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Iconic Landmarks

Iconic Landmarks

Must-Visit Sites with Historical and Cultural Context

It holds unique ecosystems and marine lakes, including Jellyfish Lake. Its cultural importance lies in its traditional use by Palauans for fishing, gathering, and spiritual practices over millennia.

Access occurs via licensed tour operators. Tours typically run daily, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. Permits are obtained from the Koror State Government office or through your tour operator. These sites are almost always visited as part of a guided boat tour.

Locations

  • Jellyfish Lake (Ongeim'l Tketau): A marine lake famous for its millions of golden jellyfish that have largely lost their stinging ability due to isolation.
  • Milky Way: A lagoon known for its milky white limestone mud at the bottom, believed to have skin-rejuvenating properties.
  • Peleliu World War II Battlefields: A profoundly historically important site from WWII with battle remnants. A local guide is strongly suggested.
  • Ngardmau Falls: The largest waterfall in Palau, located on Babeldaob island.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Explore Palau's history and artistry through its museums.

Major Museums

Located in Koror, this museum houses a collection of Palauan artifacts, traditional tools, artwork, and historical photographs. It includes exhibits on Palauan traditional architecture, specifically the impressive bai (men's meeting houses).

Collection Highlights

  • Belau National Museum
  • Etpison Museum
  • Peleliu Peace Memorial Park Museum

Art & Cultural Spaces

Formal art galleries are limited. Some hotels or local shops display and sell local artwork and crafts, especially storyboards and woven goods.

Cultural Insights

  • Local craft shops for storyboards
  • Resort cultural shows
  • Occasional museum workshops

Insider Tips

For Visitors

  • Bring an Underwater camera for marine life.
  • Visit Jellyfish Lake midday for best light.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for Peleliu walks.

Optimal Viewing

  • Consider scenic flights for aerial views of Rock Islands.
  • Early morning tours mean fewer people.
  • A local guide for Peleliu will greatly enrich the experience.
  • Shoulder season visits often provide a calmer experience.

Essential Information

  • Rock Islands Permit:$50 (10 days)
  • Jellyfish Lake Endorsement:Approx. $100
  • Peleliu Permit:Approx. $10-$20
  • Ngardmau Falls Fee:Small entrance fee
  • Guided Tours Available:Rock Islands, Peleliu, Babeldaob
  • Independent Exploration:Babeldaob (rental car)
  • Recommended:Experienced local guides
  • Currency:US Dollar (USD)

Important Note

Always check current permit fees and tour availability directly with operators or the Koror State Government before your visit.

Historical Sites

Palau’s history comes alive through its preserved sites.

Ancient Remains

Large basalt stone pillars dating back over 2,000 years. Their origin and purpose remain debated, but they are believed to have been part of an ancient bai or religious site.

War History

Numerous sites offer a somber yet educational experience related to the brutal battle of 1944.

Military Relics

Tanks, anti-aircraft guns, bunkers, and remnants of military equipment are scattered across Peleliu and parts of Babeldaob.

Heritage Sites & Architecture

While modernized, some areas of Koror retain remnants of the Japanese administration era. Reconstructed traditional men's meeting houses (bai) showcase impressive Palauan traditional architecture and intricate carvings.

Explore

  • Ngarchelong Stone Monoliths (Badrulchau)
  • Peleliu WWII Battlefields
  • Koror colonial architecture

Additional Insights

Beyond Ngardmau Falls, explore other smaller waterfalls or remote villages with a local guide. This provides a connection to Palauan rural life.

Discover More

  • Other Babeldaob waterfalls
  • Remote villages with local guides
  • Lesser-known sunken Japanese shipwrecks

Preservation Note

Always be respectful of historical sites.
Do not remove any relics or natural items.
Consider supporting local conservation groups.
Photography: Always ask permission when photographing individuals.
Leave no trace of your visit.

Sustainable Practices

  • Support locally-owned businesses.
  • Participate in community-based tourism.
  • Minimize your environmental footprint.
  • Adhere to the Palau Pledge.
  • Learn a few Palauan phrases.

Natural Attractions

Palau’s natural beauty is its crowning glory.

Unique Features

  • Rock Islands: Limestone formations carved by millennia of erosion. Their unique mushroom shapes are a hallmark of Palau.
  • The Arch: A natural rock arch formation in the Rock Islands, popular for photography and boat passage.
  • Chandelier Cave: A unique underwater cave with stalactites and stalagmites, accessible by diving.

  • Beaches: Numerous pristine beaches on uninhabited Rock Islands, with white sand and clear waters.
  • Lakes: Jellyfish Lake and Milky Way offer unique aquatic experiences.
  • Scenic Drives: Babeldaob ring road offers lush interior and coastal views.

Wildlife Viewing Areas

Palau is renowned for its marine biodiversity, making its reefs the main wildlife viewing area.

Marine Life

  • Marine Diversity: Sharks, manta rays, turtles, barracudas.
  • Birdlife: Diverse birdlife on Babeldaob.
  • Fruit Bats: Common sight at dusk.

Parks & Gardens

Green spaces and educational facilities offer a glimpse into Palau's natural world.

Explore

  • Long Island Park: Popular local spot for recreation in Koror.
  • Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) Aquarium.
  • Dengesikan Cultural Center & Scenic Overlook on Babeldaob.

Hidden Gems & Best Views

Seek out these less-visited spots for unique experiences and photo opportunities.

Outer Islands

Angaur or Kayangel offer traditional life and untouched nature.

Babeldaob Interior

Explore smaller waterfalls or remote villages with local guides.

Aerial & Sunset

Small plane tours for unparalleled aerial views; enjoy sunsets over Rock Islands from Koror.

Palau Pledge

Every visitor signs the Palau Pledge upon arrival, a commitment to protect the environment and culture. Look for the unique stamp in your passport.