Welcome to Palau

Hidden away in the deep blue waters of the Pacific, Palau is a heavenly paradise. Vacationers, divers and romantics all fall in love here – with the breathtaking natural wonders both on land and at sea and with the friendly people who fortunately call Palau their home.

Hike or bike through the jungle, then cool off under a secret waterfall. Birdwatch for some of the 168 recorded species of birds on the island. Snorkel, kayak and sportfish. And don’t miss the mysterious monoliths of Babeldaob – the culturally significant Badrulchau.

Unique Facts

• Starting in 2017, Palau asks visitors to sign an “eco-pledge” upon arrival, promising to be a good environmental steward during their stay. Then, in 2020, they banned reef-toxic sunscreens. Both of these initiatives were a world-first.
• Land-locked Jellyfish Lake in Palau – it’s home to five million non-stinging transparent jellyfish.
• Palau is one of the world’s best scuba diving destinations, known for its beautiful seascapes, interesting shipwrecks and diverse marine life.
• Palau’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Rock Islands – a collection of uninhabited limestone islands jutting out of impossibly blue lagoons.
• Compared to Easter Island, Palau is home to the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths. These 38 stone monoliths date to around 161 AD.

Language

Palau’s official languages are Palauan and English.

When To Go

Palau is a fantastic year-round destination. If you’re coming for diving, aim for the months between November and April for the clearest visibility. June and September have the roughest sea conditions.

Airports

Roman Tmetuchl International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for most travelers when visiting Palau: Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need a Hepatitis B vaccine.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 120V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: United States Dollar

Getting Around

Be aware that road conditions may differ significantly than those in the United States.

The only mode of public transportation is metered taxis. Consider hiring a car and driver for the duration of your stay.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy in Koror, Palau
In Airai State, in an area known as Omsangel (no street address)
P.O. Box 6028, Koror, Palau 96940
Telephone: +680-587-2920/2990
Emergency after-hours telephone: +680-775-6150
Fax: +680-587-2911
usembassykoror@palaunet.com

Local Visitor Info

Palau Visitor Authority
PO Box 256, Koror, PW 96940
Tel: (680) 488-1930/2793
pva@pristineparadisepalau.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 911

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Palau. Use standard safety precautions and do not leave belongings unattended.