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After the emotional weight of returning to my roots for solo travel in Nepal, arriving in Palau felt like stepping into a different dimension. If you are after Palau travel guide read on as I share everything you need to know before you go. Note If you don’t swim or dive, you won’t feel left out here because I didn’t dive either and had the best time! However, this blog covers both on land and water activities.

Good news for Australians is, now Qantas is running direct flight from Brisbane to Palau and if you don’t reside here the quick connection is from Taiwan to Palau. Also, don’t worry if you don’t drive because in Palau restaurants literally pick you up and drop you off to your hotel as long as you call and confirm beforehand. I loved this service as this was the first time I experienced it and there was no extra cost to the service!

Back on the road, I have realised there is a specific kind of exhaustion that comes when your passion becomes a “habit.” When I started this decade of solo travel, every border crossing was an adrenaline rush. Now, at 109, I know I’ve been running on travel auto-pilot.

You pack the bag, you fill the visa form, you find the $20 shuttle—you do it all while your mind is still in the last city. People call it “living the dream,” but sometimes it feels like a marathon where the finish line (197) keeps moving.

Palau was the first time I let myself admit I was tired. I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue the quest. But then I signed the “Palau Pledge” in my passport—a promise to act for the future—and I realized that maybe the quest isn’t about the number. It’s about the person I’m becoming between the numbers.

As some of you may know, I am on a quest to travel to all 197 UN – recognised countries in the world. When I finally hit country #108, it happened to coincide with my 10th anniversary of solo traveling. To honor that decade of independence, I returned to Kathmandu—the city where I was born—to treat my birthplace with the same “first-trip” jitters I had ten years ago. It was a deeply personal, soul-challenging homecoming.

But coming off the back of that milestone, I’ll be honest: the road to 197 is long. There are moments where the quest feels less like a choice and more like a habit—a type of “travel auto-pilot” that can leave even the most seasoned wanderer feeling exhausted. I wasn’t sure if I had the energy to keep pushing toward the final goal. I needed a place that didn’t demand effort, but rather offered a sense of peace.

That is where Palau comes in.

Solo female travel to Palau Travel Guide 2026

What is Palau?

Often overshadowed by its larger Pacific neighbors, Palau is an archipelago of over 300 islands in the western Pacific Ocean. It is a place where the ocean isn’t just a backdrop; it is the lifeblood of the nation.

The World’s First Shark Sanctuary: In 2009, Palau led the world by protecting its waters, proving that this tiny nation has a massive heart for conservation.

The Rock Islands: These ancient, mushroom-shaped limestone formations are a UNESCO World Heritage site, draped in foliage and surrounded by every shade of turquoise imaginable.

The Palau Pledge: Upon arrival, your visa isn’t just a stamp; it’s a signed promise to the children of Palau to tread lightly and preserve their home.

Best time to visit Palau?

Palau is all about the Dry Season.

• The Dry Peak (Nov – April): This is the gold standard for Palau. You’ll get the calmest seas and best visibility for seeing the Rock Islands. If you’re here to witness the blue-to-turquoise gradients of the ocean, this is it.
  
• The Shoulder (May – June / Sept – Oct): You might get more rain, but the islands are incredibly lush, and the crowds are thinner—perfect if you’re feeling that travel exhaustion and need more space.
  
• The Wet Season (July – August): It’s humid and rainy, but even on rainy days, the water remains warm. If you’re looking for the “Quiet Season” to just hide away in a resort and write, you’ll find the most peace here.

The visa & health basics

The water rule:

Tap Water: Similar to Kathmandu, never drink the tap water in Palau. While the country is more developed than some neighbors, the piping systems aren’t designed for drinking.

Hydration: Most hotels provide 5-gallon jugs or glass bottles for refills. Stick to these or bottled water. Unlike your 3,000m mountain treks in Nepal, there aren’t many “fresh mountain streams” here to risk—it’s strictly purified water only.

Arriving: From the airport to accommodation

Palau’s airport (ROR) is small, but it doesn’t have the same “taxi culture” as Nepal.

No Taxis at the curb: Unlike Kathmandu, you won’t find a line of taxis waiting. There are no public buses or ride-sharing apps (like Uber/Grab) available at the airport.

The $20 standard: You must pre-book your transfer through your hotel or a tour operator.

Sharing the ride: If you find fellow solo travelers on your flight, you can often “buddy up” on a pre-booked van. Generally, a shuttle into Koror (the main hub) will cost about $20 USD. If you’re lucky like I was and share a ride, you might negotiate down to $10 if your stop is the closest.

Money & costs

Currency: Palau uses the US Dollar ($).

Bring Enough Palau is a cash-heavy society. While you can use cards at major resorts, you’ll need USD for:

Local “Bento” lunches: These are affordable, delicious, and usually cash-only at small stands.

Taxis: As mentioned, these are flat-rate cash transactions.

Departure Tax/Fees: Though most are now included in your ticket, keep $50–$100 in “emergency cash” just in case your specific carrier hasn’t bundled the green fees.

Connectivity

Where to stay in Palau?

Most accommodation is centered in Koror (the hub) or Malakal Island (the docks). If you’re on “auto-pilot” mode, like i was, I recommend staying somewhere that handles the logistics for you.

1. Luxury: The retreats

If you want to fully “check out” and let the quest fade into the background, go for the resorts with private beaches.

• Palau Pacific Resort (PPR): Often cited as the best in the country. It has a private beach (man-made but beautiful), amazing sunsets, and that classic Pacific luxury feel.
• Palau Royal Resort: Located on Malakal, it’s a bit more modern. It’s perfect if you want a balcony overlooking the harbor to watch the boats while you write.

For accommodation, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of centre. Above I researched and named the best ones with this filter (at the time of writing)
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places.

2. Mid-Tier: Central & convenient

Perfect for the solo traveler who wants a clean, air-conditioned “base camp” without the $500/night price tag.

• Palau Central Hotel: Located right in the heart of Koror. It’s modern, has great Wi-Fi, and is walking distance to the best restaurants and the WCTC supermarket.
• Cove Resort Palau: Located at the Malakal marina. It has a massive pool—great for lounging by the water even if you aren’t a swimmer.

3. Budget & Airbnb: Local living

Palau isn’t a “cheap” destination, but you can find hidden gems that feel more like a homecoming.

• DW Motel: A legendary spot for budget travelers. It’s simple, quiet, and has a shared kitchen if you want to save money by cooking your own meals.
• Ngermid Oasis (Airbnb): Look for studio lofts in the Ngermid area or dream house. These often come with kitchenettes and local neighborhood vibes, giving you that “live like a local” feel.

How to get around Palau?

Logistics in Palau are vastly different from the chaotic streets of Nepal. There are no rickshaws here, and as of 2026, the systems are small but specific.

The Airport Shuffle: Remember, there are no taxis waiting at the curb. You must pre-arrange a shuttle with your hotel. It’s usually a $20 flat fee. If you see a fellow solo traveler, ask to split a van—it’s how I got my ride down to $10.

Car Rentals (The “Freedom” Option): If you want to see the Badrulchau Monoliths or the big waterfalls on Babeldaob, you’ll need wheels. Rentals are around $50–$80 USD per day.

Note: The national speed limit is a very chill 40 km/h (25 mph). It’s impossible to rush here—Palau literally forces you to slow down.

If car rentals aren’t your thing, arrange a taxi with driver from your hotel or restaurant.

Taxis: There are no ride-sharing apps like Uber or Grab. You call for a taxi from your hotel or restaurant. Fares within Koror are usually a flat $5–$10. Always confirm the price before the door closes.

The new daytime bus: A recent eco-friendly addition! There is now a limited daytime bus service connecting major points in Koror and Babeldaob but only operates Tuesday and Thursday! It’s a great way to save money and sit back while someone else drives. $1 cost!

Walking: Koror is walkable in the very center, but it’s humid. Stick to walking for short stretches to cafes, and use shuttles for anything else to preserve your energy.

Palau for non-divers: The land-based hit list

Most people think Palau is only for divers, but after 109 countries, I’ve learned that the “soul” of a place is often found on solid ground. If you don’t swim or dive, you won’t feel left out here.

1. The “Easter Island” of the Pacific: Badrulchau Monoliths

Located at the northern tip of Babeldaob, these 52 ancient basalt megaliths are shrouded in mystery. Some have faces carved into them, dating back as far as 161 CE.

• The Vibe: Silent, spiritual, and breezy.
• Pro-Tip: The views of the ocean from this hillside are some of the best in the country—all with your feet firmly on the grass.

2. The storyboards of Koror

Palau’s history isn’t written in books; it’s carved into wood.

• Etpison Museum: A must-visit. It’s private, well-curated, and explains the “First Child” ceremonies and Palauan money (which involves heavy beads and shells).
• The Jail Gift Shop: It sounds unusual, but the local correctional facility has a gift shop where inmates carve world-class storyboards. It’s one of the most authentic places to buy art and support the local community.

3. Scenic Flight: The “Door-Off” experience

If you want to see the famous 70 Islands (the ones you see on all the postcards) without getting wet, take a scenic flight.

• The View: You see the mushroom-shaped islands and the different shades of the reef from above. It’s a 40-minute “wow” moment that requires zero physical effort.

4. Nikko Bay: The kayaker’s sanctuary

Even if you aren’t a swimmer, head to Nikko Bay. Water here is stunning and you can have the glance some of the famous Palau rock islands from shore. It is the best place to see them because the water is incredibly calm—protected by limestone walls that rise up like cathedrals.

• The Experience: Rent a kayak and glide through “old-growth” coral forests. Because the bay is so sheltered, the water is like glass, allowing you to see vibrant corals and schools of fish from your seat.
• Pro-Tip: Look for the hidden WWII bunkers and “caves” along the limestone edges that are only accessible by small boat or kayak.

5. Airai: The ancient heart

A visit to Airai State is like stepping into a living museum. This is home to the Airai Bai, the oldest traditional men’s meeting house in Palau (built around 1890).

• The Architecture: The Bai is constructed with zero nails—just intricate wood joinery and carvings that tell Palauan legends.
• The Vibe: It is a deeply spiritual site. The surrounding stone paths and monoliths make it feel like the epicenter of Palauan history.

6. Kaigun Sho: Ruins of the pacific war

Located on Babeldaob, this was once a massive Japanese Communications Center during WWII. It was built in the shape of a cross and disguised as a field hospital to avoid Allied bombing—though the bullet-scarred facade proves the disguise didn’t always work.

• What to see: You can wander through the bombed-out shell of the building. Outside, you’ll find rusted Japanese tanks and anti-aircraft guns being slowly reclaimed by the jungle.
• Logistics: It is easily visible from the road. Technically, there is a small entrance fee payable at the Airai State Office, but many travelers stop for photos from the perimeter.

7. The Waterfalls: Ngardmau & Tabecheding

Palau has two heavy hitters when it comes to falls.

• Ngardmau waterfall: The tallest waterfall in Micronesia. You can reach it via a jungle hike (about 30-40 mins) which follows an old Japanese colonial railway track. 
• Ngatpang Tabecheding Waterfall ($5 Entrance): This is a true hidden gem. It’s less crowded than Ngardmau and feels much more “wild.”
  • The Hike: It’s a moderate 15-minute trek through the jungle.
  • Pro-Tip: Bring cash for the $5 entrance fee at the trailhead. There are natural pools at the base that are perfect for a quick dip to wash off the humidity.

8. The Beaches: White Sand & Isolation

Palau doesn’t have a “beach on every corner” because of its rocky coastline, but the ones it has are world-class pristine beaches.

• Long Beach: A surreal sandbar that appears only at low tide, stretching between two green islands. It’s pure, blindingly white sand surrounded by turquoise water.
• Kayangel Atoll: If you want the “desert island” experience, take a day trip here. The beaches are powdery, remote, and often completely empty.

9. Ngermalk Trail: The Jungle Stairmaster

If you still have some hiking energy left, this trail in Koror is a raw, jagged trek through the rainforest.

• The Terrain: This isn’t a manicured park path; it’s a 1-2 km round trip over mossy rocks and tree roots. It’s humid and challenging, but it leads to a secluded cove with picnic tables at the end.
• The Wildlife: Keep an eye out for the Palau Fantail (a local bird) and the lizards that scurry across the limestone. It’s a great way to feel “lost” in the nature of Palau without leaving the main island.

10. Mount Ngerchelchuus

Climb through tangled undergrowth and exposed ridges to reach Palau’s highest point, where the landscape unfolds in every direction beneath the clouds

11. Elauesachel Trail

Navigate shaded forest corridors and mossy relics while listening for rare birds that thrive in the quiet, undisturbed heart of Babeldaob.

For accommodation, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of centre. Above I researched and named the best ones with this filter (at the time of writing)
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places.

Palau for divers & water lovers

Even if you aren’t a deep-sea diver, Palau has famous “water” experiences that are accessible to everyone. But before I share that, fyi 

The Permit “Tax” System

In Palau, you don’t just pay for tours; you pay for State Permits. These are physical cards you must keep on you.

• Rock Islands & Jellyfish Lake: This is the big one. It usually costs $100 USD and is valid for 10 days.
• Rock Islands only (no Jellyfish Lake): Around $50 USD.
• Peleliu: If you head south for WWII history, that’s a separate $30 state permit.
• Pro-Tip: Most tour operators sell these at their shops, but bring cash. They often charge a 3-5% fee if you try to put a permit on a credit card.

1. The milky way: The natural spa

This is a shallow lagoon famous for the white limestone mud on its floor.

• The Ritual: You jump into the turquoise water, scoop up the thick white mud, and cover yourself in it. Locals say it has skin-rejuvenating properties.
• For Non-Swimmers: This is very shallow and usually done as a “float.” You don’t need to dive to enjoy the spa day.

2. Jellyfish lake: A surreal migration

This is a world-famous marine lake where millions of golden jellyfish have lived without predators for so long that they’ve lost their sting.

• The Experience: You can snorkel (scuba diving is strictly banned) and be surrounded by a “wall” of pulsating, harmless jellies.
• Current Status (2026): Note that jellyfish populations fluctuate; check with local guides for the current “bloom” levels before you go.

3. Iconic dive sites

If you are diving, these are the “big three” you cannot miss:

• Blue Corner: Known as one of the best dive sites on Earth. It’s famous for “reef hook” diving—you hook yourself to the reef and hover like a kite in the current while sharks, barracudas, and rays swim past you.
• German Channel: A hotspot for Manta Rays. They come here to “cleaning stations” where small fish pick parasites off them. It’s a spectacular, stationary show.
• Chandelier Cave: An underwater cave system with four chambers. You can surface inside the air pockets to see incredible stalactites (the “chandeliers”).

4. Coral reefs: The big drop off

Palau is basically a massive wall of coral. At sites like the Big Drop Off, the reef starts at just a few feet deep and plunges 300 meters straight down. It’s a vertical garden of soft corals and sea fans.

Getting to Palau (ROR)

There is one international airport: Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), located in Airai.

From the United States (USA)

There are no direct flights from the US mainland ( New York or San Francisco) to Palau.

• The Route: Most travelers fly to Honolulu (HNL) or Guam (GUM) first.
• From Hawaii: United Airlines operates flights from Honolulu, usually with a stop in Guam before reaching Koror.
• From NYC/SFO: You will typically fly to a hub like Manila, Taipei, or Seoul first, then connect to Palau.

From Asia & Beyond

• Manila (MNL): This is one of the most popular routes. Philippine Airlines recently launched twice-weekly direct flights from Manila (starting March 2026).
• Taipei (TPE): China Airlines runs regular direct flights.
• Tokyo (NRT): United Airlines offers a direct link from Narita.
• Brisbane (BNE): Qantas operates the “Palau Paradise Express” direct for those coming from the South Pacific.

Places to eat in Palau 

This Palau travel guide wouldn’t be complete without the best places to eat in Palau. so, here we go,

1. Drop off – reocmmend poke bowl
2. Longshoremen’s inn  – decent coffee iced
   
   Restaurants with complementary pick up and drop off service (all pics on my Palau IG highlight)
3. The taj – Indian 
4. Elilai – American
5. Side street cafe – Phillipiness 
6. The $5-$10 “Bento” Lunch – In Palau, the “Bento” is a local institution. Influenced by Japanese history, these are pre-packaged boxes filled with rice, fish or fried chicken, and often local taro or papaya salad.

• Where to get them: You’ll find them at small roadside stands or gas stations early in the morning. They are the perfect budget-friendly meal to take with you on a hike or a boat trip.

7. The Palauan night markets – If you are in Koror on a Friday, head to the 680 Night Market (check local schedules as they often happen bi-weekly).

What to expect: It’s a mix of local families, music, and food stalls. You can try Taro in coconut milk or grilled local fish for a few dollars. It’s the best way to see the community without the “tourist filter.”

I hope by sharing my personal experience, you gathered enough insights to explore your own journey in Palau. As for me, my next destinations are The Federation of Micronesia (FSM) and Marshall Islands. 

Important Info

1. The permit “Tax” system

In Palau, you don’t just pay for tours; you pay for State Permits. These are physical cards you must keep on you.

• Rock Islands & Jellyfish Lake: This is the big one. It usually costs $100 USD and is valid for 10 days.
• Rock Islands only (no Jellyfish Lake): Around $50 USD.
• Peleliu: If you head south for WWII history, that’s a separate $30 state permit.
• Pro-Tip: Most tour operators sell these at their shops, but bring cash. They often charge a 3-5% fee if you try to put a permit on a credit card.

2. The strict sunscreen ban

Palau was the first country in the world to ban “reef-toxic” sunscreens.

• The Law: If you bring sunscreen containing Oxybenzone or Octinoxate, it can be confiscated at the airport, and you could face a fine.
• What to buy: Look for “Mineral-based” sunscreens (Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide).
• Pro-Tip: Since you don’t swim, you’re better off wearing a UV-rated long-sleeve rash guard or linen shirt. It’s cooler than grease and 100% legal.

3. Essential packing: The “Dry Bag”

Even if you aren’t diving, you may be on boats to see the Rock Islands or the Milky Way.

• The Humidity/Splash Factor: The Pacific is saltier and splashier than you’d expect. A 10L or 20L dry bag is mandatory to keep your phone, camera, and “auto-pilot” journals safe.
• Footwear: For the Ngermalk trails, flip-flops won’t cut it. The volcanic soil and red clay become incredibly slick when wet. Bring trail runners or sturdy sandals with a “bite” (like Tevas/Chacos).

4. Cultural etiquette (Omengull)

Palauans have a word, Omengull, which means respect for everyone and the environment.

• The “Palau Pledge”: You’ll sign this at immigration. It’s a promise to the local children.
• Dress Code: In Koror, island-casual is fine. However, if you visit a Bai (Meeting House) in a village, dress modestly (shoulders covered, thighs covered.
• Photography: Always ask before photographing locals, especially elders near a Bai.

5. Connectivity & electricity

• Power Plugs: Palau uses Type A and B (the same as the USA and Thailand). 
• Internet: It’s slow but it’s perfect for the “exhausted” traveler because it forces you to disconnect. Don’t plan on streaming; plan on writing offline and uploading when you’re back in a hub.

6. Health & safety

• WWII Ordnance: Especially on Peleliu or near Kaigun Sho, stay on the marked trails. There is still unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the deep jungle.
• Bugs: The jungle trails (especially near the waterfalls) have aggressive mosquitoes. Bring a DEET-free repellent to stay “Pledge” compliant.

I am on the mission to travel all the 197 countries in the world (not in a race, more like in a slow and steady fashion) and recently completed 108 countries. It was a big milestone because I work hard, save for these trips and share what I know here on the blog for free so fellow travellers like you can benefit from it. You’re welcome to return the favour by ordering my new book on Amazon- A solo female traveler’s story: from Kathmandu to finding peace in 100+ countries Enjoy reading!

Let me know in the comments:

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