Overview
Located between Guam, the Philippines and Papua New Guinea, the Republic of Palau is a 400-mile archipelago with a stunning underwater world of coral, fish and other marine life. Due to these natural features, Palau has some of the most spectacular snorkeling and diving areas in the world as well as a well-functioning infrastructure for diving of all kinds, even with overnight stays on board on longer trips. Palau’s coral reefs are home to more than 1,500 species of fish and 700 species of coral and sea anemones. Steep drop-offs, coral reefs and WWII wrecks are among the underwater attractions. Abundant marine life includes triggerfish, snappers, butterfly fish and barracuda, as well as groupers, napoleon fish and various species of reef sharks. Manta rays, eagle rays, squid, hawksbill and green turtles are also common sights. See other countries in Oceania on computerannals.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
Lufthansa (LH) flies from Frankfurt/M. in cooperation with China Airlines (CI) via Hong Kong and Taipei (Taiwan) to Koror. Another route from Frankfurt/M. is offered via Hong Kong and Manila by Lufthansa (LH), Philippine Airlines (PR) and United (UA). Feeder flights to Frankfurt/M. from Vienna and Zurich are possible with Lufthansa (LH) or the national airlines Austrian Airlines (OS) and Swiss (LX) from Vienna or Zurich. United Airlines (UA) flies to Palau from Guam and Yap.
Flight times
Frankfurt/M. – Koror: 20 hrs 30 mins – 47 hrs 30 mins (depending on route and length of stopovers).
Departure fee
None.
Arrival by car
Buses and minibuses can be hired for excursions. Rental cars are available at the airport. For trips to Babeldaob, a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. The maximum speed is 40 km/h (25 mph). Taxi: There are many comfortable non-metered and non-metered taxis in Koror. The fare should be agreed in advance.
Arrival by ship
International cruise ships rarely call at Palau. Those who sail to Palau privately can find the archipelago on various nautical charts. US Naval Chart HO 5500 maps the entire area of Micronesia.
Ferry provider
There are ferry connections from Babeldaob (Koror) to Kayangel, Peleliu and Angaur.
