Why tourists flock to this little-known Indonesian island instead of Bali: ‘The best place on earth’

A secret archipelago of aquamarine waters in Indonesia is a new tropical destination that Australians absolutely must visit, with visitors even calling it ‘heaven on earth’.

Raja Ampat, the ‘last paradise’ in the northwest of the country, is far from the beaten track but still only a three-hour flight or seven-day boat ride from the busy beaches of Bali.

This little-known location is a lush, jungle-clad utopia of 1,500 islands with bright white sand and a colorful coral reef, making for excellent diving.

Domi and Thomas, from 2problem travelers, shared the hidden paradise island that less than one percent of all tourists who visit Indonesia will ever reach.

“All you need to do is fly to Sorong International Airport, then take the ferry to Waisai Harbour and ask your host family to pick you up from there,” they said.

‘It’s the place with turquoise water, white sandy beaches, breathtaking views and an incredible underwater world.’

The unspoiled beauty of one of the world’s ‘last wild places’ has been compared by some to the beautiful fictional moon world Pandora from the Avatar films.

Guests visiting the remote islands call them the best places ‘in the universe’ and rave about the snorkelling, fishing and ‘incredible’ birdlife they can spot here.

Raja Ampat, meaning four kings, is a collection of 1,500 islands in northwestern Indonesia that travelers call the ‘last paradise’

Visitors to the hidden destination boast of swimming in the ‘most beautiful’ waters they’ve ever seen

A famous heart-shaped lagoon is located in Karawapop on Misool Island in Raja Ampat

Travelers also rent boats to island hop and explore hidden lagoons, or relax on protected beaches. But they can’t expect the same amenities as in Bali.

However, the ‘insanely beautiful’ Kri Island has limited running water and electricity.

There are no ATMs or credit card machines. You should bring all your spending money in cash and arrange accommodation in advance through a host family.

Pam Island features ‘magical’ crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches and recreational sports that keep visitors coming back again and again.

‘The diving was absolutely mind blowing. The people are so nice and friendly… it was just an incredible experience,’ said one.

Hiring small boats to go from island to island is the perfect way to explore the contiguous archipelago that makes up Raja Ampat

Travelers to the remote island called the white sand beaches and turquoise water “unreal” and among the best in the world

“We’ll definitely put this on our bucket list,” agreed another.

Some complained that the remote location made it “super expensive” for Indonesians to visit Raja Ampat, even though it is relatively close to Bali.

First-time visitors to the area are advised to stay at least a week. There are many budget-friendly options available, but some find that a visit can be pricey when you factor in food and accommodation.

Travelers emphasize that the remote location of the islands is precisely what makes them unique.

‘Pristine islands with dense forests, may it stay that way. Untouched and protected. Not easy to get to, but that’s okay,’ said one.

“I find that the places that are hardest to get to are usually worth it,” added another.