Palau Travel Guide
Discover Why You Should Visit Palau
Why Visit Palau?
Palau is a paradise for nature lovers, divers, and cultural travelers. With over 500 islands, stunning marine biodiversity, and ancient traditions, it offers a rare blend of eco-adventure and peaceful island life. Its dedication to conservation and pristine environments makes it a unique destination in the Pacific.
Must-Know Facts
Capital/Major City: Ngerulmud (Capital), Koror (largest city)
Language(s): Palauan, English
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season)
Fun Fact: Palau was the first country to require an eco-pledge from visitors to protect its environment
Top Things to Do
Snorkel or dive in Jellyfish Lake and the Rock Islands
Explore WWII relics and underwater wrecks
Visit the Belau National Museum and Etpison Museum
Kayak through marine lakes and hidden lagoons
Swim in Milky Way Lagoon, known for its natural white clay
Local Culture & Lifestyle
Palauan culture is rooted in matrilineal traditions, respect for elders, and close-knit clans. Customary practices like storytelling, dance, and canoe building are preserved and celebrated. Community values and environmental stewardship are deeply ingrained in everyday life.
Food & Drink Highlights
Street Food: Grilled fish, taro, fried bananas, fruit salads
Restaurants: Serve Pacific-Asian fusion, including sashimi and local seafood dishes
Drinks: Coconut water, lemongrass tea, local beer
Desserts: Banana cake, tapioca with coconut milk
Main Dish & Culinary Symbols
Signature Dish: Tinola (fish soup with ginger and leafy greens)
Common Ingredients: Fish, coconut, taro, breadfruit, bananas
Culinary Culture: Meals are centered on fresh seafood and seasonal produce, often enjoyed communally
Symbols & Icons of the Area
Natural Icons: Rock Islands, Jellyfish Lake, coral reefs
Cultural Icons: Traditional bai (meeting houses), Palauan money beads
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
Ngardmau Waterfall for a lush jungle hike and natural pool
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, remnants of an ancient civilization
Eil Malk Island, home to secluded beaches and unique ecosystems
Ngatpang hot springs, a peaceful and little-known retreat
Shopping & Souvenirs
What to Buy: Storyboards (wood carvings), woven bags, shell jewelry
Where to Shop: Koror’s local markets, museum gift shops, and art centers
Getting Around
Public Transport: Limited; taxis are common in Koror
Car Rentals: Available in major towns
Boats: Charter boats for inter-island travel and marine tours
Flights: Domestic flights or boats connect outer islands
Travel Tips
Respect marine life and never touch coral
Adhere to the Palau Pledge and avoid single-use plastics
Pack lightweight clothing and reef-safe sunscreen
Book diving tours in advance during peak season
Where to Stay
Budget: Guesthouses and eco-lodges
Mid-range: Boutique hotels near Koror
Luxury: Oceanfront resorts and diving retreats
Unique: Overwater bungalows and jungle stays
Sample 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Koror, visit Belau National Museum, sunset at Milky Way Lagoon
Day 2: Snorkel in Jellyfish Lake, tour Rock Islands by kayak
Day 3: Dive WWII wrecks, relax at Ngardmau Waterfall
Day 4: Explore local markets, enjoy a traditional meal, visit the stone monoliths
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