Airai - Discovering Palau

Travelling to Airai

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Airai, a pretty good destination in Palau (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Airai and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Airai, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Palau, here's everything to know about Airai for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Airai

Airai is a town located on the island of Babeldaob in Palau, a small island nation in the western Pacific Ocean. It is the second-largest town in Palau and serves as the capital of the country's largest state, Airai. Airai is known for its lush forests, scenic beaches and traditional village culture. The town is also home to the Airai Bai, a traditional meeting house built entirely without nails, which is a popular tourist attraction. Additionally, the nearby Ngardmau Waterfall and the hiking trails in the Palau National Park are must-visit attractions for nature lovers.

What to visit in Airai

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Airai, Palau and some information about them: 1. Bai ra Maireng - This is a traditional meeting house of Airai. It is a historic structure made of wood and palm fronds that served as a gathering place for the village's elders. Visitors can admire the ornate carvings and learn about traditional practices of Palauan culture.
2. Ngardmau Waterfall - This beautiful waterfall is located just outside of Airai and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The hike to the falls is short and easy, taking visitors through a lush jungle and offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
3. Airai Bai - This traditional village features some of the oldest and most well-preserved Palauan homes. Visitors can admire the unique architecture and learn about the history and culture of the area.
4. Ulong Island - Located just off the coast of Airai, Ulong Island is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can swim with a variety of marine life including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
5. Palau Aquarium - This aquarium is located in nearby Koror, but is a popular destination for Airai visitors. It features a variety of local marine life in different habitats including a touch pool and a tropical reef exhibit.
6. Carp Island - This small island just offshore from Airai features beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear water. Visitors can relax on the beach or explore the island's rocky outcrops and jungle trails.
7. Ziibai River Tour- Visitors can take an outrigger canoe tour of the Ziibai River, which winds through the lush jungle and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Guides provide insight into the flora and fauna of the area and the importance of the river to Palauan culture.
I hope this information helps you plan a great trip to Airai, Palau!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Palau, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Airai.

When to go on holiday to Airai

The best time to go on holiday to Airai (Palau) is between November and May when the weather is dry and temperatures are comfortable. The rainy season stretches from June to October, but even then there is still plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. However, intermittent rainfall can make outdoor activities more challenging during this time. Keep in mind that Palau is a popular destination, so it's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel months of December and January.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Airai

The best way to get to Airai, Palau is by flying to Palau International Airport (ROR), which is located in the state of Koror. From the airport, Airai is only a short 10 to 15-minute drive away. Several airlines offer flights to Palau International Airport, including United Airlines, Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. However, the most common and convenient way to get to Palau is through the national carrier, Palau Pacific Airways, which offers direct flights from several Asian cities, such as Seoul, Taipei, and Manila. Once you arrive at Palau International Airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Airai. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal, and car rental facilities are also located on-site.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Airai, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Airai

Airai is a small state in Palau that has a rich culinary culture that reflects its local traditions and influences from other Pacific Island nations. Here are some of the typical foods of Airai with a short description for each of them: 1. Balau: Balau is a local fish that is usually grilled or fried and served with rice and local vegetables.
2. Taro: Taro is a starchy root vegetable that is boiled and mashed into a paste to make a side dish called taro pudding. It is also used to make taro chips, which are thinly sliced and deep-fried.
3. Bat Soup: Bat soup is a traditional delicacy in Palau, where fruit bats are boiled with ginger, onions and vegetables to make a soup with a unique flavor.
4. Coconut Crab: The Coconut Crab is a large crab species found in the Pacific islands. It is typically grilled or baked with coconut milk and served with rice or vegetables.
5. Poached Fish Salad: Poached fish salad is a fresh and light dish made with poached fish fillets mixed with shredded coconut, cucumber, tomato, onion, and lime juice.
6. Rukau Stew: Rukau stew is made with taro leaves, coconut milk and meat such as pork or chicken. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is typically served with rice.
7. Cassava Cake: Cassava cake is a sweet dessert made with grated cassava, coconut milk, sugar and vanilla. It is baked until golden and served in slices.
These are just some of the typical foods of Airai that you can expect to try when visiting Palau.
You can find general info about typical foods in Palau here.

Is Airai an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Airai in Palau is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Palau is high, which tends to drive up prices for visitors. Additionally, because Palau's tourism industry is centered around ecotourism and outdoor activities, visitors often need to pay for guided tours or boats to access some of the more remote areas. However, there are some budget-friendly accommodations and activities available, such as staying in guesthouses or camping, and exploring the island's natural scenery on foot.

Where to find accomodation in Airai

Airai is a small town located in the southern region of Palau. Most of the tourist accommodations are concentrated in the nearby cities of Koror and Meyungs, which are less than a 30-minute drive from Airai.
Koror is the most popular destination for tourists in Palau, offering a range of accommodations from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. It has plenty of restaurants, shops, and activities to keep visitors occupied during their stay.
Meanwhile, Meyungs is a quieter and more peaceful area, with fewer tourists, and it's ideal for those who want a more relaxed atmosphere. It has few hotels and lodges in the area, and most of them are located near the state capitol, Ngerulmud.
Overall, Koror is the best place to find accommodation in Palau, but Meyungs is also a good option for those who prefer a more peaceful setting. Both areas are conveniently located for exploring Airai and other nearby attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Airai here:
Booking.com

Is Airai a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Airai, along with the rest of Palau, is considered a safe place for tourists. Palau has a low crime rate compared to other countries, and tourists can generally travel around the country without much concern for safety.
However, as with any place, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure your safety. This might include being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated or poorly-lit areas at night, and keeping your valuables secure.
In addition to personal safety concerns, it's important to note that Palau has strict environmental regulations to protect its unique ecosystems. These regulations may impact your travel plans, but they are in place to ensure that visitors can enjoy Palau's natural wonders for years to come.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Palau here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Airai.

What type of travelers will enjoy Airai the most?

Airai, located in Palau, is a beautiful place that offers an abundance of activities for different types of travelers. Couples and families with children who love exploring nature sites like waterfalls, lakes, and jungles will enjoy the scenic and serene environment of Airai. Young people who love water sports will also have a great time at Airai as it offers opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. Overall, Airai is an excellent destination for travelers who want to enjoy a peaceful and adventurous vacation, away from the hustle-bustle of city life.

How to get around Airai

The most common mode of transportation in Airai (Palau) is by renting a car. However, you can also use taxi services or book tours that include transportation. Bicycles and motorcycles are also available for rent, but be aware that the roads can be busy and sometimes narrow, so caution is advised. Walking is also an option if you're exploring the town center, but it's not recommended for longer distances or in the heat of the day.

What to see around Airai

Sure, here are a few nice places to visit in a day trip from Airai (Palau): 1. Ngardmau Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is located in Ngardmau State, about a 20-minute drive from Airai. It's a great spot for swimming and picnicking.
2. Ngarchelong Ancient Monoliths: This archaeological site features ancient monoliths that date back to the 15th century. It's about a 30-minute drive from Airai.
3. Jellyfish Lake: This unique spot is home to thousands of jellyfish that have evolved to lose their sting. It's located on Eil Malk island, about a 45-minute boat ride from Airai.
4. Ngermeaus Island: This small island is a great spot for snorkeling and diving, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of marine life. It's about a 30-minute boat ride from Airai.
5. Milky Way: This popular tourist attraction features white, powdery sands and crystal-clear waters that are said to have restorative properties. It's located on the island of Eil Malk, about a 45-minute boat ride from Airai.
For every travel information about Palau you can click here.

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