Palau - Discovering Micronesia

Travelling to Palau

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Palau, a pretty good destination in Micronesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Palau 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 Palau, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Micronesia, here's everything to know about Palau for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Palau

Palau is a small island nation located in the western Pacific Ocean, northeast of Indonesia. It is part of the Micronesia region and consists of a group of islands, including the main island of Babeldaob and the tourist destination of Koror. Palau is known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, as well as its rich cultural heritage. The capital city is Ngerulmud and the official languages are Palauan and English. The currency is the US dollar and the population is approximately 21,000 people. Palau is a popular destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and adventure tourism.

What to visit in Palau

1. Rock Islands: These are over 200 limestone islands, some of which are surrounded by crystal clear waters making it an ideal place for diving and snorkeling.
2. Jellyfish Lake: Located on the famous rock islands of Palau, this lake is home to millions of jellyfish, which have evolved over time to lose their stinging ability due to the absence of predators.
3. Ngardmau Waterfall: Known locally as "the mother of all waterfalls", this towering waterfall is a must-see natural attraction in Palau.
4. Palau Aquarium: A popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts, Palau Aquarium offers a glimpse into the incredible underwater world of Palau's marine life. 5. Belau National Museum: It houses exhibits on Palauan culture and history, including traditional Palauan houses, artifacts, and photographs. 6. Kayangel Island: Located in the far north of Palau, Kayangel Island is home to a small community and offers stunning views of tropical landscapes and beaches.
7. Peleliu Island: A historic Island that played a significant role during WW-II, today it's known for its secluded beaches and natural beauty.
8. Ulong Island: This is the adventure capital of Palau, offering adventurous activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and diving.
9. Koror Island: The most populous island in Palau, Koror offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. 10. Badrulchau Stones: Palau's version of Stonehenge has towering monoliths that have stood for thousands of years, which were used as landmarks and burial sites by Palau’s earliest settlers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Micronesia, 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 Palau.

When to go on holiday to Palau

The best time to visit Palau (Micronesia) is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, with lower humidity and less rainfall. It is an ideal time to go diving or snorkeling as the water is clear and calm. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds.
The rainy season runs from May to October and brings heavy rain, high humidity, and the possibility of typhoons. Although the scenery is lush and beautiful during this time, it may affect outdoor activities. If you don't mind the rain and want to avoid the crowds, this could be a good time to visit as well.

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

How to get to Palau

To get to Palau, you will first need to fly to Palau International Airport, also known as Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, which is located outside of the capital city, Koror. There are a few airlines that operate flights to Palau from various destinations, including: - United Airlines - Asiana Airlines - Korean Air - China Airlines - Hong Kong Airlines You can check the airlines' websites or use a travel search engine like Expedia or Kayak to find the most convenient and affordable options for you. Palau is a small island nation in the western Pacific Ocean, so there may not be direct flights from your location. You may need to connect through another city in Asia or the US to get to Palau.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Palau, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Palau

Here are some typical foods from Palau (Micronesia) along with a brief description: 1. Bai Ebluk: This is a traditional Palauan dish made from taro leaves cooked with coconut milk, onion, and either meat or fish.
2. Challas Palau: This is a soup made with coconut milk, crab, vegetables, and spices. It is usually served with rice and lemon.
3. Cucumber Salad: This salad is made with cucumber, onion, vinegar, and salt. It is usually served as a side dish.
4. Pichi-Pichi: This is a steamed cake made from cassava and coconut milk. It is often served as a dessert.
5. Taro chips: These are thinly sliced taro roots that are deep-fried and seasoned with salt. They are a popular snack in Palau.
6. Kedongdong Juice: This is a refreshing drink made from the fruit of the kedongdong tree. It has a sweet and sour taste and is often served cold.
7. Skewered Chicken: This is a grilled chicken dish that is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It is often served with rice and vegetables.
8. Broiled Fish: This is a simple yet delicious dish made from fresh fish that is broiled with salt and pepper and served with lemon.
9. Tuna sashimi: This is a popular dish made from fresh tuna that is thinly sliced and served raw with soy sauce and wasabi.
10. Banana Fritters: This is a sweet snack made from ripe bananas that are coated in batter and deep-fried until crispy.
You can find general info about typical foods in Micronesia here.

Is Palau an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Palau is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists. This is primarily due to its remote location, limited infrastructure, and high import costs for goods and services. Accommodation, transportation, and food can be quite pricey, especially during peak travel season (December to March).
That being said, there are budget-friendly options for travelers to Palau, such as camping and homestays. It's also worth noting that the stunning natural beauty of Palau's islands and marine environment make it a unique and unforgettable destination worthy of its cost.

Where to find accomodation in Palau

In Palau, most of the accommodations are located in the main town of Koror, which is easily accessible from the airport and offers a variety of hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and hostels. Other options for accommodations are available on some of the smaller islands, such as Peleliu and Ngeruangel, which offer quieter and more secluded options for travelers. It's important to note that Palau is a small island nation, and most attractions are easily reachable within the main island of Koror, making it easy to find a great place to stay.
You can check hotel prices at Palau here:
Booking.com

Is Palau a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Palau is considered a safe place for tourists. It has low crime rates, and locals are known to be friendly and welcoming. However, visitors are advised to take normal precautions like they would in any foreign country, such as being aware of their surroundings, keeping valuables in a safe place and avoiding isolated areas at night. It is also recommended to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs to avoid any misunderstandings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Micronesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Palau.

What type of travelers will enjoy Palau the most?

Palau is a beautiful destination that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, but it particularly appeals to adventurous travelers who love scuba diving, snorkeling, and exploring pristine natural environments. Couples seeking a romantic getaway will find Palau's secluded beaches and peaceful atmosphere quite appealing. There are plenty of scenic spots that are perfect for watching the sunset and enjoying a romantic evening together.
Young people looking for fun can also find plenty of activities in Palau. The island's vibrant nightlife scene offers a range of bars and clubs where visitors can socialize and dance the night away.
Families can also have a great time in Palau. The island is home to several kid-friendly attractions, such as the Palau Aquarium, Dolphin Bay, and Jellyfish Lake. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling together.
Ultimately, Palau is an ideal destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure, and wants to experience a unique culture.

How to get around Palau

In Palau, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the islands. These include rented cars, scooters, and bicycles. Taxis and bus services are also available, but they are relatively less common and operate on specific routes. Water taxis and boat tours are another popular way to explore Palau's numerous islands and dive sites.

What to see around Palau

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Palau: 1. Rock Islands: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a group of small islands, surrounded by clear blue waters. You can go island hopping, snorkeling or scuba diving and explore the vibrant marine life.
2. Jellyfish Lake: This is a unique experience, where you can swim with thousands of harmless jellyfish in a saltwater lake. 3. Peleliu Island: This island is a historical site where one of the bloodiest battles of WWII was fought. You can visit the museum and explore the WWI-era relics and unspoiled beaches. 4. Ngardmau Waterfall: This waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great spot for a picnic. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also go trekking to reach the waterfall.
5. Kayangel Island: This small island is known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. You can go snorkeling, diving or simply relax on the beach. I hope you find this helpful!
For every travel information about Micronesia you can click here.

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