Waisai is the capital of Raja Ampat Regency, on the southern side of Waigeo Island. Founded in 2003 it is home to around 10,000 people it is a transit point for many who wish to visit Raja Marine Park. Accessible by ferry from Sorong, Waisai is a well laid out town with friendly local people.
Waisai is the final and closest location to the Marine Park for these facilities and services. Waisai is also the location of the Marine Park Authority Headquarters, and the closest location to the Marine Park where visitors can purchase their Marine Park Entry Card (LPJL)
Whilst not the capital, Sorong is an important checkpoint for entering Raja Ampat. The name ‘Sorong’ originates from the word Soren, whiche means “deep and wavy ocean” in the language of the Biak tribe, the original people of the area, who travelled to numerous islands in the region before choosing to settle in Raja Ampat.