Koror
Snorkellers, divers and travellers willing to pay for remote Pacific nature
Koror at a glance
Koror is Palau's small commercial centre and the launch point for everything that makes the country worth the flight. From here, boats reach the Rock Islands, the snorkelling at German Channel and the quiet lakes of Peleliu, while the town itself keeps restaurants, dive shops and groceries within walking distance.
The week ahead
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Where to base yourself
- Malakal HarbourDive operators, waterfront hotels and the fastest access to the Rock Islands. Choose it if your days revolve around boat departures.
- Central KororGroceries, banks, cafes and the Belau National Museum in walking range. Useful for self-catering and arranging permits.
- Ngardmau and Babeldaob northQuieter lodges near waterfalls and the single road looping the main island. Good for travellers hiring a car.
A sample 3-day rhythm
- Day 1Arrive, sort permits and permits fees, and walk the waterfront. An afternoon at the jellyfish lake or museum is enough for the first day.
- Day 2Full-day boat trip to the Rock Islands with snorkelling stops, lunch on board and an early return before the swell builds.
- Day 3Dive or snorkel at German Channel and Blue Corner, then spend the evening reviewing photos and organising the next day's boat.
Want more? Use the planner to stretch this into a full trip.
Tips before you go
- Pay the marine park fee on arrival and keep the receipt; patrols check boats.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard to protect coral and skin.
- Book boats a day ahead in low season and several days ahead from December.
- Cash is useful outside the bigger hotels; a few ATMs in Koror sometimes run dry.
Common questions
- Is Palau expensive?
- Yes. Flights, boat charters and park fees dominate the budget, and imported food adds up. Plan for premium costs throughout.
- Do we need a guide?
- For reef trips yes, as licensed boats are required for the Rock Islands. Walking central Koror needs no guide.
Ready to plan Koror?
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