palau
Palau is Micronesia's most famous country (although it is not formally part of Micronesia). The country is located in Pacific, about 65 miles north of the equator and consists of about 340 scattered islands. The marine environment is spectacular and draws divers from all over the world. But here is also Micronesia's greatest diversity of terrestrial flora and fauna. The proximity to both New Guinea and Filippi Erna has caused this small archipelago to contain a remarkable variety of endemic birds, plants, reptiles, mammals and amphibians.
Diving in Palau
The diving here is very popular and here you can experience everything from caves and coral gardens to dramatic drop offs. Also, don't miss swimming among thousands of (harmless) jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake. One of the most famous dive sites here is Blue corner where there is often a strong current and with very good opportunities to see schools of barracudas, tuna and many pelagic species. Sharks, swordfish and various species of rays are often seen gliding past the reef here. Everywhere you can enjoy the fantastic view and some of the world's best diving sites.
In addition to beautiful and exciting reefs, there are also some wrecks here that are diveable and provide good opportunities for underwater photography and even penetration of the wrecks is possible. The islands here offer several different accommodations, most are located on the island of Koror and accommodations are available in different price ranges and standards. Otherwise, liveaboard here is clearly preferable many times if you want to dive a lot. If you live on land, two dives are usually the maximum you can do per day. On a live board you will be able to do up to four dives per day in some cases.
The weather is tropical and constantly hot and humid (about 30°C all year round). Palau is best known for its 112 km long barrier reef that encloses spectacular coral gardens and the lagoon known as a diver's paradise. Palau is also home to a unique phenomenon, the Rock Islands. The Rock Islands are a cluster of extremely steep karst-weathered limestone islands that stretch from Koror Island south towards Peleliu Island. They are mostly covered in tropical forest and shine in emerald green against the light blue sea that surrounds them.
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Travel information Palau
- Time zone: +9 GMT
- Currency: US dollars, many also accept credit cards.
- Language English.
- Water: Avoid drinking tap water and ice made from tap water. Buy bottled water instead
- Visa: Not required for trips of less than 30 days, but you need to register for ESTA no later than 72 hours before departure, as Guam is considered a US territory.
- Health: Contact your local vaccination clinic for advice. There are no tropical diseases and the healthcare system is well developed with a modern hospital.
- Pressure chamber: There is a pressure chamber located in the hospital. Treatment in chambers is an expensive story so make sure you have insurance that covers this.
- Country code: +680
- Electricity: Standard 110 volts and US electrical outlets.
- Weather: It is 7 degrees north of the equator so consequently the climate is tropical. Average temperature in water and air is around 28 degrees. Dry period between December and April. Rainy season between April and December.
- Current water temperature and average sea temperature per month
- Clothing recommendations: So-called casual clothing is accepted on the boat and resort. Women should wear a slightly longer skirt or shorts when visiting the local villages.
- Airport tax: USD 20 (subject to change without notice)