Visit Raja Ampat’s Famous Piaynemo Islands

Known for its incredible beauty and mind-blowing array of species above and below water Raja Ampat is a dream holiday destination. There are thousands of places to stop and enjoy the scenery but one in particular has caught the attention of photographers, instagrammers and travelers from all over the world. Located in the Fam group, Piaynemo is a small cluster of islands that are the absolute epitome of paradise.

Getting to Piaynemo

Piaynemo is a couple of hours by boat from Papua Paradise Eco Resort so it is usually visited as part of a full day diving trip. Taking time on a surface interval during the Fam Island Day Trip to see the sights from a new point of view is ideal.

If you’re traveling independently around Raja Ampat, you can get a boat from Waisai to Piaynemo in around 2 hours. Do be very careful though as smaller fishing boats and speedboats are sometimes not equipped for the trip.

Although the trip is quite long, the views are spectacular and you’ll be astounded with the clarity of the water, the stunningly lush islands dotted around, and the marine and bird life that live here.

What You’ll Find at Piaynemo

When you arrive at Piaynemo your boat will anchor at the small dock at the bottom of scrubby cliffs. Looking up you’ll find yourself faced with what looks like a big climb. However, the 300 stairs are in good repair and aren’t so difficult to climb.

There are also a number of small stalls where you can buy coconuts and snacks. A refreshing coconut goes down a treat after the climb to the viewpoint at Piaynemo.

The real aim of this trip of course is to get to the top and look out over one of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see. From the viewpoint you’ll see the small islands rising up out of crystal clear water. Even though this is one of the most visited attractions in Raja Ampat, you will probably be looking out to quiet waters with only a few boats dotting the bays.

One of the most impressive views is looking out over Telaga Bintang or Star Lagoon. This is a beautiful star-shaped lagoon that makes for a gorgeous backdrop to your photos.

What You Need for This Trip

As this is usually part of a day of scuba diving, you won’t be able to take much with you, and thankfully you don’t need much. A pair of trainers or light hiking boots is best for climbing the stairs, although many people just wear sandals. A hat and sunscreen are musts and you’ll also want to take water to stay hydrated. If you’re on a trip with Gangga Divers from Papua Paradise Eco Resort you will be supplied with water and snacks.

One thing you will definitely want to take with you is a camera! This is one of the most beautiful places in the world so make sure you can take the memories home with you in photo form.

If you’d like more information about booking your Piaynemo trip, leave us a comment in the box below. We’d love to make this bucketlist trip come true!