Ultimate Palau Travel Cheat Sheet 2025: A Local's Guide to Paradise in Micronesia - Xplrverse

Introduction: Why Palau Stole My Heart

The first time I stepped off the plane at Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) back in 2017, I had no idea Palau would become my annual escape. That initial overwhelm as humidity wrapped around me like a blanket, quickly gave way to awe as I caught my first glimpse of those impossibly blue waters. Eight visits later, I still get emotional watching the emerald Rock Islands materialize beneath the plane – a scene that never gets old no matter how many times I return.

What started as a diving trip has evolved into a deep connection with this Micronesian paradise. I’ve made friends with local guides who now save my favorite bungalow, learned enough Palauan to make shopkeepers laugh (mostly at my pronunciation), and discovered hidden corners that most one-week visitors never see. After my most recent three-week stay in January 2025, I realized it was time to compile everything I’ve learned into this comprehensive guide.

This isn’t just another tourist guide to Palau. This is the resource I wish I’d had before my first visit – filled with practical hacks, money-saving tips, and the kind of local knowledge that can transform a good vacation into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re planning to dive the Blue Corner, kayak the Rock Islands, or simply find the best places to eat like a local in Koror, I’ve got you covered.

Essential Planning: When to Go & What to Budget

Timing your visit to Palau can make a tremendous difference to your experience. After multiple visits across different seasons, I’ve found the sweet spots that balance good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.

The Perfect Timing for Your Visit

Palau has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons:

High Season (December-April): Driest months with excellent visibility for diving. Expect temperatures around 80-90°F (27-32°C). This coincides with winter breaks in Japan and Taiwan, making it busier and pricier.
Shoulder Season (May and November): My personal favorite time to visit! Weather is still mostly favorable with occasional short rain showers, but you’ll find significant discounts on accommodation and dive packages. I saved nearly 30% on my November 2024 trip compared to my February visit earlier that year.
Low Season (June-October): The rainiest period, but don’t dismiss it entirely. Morning dives still offer decent visibility, and you’ll have many sites nearly to yourself. Underwater photographers might actually prefer this time for capturing manta rays and sharks that are more prevalent.

Pro Tip: Avoid booking during Golden Week (late April/early May) and Chinese New Year (January/February, varies yearly) when prices spike and popular dive sites get crowded with tourists from Asia.

Budget Expectations for 2025

Palau isn’t a budget destination by Pacific standards, but smart planning can stretch your dollar. Here’s what I spent during my January 2025 trip:

Expense Category	Budget Range (USD)	Notes
Accommodation	$65-250/night	Guesthouses to luxury resorts
Food	$8-30/meal	Local eateries to tourist restaurants
Dive packages	$150-200/day	Usually includes 2-3 dives
Rock Islands tour	$100-150	Full day with snorkeling spots
Permits	$100	Rock Islands/Jellyfish Lake permit (valid 10 days)
Green Fee	$100	Required departure tax and conservation fee
Car rental	$45-80/day	Essential for exploring Babeldaob

A comfortable one-week trip with daily activities will typically cost $2,000-3,000 per person excluding flights. This might seem steep, but I’ll share my insider saving tips throughout this guide.

Money-Saving Hack #1: Book a package through Sam’s Tours or Fish ‘n Fins that includes accommodation and diving. I saved over $400 on my last trip by bundling versus booking separately. Always email them directly rather than booking through their websites – they often offer unadvertised discounts.

Getting to Palau & Getting Around

Flight Routes and Tips for 2025

Transportation options to Palau have improved since the post-pandemic travel recovery. As of 2025, regular flights to Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) operate from:

United Airlines: Via Guam and Manila
Japan Airlines: Direct from Tokyo (3 times weekly)
China Airlines: Via Taipei (increased to 5 weekly flights in 2025)
Korean Air: Via Incheon (recently resumed service)

I’ve tried all these routes, and my insider advice is to fly through Taipei if possible. China Airlines offers the most reliable service with newer aircraft, and Taipei Airport provides a more pleasant layover experience than Guam or Manila.

Money-Saving Hack #2: Set fare alerts on Skyscanner or Google Flights at least 4-5 months before your trip. I’ve found Tuesday bookings typically offer the best rates, and flying mid-week rather than weekends can save $150-200 on the round trip.

Ground Transportation Options

Palau’s main island of Koror is relatively small, but having transportation is essential for maximizing your visit:

Taxis: Available in Koror, but expensive by local standards ($10-15 for even short trips). Always confirm the fare before getting in.
Car Rentals: From $45-80/day depending on vehicle type. I recommend Hertz or the locally-owned Belau Rental. Book at least two weeks ahead during high season.
Scooters: Available for around $30/day – a great option if you’re comfortable riding and want to explore Koror and Airai.
Hotel Shuttles: Most resorts offer airport pickups and scheduled trips to downtown Koror, though these may be limited to certain hours.

During my last trip, I saved money by splitting my stay – I didn’t rent a car while staying in Koror (everything is walkable), then rented one for just 3 days when I moved to a hotel near Airai to explore Babeldaob island.

Here’s the location of the main car rental agencies in Koror:

Where to Stay: Accommodation Guide

Over my multiple visits, I’ve stayed in everything from budget guesthouses to luxury overwater bungalows. Here are my honest recommendations for different budgets and travel styles in 2025:

Budget-Friendly Options ($65-120/night)

DW Motel: My go-to budget option in downtown Koror. Nothing fancy, but clean rooms with A/C, free WiFi, and a small refrigerator. The location is unbeatable – walking distance to restaurants and dive shops. Ask for an upper floor room for better views and less street noise.
Palau Central Hotel: Slightly more upscale than DW but still affordable. Their included breakfast is substantial, which saved me money on morning meals. Some rooms were renovated in late 2024.
Pirates Hostel: The only true hostel in Palau, offering dorm beds around $35/night. I stayed here on my first trip and met great diving buddies. They also have private rooms for couples/friends traveling together.

Mid-Range Comfort ($120-200/night)

Cove Resort Palau: My personal favorite in this category after their 2023 renovation. Gorgeous infinity pool overlooking Rock Islands, modernized rooms, and excellent on-site restaurant. They offer free shuttles to downtown Koror several times daily.
Lehn’s Hotel: Apartment-style accommodation with kitchenettes – perfect for longer stays. I saved significantly on food costs by cooking breakfast and some dinners here. Location is a bit away from downtown but within walking distance.

Luxury Experiences ($200-500+/night)

Palau Pacific Resort: The grand dame of Palauan luxury with a pristine private beach and overwater bungalows. Worth the splurge for their Japanese-inspired spa alone. I treated myself to three nights here after a week of budget accommodations on my 2024 trip.
Intercontinental Palau: The newest luxury addition that opened in late 2023. Stunning modern design blended with Palauan cultural elements. Their sunset bar offers the best cocktails in Palau.

Money-Saving Hack #3: Consider splitting your stay between budget and luxury properties. I typically book 5-6 nights at a budget place for the diving portion of my trip (when I’m barely in the room), then finish with 2-3 nights somewhere special. This strategy saved me around $600 on my last 10-day visit while still getting the luxury experience.

Unique Accommodations Worth Considering

For something different, check out these special options:

Caroline’s Resort: Situated on Babeldaob island away from the Koror bustle. Their traditional-style bungalows offer an authentic experience with modern comforts. The night sky here is incredible for stargazing.
Coco’s Resort: Small family-run property with just 6 bungalows featuring a pier into a secluded lagoon. I’ve stayed here twice and love the personal service – the owner Tova remembers returning guests and their preferences!

One location mistake I made on my first trip: booking accommodation far from Koror to “escape the city,” only to realize that most tours and dive trips depart from downtown Koror marinas. Unless you’re specifically planning a remote escape, stay within or close to Koror for convenience.

Diving in Palau: World-Class Sites & Practical Tips

Let’s be honest – diving is likely your primary reason for visiting Palau. With over 60 dives across my multiple trips, I’ve experienced most of Palau’s underwater treasures in different seasons and conditions. Here’s my unfiltered guide to making the most of your diving experience in 2025.

Must-Dive Sites: Beyond the Obvious

Everyone knows about Blue Corner and German Channel, but here are my personal favorites that deliver consistently spectacular experiences:

Ulong Channel: My absolute favorite drift dive in Palau. Time it right with the incoming tide, and you’ll glide effortlessly past stunning coral formations and schools of sharks. The giant clams near the entrance are over 100 years old!
Siaes Tunnel: An unforgettable multi-level dive with dramatic swim-throughs illuminated by ethereal blue light. In March 2024, I spotted a rare leopard shark resting inside the main cavern.
Peleliu Wall: Worth the longer boat ride. The sheer drop-off into the Philippine Sea features incredible visibility (often 30m+) and the chance to see pelagics like hammerheads and marlin that don’t frequent the more popular sites.
Chandelier Cave: A unique cave diving experience suitable even for novice divers. Five connected air chambers with stunning stalactite formations. Bring a good underwater torch!
Jake Seaplane: Not Palau’s most famous wreck, but my personal favorite for photography due to excellent natural lighting and the intact cockpit.

Local Phrase: “Ke kmal mesaul” (pronounced kay-kmal meh-sa-ul) means “thank you very much” in Palauan. Your dive guides will appreciate you learning this simple phrase!

Choosing the Right Dive Operator

Palau has several excellent dive operations, but they do differ in style, boat quality, group sizes, and specialty areas:

Sam’s Tours: My most-used operator across multiple trips. Professional setups, small groups (max 6-8 divers per guide), and knowledgeable staff. Their boats are well-maintained with proper safety equipment. Their Unique Dive Sites package accesses some lesser-known spots.
Fish ‘n Fins: The oldest dive operator in Palau with similarly high standards. Their specialized photography boats include camera tables and extra space. Slightly more expensive but worth it for serious underwater photographers.
NECO Marine: Often runs smaller boats which can be an advantage for accessing tight sites. Their Japanese-speaking guides make them popular with Asian tourists.
Solid Dive Palau: A newer operation that has impressed me on my last two visits. More flexible with dive planning and timing, which I appreciate as an experienced diver.

Practical Diving Tips from Experience

Here are some hard-earned lessons from my diving experiences in Palau:

Book a package instead of daily trips: Most operators offer 3, 5, or 7-day packages that are 15-20% cheaper than booking individual days. I typically book a 5-day package and add specialty dives like Chandelier Cave separately.
Pack a reef hook: Essential for famous current dives like Blue Corner. If you don’t have one, operators will rent them for $5-10, but having your own is more convenient.
Bring a surface marker buoy (SMB): Some sites have strong surface currents where you might surface away from the boat. An SMB is a safety essential here.
Consider a 5mm wetsuit even in tropical water: Palau dives often include deeper segments and multiple dives per day. I found myself getting chilly in my 3mm after the second dive, especially during December-February when thermoclines are more pronounced.
Nitrox is worth it: With most dive profiles including depths of 18-30m and multiple dives daily, Nitrox significantly extends your bottom time and reduces fatigue. The $10-15 extra per tank is money well spent.

Money-Saving Hack #4: If diving is your priority, consider visiting during the shoulder season (May or November). Dive packages are often discounted by 20-30%, visibility is still excellent (25m+ on most days), and you’ll have iconic sites like Blue Corner with half the divers compared to peak season.

Beyond Diving: Land Adventures & Cultural Experiences

While Palau’s underwater world gets most of the attention, I’ve discovered some remarkable terrestrial experiences that many visitors overlook. After all, you can’t dive 24/7!

Rock Islands Southern Lagoon Excursions

The UNESCO-listed Rock Islands are Palau’s signature landscape. Here’s how to experience them properly:

Full-day tours: The standard option covering Jellyfish Lake, Milky Way, Long Beach, and several snorkeling spots. I recommend IMPAC Tours for smaller groups and flexible itineraries.
Kayaking expeditions: My preferred way to experience the Rock Islands. Sam’s Tours offers excellent guided kayak tours that access channels and lagoons too shallow for motorboats.
Private boat charters: Expensive ($400-600/day) but worth considering if you have 4+ people. You’ll set your own schedule and avoid the crowds at popular spots. I’ve used Ngellil Nature Island Resort for boat charters with great results.

The famous Jellyfish Lake reopened in 2019 after being closed for several years due to declining jellyfish populations. I’m happy to report that as of January 2025, the jellies are back in impressive numbers – I encountered thousands during my recent swim there. The experience of floating among these harmless creatures is truly otherworldly.

Insider Tip: Visit Jellyfish Lake early (before 9am) or late (after 3pm) to avoid the crowds. The jellies tend to concentrate in the center of the lake during mid-day sunlight hours, so morning/afternoon visits actually offer better distribution throughout the lake.

Exploring Babeldaob Island

Palau’s largest island remains remarkably undeveloped and offers authentic cultural experiences. Rent a car for these adventures:

Ngardmau Waterfall: Palau’s tallest waterfall requires a moderate 30-minute hike through dense jungle. The natural pool at the base is perfect for cooling off. Arrive before 11am to avoid tour groups.
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths: Often called “Palau’s Stonehenge,” these ancient basalt columns in northern Babeldaob date back to 161 AD and remain mysterious in purpose.
Japanese WWII relics: Scattered throughout the island are tanks, bunkers, and a surprisingly well-preserved Zero fighter plane wreckage near Airai. These are not on typical tourist routes, so ask locals for directions.
Traditional villages: Visit Ngerchemai village where you can observe traditional practices like bul (conservation methods) still in active use. Arrange through your hotel for proper etiquette.

On my third visit to Palau, I spent two full days exploring Babeldaob’s back roads with hand-drawn maps from a local friend. This led to my most authentic experiences, including being invited to a family feast in Ngarchelong village where I tried fruit bat soup – surprisingly tasty despite my initial hesitation!

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

Palau has a rich cultural heritage that deserves exploration:

Belau National Museum: Small but informative museum in Koror showcasing traditional navigation tools, storyboards, and historical artifacts. The botanical garden behind the museum features medicinal plants still used today.
Storyboard carving workshops: These intricate wood carvings tell traditional Palauan legends. Etpison Museum offers occasional workshops where you can create a simple design under guidance from master carvers.
Palau Community College Night Market: Held every Thursday evening in downtown Koror. Local foods, crafts, and occasional cultural performances make this a must-visit.

Local Phrase: “Alii” (ah-lee) is the all-purpose Palauan greeting used throughout the day. It’s always appreciated when visitors make the effort to use local greetings.

Palau Culinary Guide: Where to Eat Like a Local

Palau’s food scene blends Micronesian traditions with Japanese, Filipino, and American influences. Food prices increased notably in 2024-2025 due to higher import costs, but there are still delicious options for every budget.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Don’t leave Palau without sampling these authentic specialties:

Tinola: A clear fish soup with ginger, onion, and leafy greens. The ultimate comfort food that every Palauan grandmother makes slightly differently.
Fruit Bat Soup: Yes, really! This traditional delicacy is typically served whole (wings and all) in a coconut milk broth. Find it at Emaid’s Tackle Box on Wednesdays.
Ukaeb: Tapioca and taro dumplings steamed in banana leaves. The perfect starchy accompaniment to fish dishes.
Palauan Coconut Crab: Strictly regulated for sustainability, but legal restaurants serve this delicacy during permitted seasons. The sweet meat is unlike any other crab.

Seafood is naturally the star in Palau, with reef fish prepared simply to showcase freshness. Look for restaurants displaying the Micronesia Challenge sticker, indicating they follow sustainable fishing practices.

Best Restaurants by Category

Local Favorites (Budget-Friendly)

Yano’s Cafeteria: My go-to breakfast spot in downtown Koror. Their taro pancakes with coconut syrup are legendary. Meals $6-10.
Bem Ermii: This unassuming spot near the hospital serves the most authentic home-style Palauan food. No English menu – just point at what looks good in the steam trays. Meals $7-12.
Penguin Cafe: Great Filipino-Palauan fusion food. Their chicken adobo rivals versions I’ve had in Manila. Meals $8-15.

Mid-Range Excellence

Kramer’s Cafe: Perfect for when you need a break from fish. Great burgers, pizzas, and surprisingly good vegetarian options. Meals $12-22.
Drop Off Bar & Grill: Popular with dive masters and boat captains (always a good sign). Excellent tuna poke and cold beer. Their Thursday seafood night is outstanding value. Meals $15-25.
Emaid’s Tackle Box: Traditional Palauan dishes with modern presentation. Try their coconut crab when in season. Meals $15-30.

Special Occasion Splurges

Meduu Ribtal at Palau Pacific Resort: Fine dining with Japanese-Palauan fusion cuisine. Their 7-course tasting menu showcases local ingredients in sophisticated preparations. Reservations essential. Meals $40-70.
Elilai Restaurant: Perched on a hillside with spectacular sunset views over the Rock Islands. Contemporary Palauan cuisine with French techniques. Their reef-to-table philosophy means the menu changes daily based on sustainable catch. Meals $35-60.

Money-Saving Hack #5: Most resorts offer meal plans that seem convenient but are rarely good value. Instead, I’ve saved up to $40 daily by eating breakfast at local cafes (Yuans or Bem Ermii), packing lunch from the SureGama Market for boat trips, and having dinner at mid-range restaurants. The exception is PPR’s breakfast buffet – worth every penny of the $29 price tag.

Grocery Shopping & Self-Catering Tips

If your accommodation has kitchen facilities, consider these shopping options:

SureGama Supermarket: The largest grocery store with the best selection of imported goods. Prices are high for packaged foods but reasonable for basics.
WCTC Shopping Center: Good for household items and snacks at slightly better prices than SureGama.
Koror Public Market: Open Tuesday-Sunday mornings. Local farmers sell fresh produce, and fishermen bring their daily catch. This is where I buy mangoes, bananas, and fresh fish at half the supermarket prices.

One of my costly mistakes on my first visit was stocking up on expensive imported snacks instead of embracing local fruits and seafood. A bag of imported chips might cost $7, while a bunch of apple bananas or starfruit is just $2-3.

Practical Information: Money, Communication & Etiquette

Currency and Payment Methods

Palau uses the US dollar as its official currency, which simplifies things for American travelers. As of 2025:

Most hotels, dive shops, and larger restaurants accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard primarily), typically with a 3-5% service fee
American Express is accepted only at major resorts and high-end establishments
Local eateries, taxis, and small shops often require cash
ATMs are available in Koror at Bank of Guam and Bank of Hawaii (daily withdrawal limits of $300-500)

Pro Tip: Bring more cash than you think you’ll need. ATMs occasionally run out of money, especially around government payday (1st and 15th of each month). I typically bring $500 in cash and use cards for larger expenses.

Connectivity and Communication

Staying connected in Palau has improved dramatically since my first visit:

Mobile Service: PNCC (Palau National Communications Corporation) is the main provider. SIM cards cost $10 and can be purchased at the airport or their office in downtown Koror.
Data Packages: As of January 2025, a 7-day tourist SIM with 7GB data costs $35. Coverage is good in Koror and along main roads in Babeldaob, spotty elsewhere.
WiFi: Most accommodations offer free WiFi, though speed and reliability vary dramatically. Luxury resorts generally have decent connectivity; budget places may have very limited bandwidth.
Internet Cafes: If you need better connectivity, High Tide Internet Cafe near the WCTC shopping center offers reliable service for $5/hour.

The biggest communication surprise for first-time visitors: internet is significantly slower and less reliable than you’re likely accustomed to. I’ve learned to download essential documents, maps, and entertainment before arrival, and use my Palau trips as a partial digital detox.

Cultural Etiquette and Customs

Palauans are generally warm and forgiving toward tourists, but showing respect for local customs enhances your experience:

Dress Code: Despite being a tropical destination, Palau is relatively conservative. In towns and villages, shoulders and knees should be covered. Save swimwear for beaches and boats only.
Photography: Always ask before photographing local people, especially in villages outside tourist areas. Some traditional sites may prohibit photography entirely.
Environmental Respect: Palau takes conservation seriously. The country pioneered the Palau Pledge, which all visitors must sign upon arrival, promising to act in an environmentally responsible manner.
Village Visits: If visiting traditional villages, it’s customary to bring a small gift (fruit, baked goods) when visiting local homes. Remove shoes before entering someone’s house.

Local Phrase: “Ng diak sebechem” (ng-dee-ak seh-beh-chem) means “I’m sorry” or “excuse me” in Palauan. I’ve found this phrase particularly useful when navigating crowded places or if I accidentally commit a cultural faux pas.

Health and Safety Considerations

Palau is generally very safe, but be aware of these health and safety aspects:

Medical Facilities: Belau National Hospital in Koror provides basic care, but serious conditions require evacuation to Guam or the Philippines. Comprehensive travel insurance including evacuation coverage is essential.
Drinking Water: Tap water in Koror is generally safe but may taste heavily chlorinated. Most visitors opt for bottled water, though I bring a water filter bottle to reduce plastic waste.
Sun Protection: The equatorial sun is intense year-round. Even on cloudy days, high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing are necessary. Reef-safe sunscreen is not just recommended but required by law.
Maritime Safety: Always follow guide instructions during water activities. Currents around the Rock Islands can change rapidly, and boat traffic in popular areas requires awareness.

One health mistake I made on my second trip was underestimating the dehydration risk while diving. I now drink at least 3 liters of water daily while in Palau, especially on diving days, and pack oral rehydration salts as a precaution.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Palau Action Plan

After eight visits spanning nearly a decade, I’ve distilled my Palau experience into this actionable plan to help you create your own perfect adventure in this Micronesian paradise.

Your 5-Step Palau Planning Framework

Optimize your timing: Book for shoulder season (May or November) if possible, avoiding Asian holidays and Golden Week. This single decision can save you 30% on your overall trip cost while still ensuring excellent conditions.
Book smart: Secure flights 4-5 months in advance with fare alerts. Contact dive operators directly via email rather than through their websites, mentioning you’re comparing options (this often triggers unadvertised discounts). Consider a split-accommodation strategy: budget-friendly for active days, splurge for the final nights.
Balance your activities: Don’t over-schedule diving days. I recommend a 5-day dive package with rest days interspersed for land exploration and recovery. This prevents nitrogen saturation and allows you to experience Palau’s cultural side.
Pack strategically: Beyond the usual tropical essentials, bring reef-safe sunscreen (required by law), a reusable water bottle with filter, a quality rashguard (sun protection is critical), underwater camera if possible (these experiences deserve documentation), and a dry bag for boat trips and island exploration.
Engage respectfully: Learn basic Palauan greetings, respect environmental regulations without exception, support locally-owned businesses when possible, and take time to converse with locals beyond transactional interactions. The connections you make will transform your experience from tourist to welcomed visitor.

Palau changed me in ways I never expected when I first visited in 2017. Beyond the world-class diving and breathtaking landscapes, it was the Palauan perspective on environmental stewardship and the delicate balance between development and preservation that left the deepest impression. Their national motto – “Rainbow’s End” – perfectly captures the sense of discovering someplace magical that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

Every time I fly back to Palau, watching those emerald islands emerge from the vast blue Pacific, I’m reminded of how fortunate I am to have found my own rainbow’s end. I hope this guide helps you discover yours, too.

Sustainability Suggestion: Consider adding a voluntary carbon offset for your flights to Palau. The country is on the frontlines of climate change with rising sea levels threatening coastal areas. I use MyClimate to calculate and offset my travel footprint, typically adding just $30-40 to my total trip cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Palau expensive compared to other destinations in Oceania?

Yes, Palau is generally more expensive than Southeast Asian destinations and even some other Pacific islands. This is primarily due to its remote location (almost everything must be imported) and the high-end focus of its tourism industry. However, it’s typically less expensive than French Polynesia or the Maldives. Budget travelers should expect minimum daily costs of $150-200 including accommodation, meals, and activities, while mid-range travelers will spend $250-350 daily.

Do I need a visa to visit Palau?

Most nationalities, including US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan, receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay and proof of onward travel. As of 2025, Chinese citizens still require a pre-approved visa, while Taiwanese visitors get 90 days on arrival. Always check the Republic of Palau Immigration Division website for the most current information before booking.

What’s the best way to get to Jellyfish Lake in 2025?

Jellyfish Lake is only accessible via organized tours as part of the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon excursions. All visitors must purchase a $100 permit (valid for 10 days) from the Koror State office, which your tour operator can arrange. The most common route is via speedboat from Koror (about 45 minutes), followed by a short but steep hike over the ridge to reach the lake. Private tours that arrive earlier (around 8am) offer a significantly better experience than the standard group tours that arrive together mid-morning.

Is Palau suitable for non-divers?

Absolutely! While diving is Palau’s main attraction, snorkelers can experience much of the marine life, particularly in the Rock Islands where coral formations rise near the surface. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, and cultural experiences provide plenty of options for non-divers. That said, non-divers should consider trying a Discover Scuba experience here – Palau’s calm, clear waters make it an ideal place for a first diving experience.

When is the best time to see manta rays in Palau?

Manta rays can be seen year-round at German Channel, but your chances increase significantly during the new moon phases when tidal flows are strongest. Based on my logbook data from multiple trips, December through March offers the highest probability of manta encounters, with January being particularly reliable. Morning dives (around 8-9am) at German Channel typically yield better results than afternoon dives.

How many days do I need in Palau?

I recommend a minimum of 7 full days (9 nights including travel days) to experience Palau properly. This allows for 4-5 days of diving or other water activities, 1 day exploring Babeldaob, and 1 cultural/relaxation day. Serious divers should consider 10-14 days to fully appreciate the variety of dive sites and account for weather-related cancellations. Anything less than 5 full days and you’ll spend too much of your precious vacation time in transit relative to enjoyment.

Is it safe to rent a car and drive in Palau?

Yes, driving in Palau is relatively straightforward. They drive on the right side, roads in Koror are generally well-maintained, and traffic is light. Speed limits are strictly enforced (25-35mph in most areas). The main challenges are limited signage on Babeldaob and occasional heavy rain that can make some secondary roads muddy. I recommend renting an SUV if you plan to explore beyond the paved roads, especially during the rainy season (June-October).

What’s the deal with the “Green Fee” I’ve heard about?

The $100 “Green Fee” is actually Palau’s departure tax and environmental protection fee combined. It’s mandatory for all visitors and must be paid in cash at the airport when departing. This fee is separate from the $100 Rock Islands/Jellyfish Lake permit. The funds go directly toward conservation efforts, marine surveillance, and environmental education programs. Consider it your contribution to preserving the pristine environment you’ve enjoyed during your visit.

References and Additional Resources

Palau Visitors Authority – Official tourism website with updated entry requirements and COVID protocols.
Palau Conservation Society – Information on conservation efforts and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Micronesia Challenge – Regional conservation initiative that Palau participates in.
Republic of Palau Government – Official government website with entry requirements and visa information.
Sam’s Tours Dive Sites Guide – Detailed information on Palau’s major dive sites.
Coral Reef Research Foundation – Scientific research organization based in Palau with excellent resources on marine ecosystems.
Palau Pledge – Information about Palau’s innovative conservation initiative that all visitors sign upon arrival.
Undersea Hunter – Excellent resource for underwater photography opportunities in Palau.
Belau National Museum – Resources on Palauan culture, history, and traditional practices.
Palau Weather Service – Reliable forecasts specific to Palau’s microclimates.
Dive Photo Guide: Palau – Specialized information for underwater photographers.
Lonely Planet: Palau – Reliable general travel information, regularly updated.