Republic of Palau is a small island nation in Micronesia in Pacific Ocean spread over an area of 460 square kilometres. The newly independent country (it gained independence from UN trusteeship in 1994) is located about 800 km east of the Philippines and 3,200 km south from Tokyo. Palau was earlier known as ‘Pelew’. Capital of Palau is Meleleok. Angaur, Babeldaob, Koror, and Peleliu are the most populous islands of Palau.

Diving at Palau:

Palau is a top divig destination, thanks to its crystal blue water, abundant marine life, coral reefs, photography friendly spots and great underwater thrill. Japanese have played a major role in popularizing Palau as a great diving site. They targeted Palau for it is the nearest warm water suitable for diving near Japan.

Palau Weather:

Palau experiences a uniform temperature (both in and off water) throughout the year. Average temperature hovers between 21 to 27 degrees Celsius while the water surface temperature keeps between 21 to 32 degrees throughout the year. July through October witnesses maximum rainfall (150 inches). Humidity is high. Palau experiences rare typhoons.

Best time to dive Palau:

November and April are the best months for undertaking diving expedition in Palau. June to September is the most unfavorable time.

Visibility average:

50 to 60 meters (reduced during the monsoons)

Diving in Palau:

Palau offers great as well as incredible diving opportunities for divers of all levels. Blue holes, caverns, spectacular coral reefs and variety of marine species (1,200 types of identified fish) make it a perfect experience for the divers at Palau. There are also World War II wrecks and caves underwater, added attractions that make Palau all the more attractive to the scuba divers.

Diving sites at Palau:

• Fish n Fins (the oldest diving site having two live-aboard vessels and seven smaller boats)
• Maml Divers
• Palau Diving Center (belonging to Carp Island Resort) in South of Rock Islands
• Sam’s Dive Tours (offer snorkeling, kayaking, fishing and also land tours)
• Splash (associated with Palau Pacific Resort)
• Expedition Fleet (largest privately owned live-aboard fleet in the Philippines whose ships operate all over the Philippine Island and Palau)
• Blue Corner which is less than an hour’s boat drive from most resorts of Palau. Blue Corner is known for its sharks and unpredictable current.
• German Channel, Ulong Channel and Blue Holes
• Chandelier cave, a big cave system located under one of the islands close to Korror harbour.
• Palau Jellyfish lake for snorkelling

By air:

Airai Airport located in Koror serves Palau. Most people arrive on Continental Micronesia flights from Guam which has good connection with places from around the world.

By water:

Possible but difficult

Getting around:

In taxis and rented cars.

Accommodation:

• Guest Lodge Motel
• West Plaza by the Sea
• West Plaza Desekel
• Palau Pacific Resort
• Palau Royal Resort
• Penthouse Hotel
• Palau Plantation Resort
• Cliffside Hotel Palau