Palau Travel Tips

Palau enjoys a warm, tropical climate throughout the year, with average temperatures around 27°C. Rain is possible in every season, and humidity is generally high. Rainfall tends to be heavier between July and October, although sunshine can still feature during these months.

The best time to visit depends on the experiences you're planning. Diving, snorkelling and island-hopping are available throughout the year, but visibility, currents, rainfall and sea conditions vary. If you're planning a particular activity, speak with your tour operator about seasonal conditions before booking.

Our tip: Allow some flexibility in your itinerary for weather-dependent excursions, and book popular diving trips and accommodation ahead of time.

Palauan and English are the country's official languages, and English is widely spoken in visitor-facing businesses. You'll also encounter other languages reflecting Palau's international connections.

Learning a few local words or asking about the meaning behind a place name is a lovely way to start a conversation. A warm greeting and genuine interest in local culture go a long way.

Palau operates on Palau Time, UTC+9, throughout the year.

For Australian travellers, Palau is generally one hour behind Western Australia's time zone, one hour behind the Northern Territory and Queensland during standard time, and three hours behind Sydney during Australian Eastern Daylight Time. Time differences can vary by state and season, so check the local time before travelling or arranging transfers.

The official currency in Palau is the United States dollar (USD). Major credit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants and visitor facilities, although acceptance varies between businesses.

It's sensible to carry some cash for smaller purchases, markets and places that may not accept cards. Keep in mind that your bank may charge international transaction or ATM fees.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for a holiday in Palau. Choose a policy that covers your planned activities, including scuba diving, snorkelling excursions and other adventure activities where applicable.

Medical facilities are limited compared with major Australian cities, and serious illness or injury may require evacuation overseas. Check that your policy includes appropriate emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation cover, and understand any activity-specific exclusions before departure.

Palau generally uses 120-volt electricity and Type A and Type B power outlets, the same general plug types used in the United States.

Australian travellers will usually need a suitable travel adaptor, and some appliances may also require a voltage converter. Check the voltage range printed on your chargers and devices before packing.

Palau is reached by international flights, with connections depending on your departure city and travel dates. Routes can include connections through Brisbane, as the Queensland capital has direct services operated by Qantas. These usually operate once a week with the addition of a second flight on the Palau Paradise Express route from December 2026 to March 2027. Services and schedules may vary without notice, so check current services and connection times when planning your trip.

Consider the total journey time, overnight stops and baggage arrangements when comparing flight options. If your holiday includes pre-booked diving excursions or boat trips, allow sufficient time between your arrival and the first activity.

Australian passport holders travelling to Palau should check the latest entry requirements before departure. As a general guide, Aussie travellers will be granted a 30-day visitors visa on arrival if they have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity upon the date of departure from Palau, plus an appropriate onward or return ticket. Visitors must also complete the Palau Entry Form within the permitted pre-arrival window.

Visitors are also now required to sign the Palau Pledge, a commitment to protecting Palau's environment and culture, which is stamped into your passport. Visitor visa arrangements and other conditions should be confirmed for your nationality and circumstances. This is subject to change but is currently USD$100.

Complete the official entry form through the Palau Entry Form website. There is no charge for submitting this form, so be cautious of unofficial websites requesting payment.

Important: Entry requirements can change. Always check the Australian Government's Smartraveller advice for Palau and official Palau immigration information before travelling.