Located in the Micronesian archipelago of the Pacific Ocean, Palau consists of a large barrier reef and countless small islands and reefs. This small island with a population of just over 20,000 has in recent years become a popular holiday paradise and a top choice for honeymooners. Its stunning marine ecology is internationally renowned, attracting divers from around the world. Just a four-hour flight from Taiwan and being a visa-free destination, why not start planning your Palau vacation right now and head to a tropical island getaway?
Come on, come on—here’s a Palau travel cheat sheet for you. All the essential info on transportation, climate, visas, and more is here to help you quickly get to know Palau, so your next trip won’t be a worry!
Basic Information
Location
Palau is located in the Pacific Ocean, about 2,200 kilometers southeast of Taiwan, not far east of the Philippines. A direct flight takes roughly four hours, so it’s actually not very far from Taiwan.
Time Difference
Palau is in the UTC+9 time zone, which is one hour ahead of Taiwan, the same as Japan and South Korea!
Language
The official languages of Palau are English and Palauan, so as long as you know some basic English, you’ll be fine~
Climate
Palau has a tropical maritime climate near the equator, where temperatures can reach the mid-30s at noon, but it also rains frequently, sometimes dropping to the mid-20s. Be sure to prepare for sun protection as well as bring light jackets and rain gear.
? Dry Season: November to March, affected by the northeast monsoon, with larger waves
? Dry Season: March to June, less affected by weather, stable climate, and it's the off-season with cheaper prices!
? Rainy Season: June to October, affected by the southwest monsoon, with larger waves
Electricity
Palau uses the same 110V two-pin plugs as Taiwan, so no need to bring a special adapter.
Internet
Wifi Wireless Internet
Most restaurants and accommodations in Palau offer free wifi, though the connection is generally weak. It’s usable for messaging or checking in, but if you need to look up information or post online, you might be waiting forever. If you love checking in on social media or need to use maps, it’s recommended to get a mobile data SIM card!
Mobile Data SIM Card
Palau only has one state-owned telecom company that offers mobile internet SIM cards, available at the airport, certain hotels, and the PNCC telecom office in the city.
About Money
Visa
Palau is currently a visa-free country, so no visa is required!!
Permit
Although a visa isn’t required, if you plan to engage in activities in the sea areas under the jurisdiction of Koror State, you’ll need to purchase a marine departure permit. Be sure to carry it with you during your trip to avoid penalties.
? Marine Departure Permit: Rock Island Permit $50 / valid for 10 days
? Marine Departure Permit: Jellyfish Permit $100 / valid for 10 days
? Fishing License: $20 for 10 days of use
Departure Tax
When departing from Palau, a departure tax of $100 (approximately NTD 3,000) must be paid. This fee is usually included in the taxes when purchasing your flight ticket, so no additional payment is required.
Currency
Palau uses the US dollar. Since there are few places to exchange money locally and the card payment system is not very developed, it is recommended that you exchange a certain amount of cash before traveling, just in case.
Transportation
Airport
Palau’s only international airport, Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), is located in Airai State and is about a 15-minute drive from the main city, Koror.
Flights
Currently, the only direct flights from Taiwan to Palau are operated by China Airlines, with only one flight per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. In addition, there are direct flights from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, the Philippines, and Guam, but the frequency is also limited. Therefore, travelers planning to visit Palau should check the flight schedules in advance, confirm their travel duration, and then start planning their itinerary.
Inland Transportation
Palau does not have a public bus system, and taxis are mostly concentrated in the urban area. If you need to travel to and from the airport or visit specific attractions for sightseeing or snorkeling, it is best to contact your local hotel or travel agency in advance to arrange pick-up and drop-off services.
? Travel Agency Transfer: approx. $10 per person
? Taxi: starting fare $10, approximately $20 per one-way trip
? Car Rental: approx. $30–$70, available in both left-hand and right-hand drive. It is recommended to book in advance and request the car to be parked near the airport. Reservations can also be made through your hotel.
＊Car Rental Website Information
? Budget Car Rental: +(33) 488-6233／Budget Official Website
?? Toyota Rent a Car: +(33) 587-5599 (counter at the airport)
Location
Most of Palau’s main attractions are located in Koror State in the central part of the country. It is recommended to choose a hotel in this area. You won’t have to wake up too early to go out to sea, can return to your hotel earlier for rest, and it’s only a 10+ minute drive from the airport. Although prices are slightly higher compared to other areas, the convenient location makes some hotels very popular during peak seasons.
★ Recommended Attraction: Rock Islands
Join a Tour or Go Independent?
In short, for travelers who don’t mind the hassle, have basic English skills, and want to explore some off-the-beaten-path spots, independent travel is recommended for more flexible itineraries. If you just want to relax and enjoy a vacation, joining a tour is advised, as the travel agency will handle everything for you, allowing you to enjoy the trip with ease.
After reading this Palau travel guide, do you feel much more familiar with this mysterious Pacific nation? With proper preparation, you’re already halfway to a successful trip. Believe in yourself—you’re ready to set off on an adventure right away.
Text by AN HSU | Tripresso Travel Cafe Editorial Team