Palau

Facts and Figures

• Location: Palau is part of the western Caroline Islands lying at the far western end of Micronesia in the Philippine Sea. The cluster is about 800 miles (1,280 km) southwest of Guam and 600 miles (960 km) east of the Philippines.
• Size: The archipelago stretches over 400 miles (644 km) and includes more than 200 islands. Babeldaob is the largest.
• Population: About 21,000.
• Time Zone: GMT + 9
• Language: English and Palauan
• Government: A republic since 1947 and gained self-governing status in 1994.
• Electrical Current: 115/230V, 60Hz, with outlets that use U.S.-style plugs.
• Climate and Dress: Climate is tropical, with a hot and humid rainy season from May to November. The average annual air temperature is 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) and surface temperature is 82 F (28 C). Typhoons are rare. Women should keep their thighs covered in public when venturing outside a resort. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are essentials.
• Getting There: Major airlines connect to Palau via Guam.
• Getting Around: Most of the hotels and resorts in Palau provide shuttle service from the airport. Taxis are readily available and there are several car rental companies at the airport.
• Entry Documents: U.S. citizens require proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate). Non-U.S. citizens must have a valid passport. All visitors must have return travel arrangements or approval by the chief of immigration for an extended stay. There is a free 30-day visa issued upon arrival.
• Currency: U.S. dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted.
• Hyperbaric Facilities: There is a hyperbaric chamber located in Colonia Hospital.
• For More Information:
  Palau Visitors Authority
  www.visit-palau.com.

Read more about diving in Palau

A Living Eden: Rocking the Republic of Palau

Dive Service Providers