Gam Island – Where Jungle Meets the Sea
- Remko Latten
- Oct 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 17

Between the calm turquoise waters of Raja Ampat and the dense green jungle lies one of the region’s most peaceful and fascinating islands — Gam Island. Here, nature and culture come together in perfect harmony. You can snorkel along vibrant coral reefs in the morning, trek through lush rainforest by midday, and listen to tropical birds sing at sunset.
Gam Island offers a glimpse of authentic Papuan life surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty — a destination for travelers who want to experience both the land and sea sides of Raja Ampat.
Highlights
Gam is located just west of Waigeo and close to Kri, Mansuar, and Arborek — making it an easy addition to any island-hopping route from Waisai. It’s known for its stunning coral reefs, small traditional villages, and rich wildlife — both above and below the water.
Top highlights include:
Birdwatching tours to see the rare Red Bird of Paradise in the wild
Peaceful Papuan villages where you can meet friendly locals
Excellent snorkeling and diving along coral slopes and calm bays
Dense jungle trails perfect for short hikes and nature photography
Quiet beaches where the forest meets the sea
What to See
Coral Reefs and Marine Life:
The reefs surrounding Gam are full of life — colorful soft corals, schools of reef fish, and occasional sightings of turtles or blacktip reef sharks. Snorkeling here is calm and easy, with plenty to see even in shallow water.
The Jungle and Wildlife:
Gam’s tropical rainforest is home to exotic bird species, including the famous Red Bird of Paradise, which performs its spectacular mating dance at dawn. You may also encounter hornbills, cockatoos, parrots, and butterflies along the forest trails.
Villages and Culture:
Small settlements like Yenbeser and Kapisawar offer a warm welcome to visitors.Here, life follows the rhythm of nature — fishing, crafting, and community gatherings by the sea. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the hospitality and simplicity of Papuan island life.
What Makes It Unique
Gam Island is special because it brings together everything that defines Raja Ampat — marine diversity, lush jungle, and genuine culture — all in one place.Unlike the more touristy islands, Gam feels authentic and quiet.You can spend a morning snorkeling in crystal-clear water, then wander through the forest to listen to the sounds of paradise birds.
It’s this rare combination of underwater beauty and wild rainforest that makes Gam is a balanced and memorable destinations in the archipelago. Here, you don’t just see Raja Ampat — you feel it.
How to Visit Gam Island
Getting there: About 30–40 minutes by boat from Villa Luzo in Waisai. Gam is on request included in our island-hopping tours with Luzo Boat Tours.
Best time to visit: All year round
What to bring: Comfortable shoes for short jungle walks, snorkeling gear, and a camera for wildlife photography.
Combine with: Kri, Arborek, or Friwen Islands for a full-day experience of both culture and coral.
Explore Gam Island with Luzo Boat Tours & Villa Luzo
At Luzo Boat Tours, we can Gam Island on request in our island-hopping routes. Our local guides know the best snorkeling bays. Jungle trails. Birdwatching is possible if you stay at a home stay at Gam.
After your adventure, return to Villa Luzo in Waisai, your peaceful home surrounded by nature. Relax in comfort, enjoy a local meal, and reflect on the incredible beauty of Raja Ampat.
Luzo Boat Tours – Explore. Relax. Remember.



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