Raja Ampat Weather — Climate, Seasons & Best Time to Visit

Raja Ampat, located on the equator in Papouasie occidentale, Indonésie, enjoys a climat tropical that makes it a year‑round destination for diving, snorkeling, and island‑hopping adventures. Whether you’re planning a liveaboard trip across the archipelago or a stay at a resort, understanding the weather can help you make the most of your experience.

Year‑Round Warmth and Tropical Conditions

Because Raja Ampat lies almost directly on the equator, its temperatures stay warm and consistent tout au long de l'année. Daytime air temperatures average around 30–31°C (86–88°F), with nighttime lows around 24–26°C (75–79°F). Humidity is high, often around 80–85%, and daylight lasts about 12 hours a day year‑round. The ocean remains invitingly warm too, usually around 28–29°C (82–84°F), perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving without thick wetsuits.

Dry and Rainy Seasons Explained

Raja Ampat doesn’t have a sharp, long “monsoon off‑season” the way other Indonesian destinations do. Although the region experiences a so‑called dry and rainy season, rain can fall at any time of year — often in short, tropical downpours that quickly pass, rather than all‑day storms.

October to April — “Dry” Season

  • Considered the best overall period to visit by most travelers
  • Seas tend to be calmer and easier for boat travel between islands
  • Good conditions for liveaboards, island hopping, and diving
  • Weather is generally stable, with showers that are typically brief
  • November to February offers excellent underwater visibility and active marine life, including manta rays and reef fish sightings

May to September — Windier and Rainier Months

  • Higher chance of wind and choppier seas, especially from June to August
  • Rainfall increases, but showers are usually intermittent
  • Some liveaboard tours may avoid rougher open‑sea crossings during this period
  • Ideal for travelers who don’t mind less predictable weather and smaller crowds

Island Microclimates Make a Difference

Raja Ampat consists of over 1,500 islands, and each can experience slightly different conditions at the same time. It’s common to see sunshine on one island while rain falls just a few kilometers away. This variability — due to local microclimates — means you can often enjoy plenty of sun and clear water even during wetter months.

Sea and Wind Conditions Matter Most

For most travelers, wind and sea states are more important than rain when planning activities. Windy periods can make boat transfers between islands bumpier, especially for smaller vessels, but they don’t significantly impact underwater visibility. In fact, many divers find excellent underwater conditions even in windier months.

Choosing the Best Time for Your Trip

Here’s a quick guide depending on what you want from your visit:

  • 🐠 Best overall conditions: D'octobre à avril — calmer seas, good visibility, active marine life
  • 🌊 Calmer waters for boat travel: March to June ou November to December can be excellent shoulder seasons
  • 🧳 Fewer crowds & lower prices: The wetter months (May–September) often mean quieter attractions and sometimes discounted tours

Quick Tips for Travelers

  • Pack for tropical weather: lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and rain gear just in case
  • Boats may vary by weather: small‑boat transfers can be delayed during windier months
  • Even during rainier periods, snorkeling and diving remain world‑class thanks to Raja Ampat’s rich marine biodiversity

🌴 In Raja Ampat, weather is part of the adventure — warm seas, lush landscapes, and colorful reefs await visitors any time of year

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