How to Get There

Palau International Airport (ROD) is located on Babeldaob Island, just a bridge away from Koror. There are no fixed direct flights from many countries. Common transit options include flying via Seoul (Incheon) with Korean Air or T'way Air; via Guam with United Airlines; via Manila with Philippine Airlines; or via Taipei with China Airlines. Flights operate several times a week, and tickets can be hard to come by during peak season, so it’s recommended to book 2–3 months in advance.

Airport Transfers

The drive from the airport to downtown Koror takes about 20–30 minutes. Hotel transfers are the most hassle-free option (most resorts charge around US$15–25 per person). Taxis are also available at approximately US$15–25 for a one-way trip, but you’ll need to negotiate the fare. Many flights arrive late at night or early in the morning, so it’s best to book your transfer in advance rather than wait for a taxi upon arrival.

Getting Around the Islands

• Renting a Car: The roads on Koror Island are simple with light traffic. Daily rental rates are around US$40–60. Most car rental companies will rent to you if you have a valid driver’s license from your country along with a translation, making this the most flexible way to get around.
• Taxis: Taxis do not have meters. Always agree on the fare before getting in, with short trips typically costing between US$3–10.
• Inter-Island Travel and Diving: All travel to the outer islands relies on speedboats operated by local companies. Trips to various spots in the Rock Islands take around 30–60 minutes. Ferry schedules depend on tides and weather, so be sure to confirm your pickup time the night before.
• Traveling to Peleliu: A few small planes operate weekly flights, or you can take a chartered boat, which takes several hours. It’s best to arrange this through a travel agency.

Tickets and Apps

• Palau has no public transportation system or local ride-hailing apps. You’ll mainly rely on hotel front desks to call taxis for you.
• Google Maps is generally sufficient for getting around, but for navigation in the Rock Islands waters, just follow your boat captain.
• Prepaid SIM cards from BNRS or PT & W are available at the airport. Hotel Wi-Fi is often slow, so download important documents before you leave.
• Cash is king: Most taxis and small shops do not accept cards, so always carry small bills under US$20.