Jurisdiction Guide

November to April offers the driest weather and calm seas, so diving and marine life spotting are best during these months. Typhoons and rain are more likely from June to October.

US dollars are used everywhere, but cash is much more common than cards. Most ATMs are on Koror. Tipping is not required but rounding up or leaving a small extra amount at restaurants is polite. Public transport is nearly nonexistent; rent a car, arrange transfers or use taxis. Grab a local SIM card at the airport or in Koror for the best reception.

Greet people with a smile or a simple 'Alii.' Dress modestly outside resorts, especially in villages and government buildings. Remove shoes before entering homes. Don't touch anyone's head. Ask before taking photos of people or private events.

Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can happen, so keep valuables secure. Watch for strong currents and sharp coral when swimming or diving. Mosquito-borne illnesses exist, so use repellent. Roads are narrow and can be slick after rain, so drive slowly.

Visit the traditional village of Bai ra Ngesechel a Cherechar for Palauan architecture. Go kayaking through the untouched Nikko Bay mangroves. Swim in the less-visited Milky Way lagoon where the white clay is used for skin treatments.

Many visitors, including Americans, Japanese, Australians, and EU citizens, get visa-free entry for up to 30 days, often extendable for a small fee. Those not listed need to arrange visas beforehand. Long-term stay options are limited and there's no digital nomad or remote work visa yet.

Most people get around by rental car or taxis, buses are rare and only run in limited areas. Domestic flights to outer islands are infrequent and must be arranged in advance. No trains or ride-hailing apps, but some resorts organize shuttles. Roads connect main population centers but can be rough.

Try local specialties like tinola (ginger chicken soup), taro root dishes, and fresh fish. Fruit bat soup is a delicacy for the adventurous. Imported food is common in restaurants, but Palauan flavors appear in smaller eateries. Drinking tap water is usually safe in Koror but bottled water is popular. Vegetarians can find salads and some plant-based dishes, although options are limited outside larger hotels.

Palau can be pricey, especially for accommodation and imported food. Budget travelers can find local guesthouses and eat at small diners from $12 per meal, while full-service restaurants and resorts charge much more. Basic hotel rooms start around $60 per night, while high-end resorts easily reach $250 or more. Koror is the most expensive spot; prices drop on outlying islands.