Waisai is the Raja Ampat Regency capital and sits on the southern shore of Waigeo, which is the largest of the four big islands (‘Four Kings’) in Raja Ampat. Waisai is the second favorite entry point for Raja Ampat visitors because of its alternative airport of Marinda, which is rather convenient if you intend to explore the North of Raja Ampat. The busiest airport and main entry point to Raja Ampat remain Sorong.
Since Waisai location is on Waigeo island, it is a convenient entry point if you intend to island-hop further across the North of Raja Ampat, including Gam, Kri, Wayag, Fam, Kawe, and to incredibly remote Ayu islands. Waisai is also advantageous entry if you intend to explore breathtaking Mayalibit Bay, which is located directly on Waigeo island. Nevertheless, all flights to Waisai’s airport Marinda still happen via Sorong. Waisai offers various accommodation options, banks, and ATMs, cafes (many with free WiFi), 4G/3G data signal, a hospital, harbor, airport and government services. The town center is about a five-minute car or ojek (motorcycle taxi) ride from the port. Being a strategic location only, Waisai’s not the place to be if you’re after fabulous reefs, fabulous beaches, and untamed jungle: you need to sail away!
