Kabui Bay separates Gam and Waigeo islands. Here the rainforest meets the reef in a labyrinth of limestone islets teeming with wildlife and birds-of-paradise. Kabui bay promises spectacular seascapes, especially across a narrow strait that is called The Passage, which opens a gateway to the northern islands of Raja Ampat.
Kabui Passage
The Passage is a narrow, river-like strait at Kabui Bay, where the blue mangroves and rainforest meets the reef in a maze of limestone cliffs. Described by Alfred Russel Wallace as, “One of the most picturesque landscapes I have ever seen,” not much has changed since his voyage across Kabui Bay in 1860. Its nutrient-rich waters are drawn through the tides at a rapid rate, supporting a wealth of marine biodiversity – making The Passage a famed diving and snorkeling site. This 20-meter-wide channel between Waigeo and Gam sees archerfish, nudibranchs, sponges, turtles, sharks, rays, and bumphead parrotfish schools. Explore this unbelievable waterway by kayak, but be sure to have your camera out. There is nothing quite like the emergence of mushroom islands from tranquil water.
Kabui viewpoint
By the entrance to The Passage, there is a viewpoint that you should visit. After a short hike, a panoramic view of Kabui Bay’s karst islands is breathtaking. You’ll understand what Alfred Wallace meant by one of the most unique and picturesque landscapes. These karst formations jutting out of the water between Gam Island and Waigeo, covered with tropical vegetation and mangrove forests. Despite the concealed nature of Kabui Bay, the trekking is not difficult. Ask a local guide for directions and prepare to be amazed. And if you feel like more of untapped wilderness, kayak north of Kabui Bay where so-called Pencil Rock (Batu Pensil) promises extra photo opportunities.
