Palau Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Palau? Main activities and attractions

Palau’s cultural and historical sites immerse visitors in the archipelago’s rich heritage. In the capital Ngerulmud and former colonial center Koror, you’ll find museums such as the Belau National Museum with pre-colonial artifacts and contemporary exhibits. Visit the Bai Melekeok, a traditional men’s meeting house showcasing Palauan architecture. WWII relics remain scattered across Babeldaob, with Japanese gun placements, bunkers, and aircraft remnants. Etpison Museum and local tribal villages offer deeper insights into customs and oral traditions. The island of Peleliu was the stage for one of the Pacific’s fiercest WWII battles, and today holds a moving war memorial and remains of the battlegrounds. History enthusiasts will appreciate the contrast between plazas echoing stories of colonial legacy and sacred sites like stone monoliths near Airai believed to carry spiritual significance.

Nature lovers will be captivated by Palau’s natural wonders and aquatic life. Dive enthusiasts can explore world-renowned spots like Blue Corner and German Channel, offering encounters with manta rays, sharks, and vibrant corals. The Jellyfish Lake on Eil Malk Island is a rare experience where snorkelers swim with non-stinging jellyfish. Kayaking around the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, unveils hidden coves and limestone formations. Local cuisine often centers on seafood, taro, and fruit bat soup, with influences from Japanese and Filipino traditions. Engaging in a village feast or joining a traditional dance performance adds flavors to the experience. Sustainable ventures like eco-fishing trips and nature treks also offer authentic immersion into Palau’s way of life.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Palau

Beyond the postcard-perfect lagoons and classic dive sites, Palau holds many unexpected treasures for curious travelers. Exploring these lesser-known experiences reveals a different face of the islands, one steeped in myth, geology, and cultural depth. One such gem is Ngardmau Waterfall on Babeldaob island, a 30-meter cascade nestled deep in the jungle, accessible by hiking through dense vegetation and crossing scenic mangrove paths. Nearby, thermal springs bubble quietly, used for centuries in traditional healing. In the village of Airai, step inside one of Palau’s oldest Bai (men’s houses). Unlike the more well-known Melekeok, this location sees fewer tourists and local elders may be available to explain its spiritual role in community governance and rituals. For adventure seekers, venture to the island of Kayangel, Palau’s northernmost atoll. Home to only a few dozen residents, it offers untouched beaches, expansive reefs, and true isolation. Curious about geology? Visit the Milky Way lagoon, where you’ll find limestone-rich clay beneath the water’s surface. Locals believe it rejuvenates the skin, and visitors are encouraged to lather it on during a dip. Discovering these lesser-known corners offers a richer, more personal connection to Palau. It’s not just about landscapes—it’s about stories, silence, and intimacy with a land that speaks softly to those who listen.

When to visit Palau? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Palau

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, UK, and US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days as long as they have a valid passport and proof of onward travel. A return ticket and accommodation details are often requested at immigration. A Palau Pledge declaration is also required upon entry.

🚗 Driving rules

Palau drives on the right-hand side. An international driving license is recommended, although some car rentals accept national licenses alongside passports. Roads are generally in fair condition, especially on Koror and Babeldaob.

🔌 Electricity

Electrical outlets are typically US-style Type A and B, delivering 120V at 60Hz. Travelers from Europe and the UK will need a voltage converter and a plug adapter.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Palau has limited but growing mobile coverage provided by PNCC and PalauCel. SIM cards are available in Koror, and eSIMs are not commonly supported yet. Internet is relatively expensive and slower than in developed countries.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Palau is generally very safe with low crime rates. However, travelers should avoid isolated jungle areas after dark and be cautious when swimming near reefs due to strong currents. Emergency service number is 911.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

It is illegal to remove coral or marine species, including shells. Drugs are strictly prohibited, and there is a total ban on plastic bags and some sunscreens harmful to coral reefs. Fines are enforced for violations.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Always ask before taking photos of people or private property. Modest clothing is encouraged when visiting villages and traditional sites. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Christianity is the dominant religion, but animistic traditions persist. When entering churches or sacred grounds, dress respectfully and refrain from loud behavior. Some village ceremonies may be closed to outsiders.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Palau, Palau National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025