergency evacuation is a critical consideration due to remote locations and limited local facilities.

Departure and Souvenirs

Planning your exit and bringing home memories.

Souvenir Best Practices

  • Buy souvenirs directly from local artisans in villages to support them.
  • Shipping items from West Papua is difficult and expensive; plan to carry items in your luggage.
  • Ensure souvenirs comply with international customs regulations (e.g., no protected marine products).
  • Indonesia has VAT, but a refund scheme for tourists is not widely implemented or practical for typical purchases.

Departure Timing & Logistics

  • Allow generous buffer time for transfers from Raja Ampat to Sorong airport.
  • Arrive at Sorong airport at least 1.5-2 hours before your domestic flight departure.
  • Confirm all onward flights.
  • Pack carefully, confirming your luggage meets weight limits for domestic flights.

Essential Documents for Departure

Confirming all your papers are in order for a smooth exit.

Document Checklist

  • Passport:Valid for 6+ months beyond departure
  • Visa:Confimed and ready
  • Flight Tickets:All confirmed
  • Insurance Policy:Accessible and valid

Home Preparation Checklist

  • Notify family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Arrange for pet care.
  • Arrange for mail handling.
  • Ensure house security measures are in place.

Final Confirmation

Before departure, reconfirm all flights and transportation to West Papua.

Charge all electronics and power banks, and organize essential documents for easy access.