Explore Palau

With a coastline of 1519km, Palau (Belau) is one of the world’s smallest sovereign states situated in the Pacific Ocean. The Republic of Palau is represented by over 200 islands with its most famous being Angaur, Babeldaob, Koror and Peleliu. This tropical island nation is also known as the Black islands situated southeast of the Philippines.

Sighted by Spanish and Portuguese navigators in the 16th century and occupied by the Japanese during World War I and II, Palau was administered by the US as part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands at the conclusion of the war, eventually gaining independence on October 1st 1994.

In 2006, government offices were moved from the former capital of Koror to Ngerulmud 20km northeast of Koror on Babeldaob Island.

With only eight of the islands permanently inhabited, its economy consists of mainly tourism, agriculture and fishing. Palau has a mixed population of Malay, Melanesian, Filipino and Polynesian ancestry with archaeological evidence indicating that the islands were inhabited as early as 1000BC.

Regions

Babeldaob:
The largest of the islands and home to its capital city.

Koror:
Was the capital until 2006.

Peleliu:
Mostly inhabited with tiny villages scattered here and there.

Angaur:
Famous for surfing sites.

Rock Islands:
Famous for adventure snorkelling in Jellyfish Lake

Sonsorol Islands:
Least inhabited of the islands.

Highlights

Dolphin Pacific:
Providing unique human-dolphin encounters.

Etpison Museum:
For some history dose.

Diving:
One of the main attractions on the island.

Jungle River Boat Cruise:
Cruise along the river to an ancient Palauan village for a cultural experience.

Kayaking:
Paddle through many of its deserted lagoons, preserved reefs and coves.

Neco Marine:
A 5-Star PADI award-winning National Geographic dive training facility.

Ngarachamayong Cultural Centre:
Centrally located in Koror.

Peleliu Memorial Museum:
Learn about the Battle of Peleliu.

Rock Islands:
Protected by a fringe reef, the placid waters are a haven for snorkelling and fishing.

Shopping:
Get authentic handicrafts at the Basibik Arts & Crafts.

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