Friends, ready for a Pacific adventure that feels remote yet easy to plan? Palau’s emerald Rock Islands, clear lagoons, and jungle waterfalls are perfect for a do-it-yourself itinerary.
Use this guide for exact costs, straightforward logistics, and the can’t-miss stops—no pricey packages required.
Why Palau
Tucked in Micronesia, Palau blends calm lagoons with limestone islets and short boat hops between photo-ready spots. English is widely spoken and the currency is the US Dollar, so payments and directions are simple for first-timers.
Where To Stay
Base in Koror for tour docks, shops, and cafes; it’s about 20–30 minutes from the airport. The centrally located Palau Hotel often lists rooms around $130–$150 per night, while Airai Water Paradise Hotel & Spa near the airport commonly shows from roughly $100+, with shuttles available on select rates.
Getting In
Flights land at Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Airai. There are typically no curbside taxis, so arrange a hotel transfer or rental car before arrival; the drive to Koror takes 20–30 minutes. Also complete the Palau Entry Form within 72 hours before arrival and expect to sign the Palau Pledge at immigration.
Visas & Entry
U.S. citizens visit visa-free. Many nationalities receive visa on arrival (often 30 days, extendable). Check your country’s specifics and carry a return ticket. Good to know: a $100 Palau Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee (PPEF) is already included in international airfares.
Permits & Fees
To access the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, buy a Koror State permit. Current guidance: Rock Islands permit $50 (5 days), or Jellyfish Lake + Rock Islands permit $100 (5 days). Some tour sites quote $120 for the Jellyfish Lake version—clarify inclusions when booking.
Jellyfish Lake
Snorkel in a marine lake famed for stingless golden jellyfish—an experience found only here. Populations fluctuate; recent reporting noted numbers lower than historic peaks, so confirm conditions with your operator. Bring a rash guard and stay near the surface (deep layers can be hazardous).
Rock Islands
Full-day boat trips typically run 5–8 hours with lunch, snorkel gear, and hotel pickup. Expect about $140–$220 for the tour itself, plus the state permit above; totals usually land around $240–$320 per person. Departures are from Koror piers, returning by late afternoon.
Milky Way
Many tours stop at Milky Way, a lagoon with pale limestone clay used as a gentle natural mask. It’s included on popular Rock Islands routes; no extra ticket is required beyond the permit and your chosen tour.
Ngardmau Falls
On Babeldaob Island, Ngardmau Waterfall pairs a short jungle trek with a cool swim. DIY drivers can reach the trailhead in about an hour from Airai; guided treks (about 3–4 hours) commonly run around $98, with a $10 entrance fee often included. Wear grippy footwear for damp steps.
Getting Around
Car rental gives maximum flexibility for Babeldaob sights; recent rates show from roughly $45–$75 per day depending on season and provider. In Koror, a growing public bus network now offers an unlimited pass around $20, a handy option for short hops if you’re not renting. Taxis are available in town but limited at the airport.
Connectivity
Buy a PalauCel (PNCC) prepaid SIM on arrival or in Koror. A SIM typically costs about $10.60 with initial airtime. Coverage runs from Kayangel to Angaur and is fine for maps and messaging.
Daily Costs
Plan $10–$20 for a simple breakfast and snacks, and $12–$25 for casual lunches or dinners, depending on what you order. Bottled water on tours is usually included, and many operators provide coolers. Remember: the permit and PPEF are the two key fixed costs that travelers sometimes overlook.
Essential Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen only; Palau bans reef-toxic ingredients at entry. Bring a dry bag, reef-friendly rash guard, and water shoes for rocky entries. For tours, pack light: mask defog, towel, and a spare T-shirt. Always reconfirm which permit your booking covers.
Wrap Up
Friends, Palau rewards thoughtful planning: secure the right permit, pre-book airport transfers, and choose one or two marquee days on the water with a relaxed day inland. Which Palau moment tops your list—the mirror-calm Rock Islands, the otherworldly Jellyfish Lake, or a cool dip at Ngardmau Falls? Share your pick and the budget tip you’ll use first!
