Palau

Micronesia

Palau is a country in Micronesia, home to 17,700 people, with an area of 459 km². Its capital is Ngerulmud.

Capital: Ngerulmud
Population: 17,700
Area: 459 km²
Region: Micronesia
Density: 38.6 / km²
Status: Sovereign state

Palau · Micronesia · map loads on click

Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.

What Palau is known for

Palau is best known for Rock Islands, Jellyfish Lake and Ngardmau Waterfall.

Palau is a small island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is made up of more than 340 islands and islets, with the largest island being Babeldaob. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush forests.

Palau at a glance

Language: Palauan and English are the official languages, with Japanese also spoken
Currency: US dollar (USD)
Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion in Palau, with a significant minority of the population practicing traditional beliefs
National dish: Palauan cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional Micronesian cuisine and includes dishes such as taro soup, coconut crabs, and grilled fish
Climate: Palau has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year
Main industries: Tourism, fishing, agriculture, and handicrafts
GDP: $317 million (nominal, 2020 estimate)
Development: Palau is considered a developing country with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 129 out of 189 countries (2020)

Things to do in Palau

Some of the main tourist attractions in Palau include:

Rock Islands a group of limestone islands located in the southern lagoon of Palau, known for their unique shapes, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life.
Jellyfish Lake a saltwater lake on Eil Malk Island known for its population of harmless jellyfish that have lost their ability to sting.
Ngardmau Waterfall a beautiful waterfall located in the interior of Babeldaob Island, surrounded by lush jungle and rock formations.
Belau National Museum a museum in Koror that showcases Palau's rich cultural heritage and history.
Peleliu Island a historic World War II battlefield, now a popular dive site with stunning coral formations and abundant marine life.
Kayangel Atoll a remote atoll located in the northernmost part of Palau, known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs.
Ngarchelong State Archaeological Site an important archaeological site that contains the remains of ancient Palauan villages and ceremonial structures.
Ulong Island a popular diving and snorkeling site known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Ngatpang Island a small island off the coast of Babeldaob Island known for its scenic beaches and hiking trails.
Airai Bai a traditional meeting house located in the village of Airai, featuring intricate wood carvings and artwork.

These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Palau has to offer. The country is also known for its unique culture, with traditional dances, ceremonies, and artwork.