Money and payments
Tipping
Tipping culture in Palau is similar to the United States.
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Oceania · MicronesiaOutline guideCountry in the Western Pacific
Photo: via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
Palau (Belau) is a group of more than 300 tropical islands in the Micronesia area of the Pacific Ocean, to the southeast of the Philippines.
Answers to what travellers most often look up about Palau.
Tipping
Tipping culture in Palau is similar to the United States.
English, Palauan
English and Palauan are the official languages, although some islands also give official status to their own languages.
You can use free Wi-Fi, which is common around Koror, or you can get a SIM card from one of the 2 carriers (PNCC, Globus).
According to the CDC, tap water in Palau is generally safe to drink.
According to the CDC, tap water in Palau is generally safe to drink. Drinking from private wells is not recommended.
Palauans have been known throughout history for their hospitality. Many Palauans are very understanding, realize cultural differences, and easily give respect for foreign visitors.
Attractions, food, stays and travel essentials, with ratings, reviews, opening hours and directions.
2km from the new capital of Ngerulmud. This is on the island of Babeldaob and is a pleasant drive from Koror along the new road constructed by Daewoo. Head out over the bridge and the road to Melekeok is clearly signposted.
the largest city and former capital. Koror contains Palau's only real concentration of shops, restaurants, and hotels. Many of the largest dive operators are also based here.
Places in Palau on the World Heritage List.
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon
Listed 2012
List from Wikidata (CC0). Photos from Wikimedia Commons.
The largest island, with a population of roughly 6,000 people, also Babelthuap, Babelthwap, Babeldoub, Babeldaub, etc.
Home of the largest city of the same name.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of almost 300 mostly uninhabited islands, home to Jellyfish Lake, a lake with millions of jellyfish with very weak stingers where snorkelers can safely swim.
About 700 people live here, mostly in the village of Kloulklubed.
Remote southern outpost with about 200 inhabitants, site of a major World War II naval battle and a modern-day surfing destination of some repute.
Consists of Sonsorol and Hatohobei states; these islands are home to about 100 people, way to the southwest of the rest of Palau.
Public transport and paid services in Palau.
By boat
Any other diving will be from a boat, after an hour or more ride which will cost around US$150 for a two-tank dive. There are no dive spots or beaches on Koror, the main island.
By car
If you rent a car, be prepared to drive slowly on some bumpy roads. Palau features both left- and right-hand drive cars, which can cause some confusion; traffic drives on the right.
Apps for booking a taxi or a ride in Palau.
Finding apps for Palau…
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Babelthuap Island · International · ROR
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Calculated from climate averages: mild daytime highs and lower rainfall. It does not account for festivals, crowds or prices.
Average conditions in Ngerulmud
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. high | 29° | 28° | 29° | 29° | 29° | 29° | 28° | 28° | 28° | 29° | 29° | 29° |
| Avg. low | 27° | 27° | 27° | 28° | 28° | 28° | 27° | 27° | 27° | 28° | 28° | 28° |
| Rainfall (mm) | 216 | 197 | 183 | 177 | 279 | 331 | 375 | 303 | 284 | 236 | 239 | 246 |
| Humidity | 81% | 81% | 80% | 80% | 82% | 82% | 82% | 83% | 82% | 82% | 82% | 82% |
Choose your passport and destination to see whether you need a visa.
Budget
$90
Per person, per day
Mid-range
$250
Per person, per day
Luxury
$645
Per person, per day
| Budget | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $45 | $135 | $370 |
| Food and drink | $25 | $60 | $135 |
| Local transport | $10 | $25 | $60 |
| Activities | $10 | $30 | $80 |
Estimate from World Bank price levels (2025). Actual costs vary by city and season. World Bank
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We do not label countries as safe or unsafe. Below is the official advice from two governments, with the date it was last updated. Always read the full advice before you travel.
US Department of State
Level 1 of 4Exercise normal precautions
Exercise normal precautionin Palau. Some areas have increased risk. Palau is generally a safe destination for travelers. U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use the travel guidance here to stay safe.
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
No advice against travel. Read the full advice before you go.
Before you travel No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: see general advice for women travellers read our guide on disability and travel abroad see general advice for LGBT+ travellers read about safety for solo and independent travel see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad Travel insurance If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. About FCDO travel advice The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. Get travel advice updates Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. Follow FCDO: travel advice on X travel advice on Facebook Travel Aware on Instagram
Stories, itineraries and practical advice for travelling in Palau.
Nature & adventureScuba diving is an activity in which you swim underwater for extended periods using self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, hence the acronym scuba.
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