🇵🇼 Travel eSIM plans for Palau

Palau is best enjoyed on and under the water. The Rock Islands and the Southern Lagoon offer high-quality diving and snorkelling, with visibility often exceeding 30 metres. For a different perspective, hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the maze of limestone islets and hidden lagoons. On land, take a guided tour of the WWII relics on Peleliu or walk the Ngardmau waterfall trail through primary rainforest. Respect local customs: dress modestly in villages, ask permission before photographing people, and never touch or stand on coral. Most businesses accept US dollars, and credit cards work in Koror but less so on outer islands. Pack a reusable water bottle; tap water is safe in Koror but not on all islands. A mandatory departure fee applies to all visitors aged three and older.

• Jellyfish Lake (Ongeim’l Tketau): Snorkel among millions of stingless golden jellyfish in a protected marine lake. A short hike over a limestone ridge leads to the water. The experience is surreal and completely safe.
• Rock Islands: The well-known mushroom-shaped islands are best viewed by boat tour. Many operators include stops at natural archways, secluded beaches, and the Milky Way, a bioluminescent bay.
• Peleliu WWII Battlefield: A sobering but important site. Hire a guide to explore bunkers, caves, and the airstrip. Carry insect repellent and plenty of water; the heat and humidity are intense.

• Fruit bat soup: A Palauan specialty, often served in a clear broth with ginger and vegetables. The meat is dark, tender, and mildly gamey. It is available in Koror’s local restaurants, but call ahead to order.
• Taro chips and tempura: Crispy, savoury snacks made from purple taro or breadfruit. They are sold by street vendors and in markets; perfect for a light bite between excursions.
• Fresh sashimi: Palau’s tuna, yellowfin, and mahi-mahi are excellent raw. Many restaurants in Koror serve it simply with soy and wasabi. For the freshest selection, visit the Koror fish market early in the morning.

Palau has a tropical rainforest climate with two main seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, offering calmer seas and clearer skies-ideal for diving and snorkelling. The wet season from May to October brings higher humidity and afternoon showers, but water visibility often remains good. Typhoons are rare but possible between June and December. The water temperature stays between 27°C and 30°C year-round, so a 3mm wetsuit is sufficient for most divers. For the best balance of weather and fewer crowds, visit between December and March. Avoid the heavy rain months of July and August if you want reliable sunshine for boat trips. Peak tourist season coincides with northern winter holidays; book accommodation and flights well in advance.

Pack light, breathable clothing made from cotton or quick-dry fabrics. A long-sleeved rash guard is essential for sun protection while snorkelling or kayaking. Bring reef-safe sunscreen; standard sunscreens are banned in Palau and can be confiscated at the airport. A reusable water bottle and a dry bag for boat trips are practical. For evenings, a light jacket or pashmina helps against air-conditioned restaurants. Sturdy sandals with a heel strap are fine for most activities, but add a pair of lightweight hiking shoes if you plan to visit Peleliu or Ngardmau. A universal power adapter (US-style outlets) and a power bank are useful, as island electricity can be intermittent. Leave drones and fishing gear at home unless you have a permit.