Sumatra's Raja Ampat
Dozens of islands in a calm bay.
Hardisman — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Hardisman — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Hardisman — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Fandi Yogari Saputra — CC BY-SA 4.0
A calm, winding bay on the Indian Ocean south of Padang, scattered with dozens of small forested islands in still green-turquoise water sheltered from the ocean swell, so that Indonesians call it the Raja Ampat of Sumatra, after the country's most celebrated archipelago. The day starts at the hilltop viewpoint above the bay, from which the whole archipelago lies spread out. Boats then leave Carocok Tarusan harbour on a tour of the islands: Sironjong with its towering rock, Cubadak, and others with small white-sand beaches, stopping to swim and snorkel over the reefs. Boats are hired for the whole group, not per person, starting from about IDR 750,000 to 850,000 for a boat taking twelve, rising with the number of islands and the distance. Agree the route, price and life jackets before setting off. The drive from Padang takes about an hour and a half, so allow a full day, start early, bring lunch or order it from the boatman, and pack modest swimwear and sun cream.
Dozens of islands in a calm bay.
The whole archipelago from the hill.
Still water and reefs.
Pesisir Selatan regency, about 55 km south of Padang
Yes: the bay's water is sheltered and calm on most days, and one boat takes the whole family. Insist on life jackets for children and avoid stormy days in the rainy season.