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Transportation to and from Palau

Transportation to and from Palau

Air Travel

Major Airport and Airlines

  • Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR)

    Palau's sole international airport, located on Babeldaob, north of Koror.

  • United Airlines

    Flights from Guam (GUM), connecting to Honolulu, Narita (Tokyo), and other destinations.

  • China Airlines

    Flights from Taipei (TPE), a main route for travelers from Asia and those connecting via Asian cities.

  • Korean Air

    Seasonal flights from Seoul (ICN), serving South Korean travelers and connections.

Flight Information and Airport Services

  • Direct Flight Options

    No direct flights from major global hubs like North America, Europe, or Australia. Layovers occur in Guam, Taipei, Seoul, or Manila.

  • Seasonal Availability

    Flight frequency and prices are higher during high season (December-April). Lower prices during low season (August-October).

  • Airport Facilities

    ROR is a small airport with limited facilities: a small duty-free shop, a cafe, and car rental desks. No airline lounges.

  • Transfers from Airport

    Hotel shuttles (most common), taxis ($20-$30 to Koror), and car rentals are available.

Land Transportation

Palau, an island nation, mainly features land travel within Koror and Babeldaob. Border crossings, trains, and long-distance public buses are not present.

Self-Driving

Requirements
  • Valid home country driver's license often enough.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) helpful but not strictly required for many.
Considerations
  • Driving on the right-hand side.
  • Roads outside Koror can be unpaved or rough.
  • Limited signage in rural areas. GPS or offline maps are advisable.
  • Fuel available in Koror and some Babeldaob spots.

Road Conditions

Good Roads
  • Koror roads are paved and generally maintained.
  • Main ring road on Babeldaob is paved.
Caution Areas
  • Roads outside main areas can be poorly lit at night.
  • Narrow roads and potholes exist.
  • Watch for pedestrians and animals.

Travel Notes

Applicable Options
  • Self-driving for flexibility.
  • Guided tour vans for longer distances on Babeldaob.
Not Applicable
  • No land borders.
  • No train system.
  • No comprehensive long-distance public bus system.

Affiliate Resource for Car Rental

Book your rental car:

Booking.com Cars

Consider a smartphone for navigation:

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Sea/River Arrivals

International sea arrivals mainly occur via cruise ships or private yachts at Koror's port. River transportation does not apply to tourism in Palau.

Arrival Methods

  • Cruise Ships: Koror serves as a port of call for small expedition cruise ships and luxury yachts. Passengers disembark at Malakal Port in Koror.
  • Ferry Services: No regular public ferry services exist for international passenger arrivals. Inter-island transport uses private boat charters or tour boats.
  • River Transportation: Not applicable for tourism purposes.

Port Procedures and Connections

  • Immigration Procedures: For cruise or yacht arrivals, procedures are at Malakal Port. Passports are checked, and visitors sign the Palau Pledge.
  • Land Connections: Taxis are available at Malakal Port for transport to hotels or attractions. Cruise lines often arrange transfers.

Affiliate Resources for Accommodation

Consider vacation rentals:

Important Note on Cruise Departures

Cruise Ship Departure:

Departure procedures for cruise passengers are typically handled by the cruise line, with information provided onboard.

Private Yacht Departure:

Yacht owners should coordinate departure procedures with local port authorities and customs officials.

No Public Ferries:

There are no public ferries for international travel from Palau.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure from Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) with these details for a smooth exit.

Fees and Timing

Environmental Fee PPEF

The Palau Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee (PPEF), also known as the "Green Fee" ($100 USD), typically comes included in your international airline ticket price.

  • Check your ticket details.
  • If not included, payment occurs at the airport upon departure.
Departure Timing

Arrive at Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight.

  • The airport is small.
  • Processes can be slower, especially during peak season.
  • Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Departure Procedures and Facilities

Procedures

Standard airport security screening applies. Present your passport and boarding pass to immigration officials.

  • Prepare to remove electronics and liquids for security.
  • Proceed to the departure gate after immigration.
Airport Facilities

ROR offers limited facilities for departing travelers.

  • Small duty-free shop.
  • Cafe for snacks and beverages.
  • Consider eating before arriving or bringing your own snacks due to limited choices.

Visual Travel Notes

  • Roman Tmetuchl International Airport

    Image: The exterior of Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Palau, showing the terminal building. View Image

  • Rental Car on Paved Road

    Image: A rental car parked on a paved road in Palau, with lush tropical vegetation in the background. View Image

  • Cruise Ship at Malakal Port

    Image: A cruise ship docked at Malakal Port in Koror, Palau, with smaller boats in the foreground. View Image

Additional Travel Considerations

  • Navigation in Rural Areas

    Signage can be limited outside Koror.

  • Fuel Availability

    Gas stations are mainly in Koror with a few scattered on Babeldaob. Plan fuel stops when exploring the larger island.

  • Peak Season Bookings

    Booking flights several months in advance is advisable, specifically for peak times, to secure better rates and availability.

Traveler Insights

Layover Planning

All international flights require a layover. Allow sufficient time in connecting cities like Guam, Taipei, Seoul, or Manila.

  • Consider layover city attractions.
  • Check transit visa requirements for layovers if applicable.
  • Factor in potential delays.
On-site Transfers

Many hotels and resorts offer pre-arranged airport transfer services, often included in package deals or available for a fee. This is a common and easy option.

  • Confirm transfer details when booking.
  • Taxis are available outside the terminal.
  • Agree on taxi fare before starting the journey.

Essential Pre-Travel Checks

Visa Requirements

Confirm if you need a visa for Palau based on your nationality. Most visitors receive a visa on arrival for up to 30 days.

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date from Palau.

Travel Insurance

Consider comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and diving activities.