Palau Tours and Travel for 2025 and 2026

YPT Tours to Palau

Discover the wonders of our Palau tours, a gem of the western Pacific Ocean. This tropical paradise boasts over 500 islands, including the famous Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising 445 uninhabited limestone islands formed from volcanic activity.

Adventure seekers can indulge in world-class reef and WWII wreck diving, sea kayaking, island hiking, deep-sea fishing, scenic flights and snorkeling at Palau’s Jellyfish Lake. Known in Palauan as Ongeim’l Tketau, this saltwater lake on Mecherchar (Eil Malk) Island is renowned globally for its abundance of bright orange, stingless jellyfish.

On land, you can learn about Palau’s local culture by taking a land tour of its main island Babeldaob visiting villages like Airai, known for its well-preserved bai (men’s meeting house), as well as Ngerulmud, the country’s new capital and the least populous capital in the world. In downtown Koror, you can sample local cuisine, including fruit bat soup, fresh sashimi, Ukaeb (stuffed crab with coconut milk), and Palau’s national soup, Demok, which is made from taro leaves.

Palau national identity is shaped both by ancient traditions and its modern history. The islands were part of the Spanish Empire in the 16th century before being sold to Germany in the late 19th century. After WWI, the islands were governed by Japan, leaving a significant mark on the island’s culture. The island of Peleliu was the location of one of the fiercest battles in the Pacific Theater during WWII. Today, it is home to numerous relics, sites, and monuments that commemorate the historic events of that battle. After a brief period of American administration post-World War II, Palau gained independence in 1994 and is now a presidential republic in free association with the United States.

Join us on an unforgettable journey as we explore Palau’s remarkable natural wonders, from Jellyfish Lake to its captivating WWII history. Our expertly guided tours cater to all types of travelers, whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach or outdoor excursions. With opportunities to witness the majestic rock islands, swim with manta rays in the Palau National Marine Sanctuary, and hike through the lush rainforests of Babeldaob, YPT can fill your trip to Palau with lasting memories. Join us for one of our group or private tours, or let us assist you in crafting your ideal bespoke tour to Palau.

Group Tours to Palau

Palau is the first destination on YPT’s signature Least Visited Countries Tour, which takes place every July/August and again in December/January. During the Palau segment of the tour, we spend approximately 3 nights and 4 days exploring all the major sites. This is without a doubt the least expensive and most efficient way to experience the highlights of Palau.

Least Visited Counties Tour – 11 July 2025 – 8 August 2025 $2995 – $12895

Least Visited Countries Summer Combo

Independent Tours to Palau

Since 2018, Young Pioneer Tours has built a strong network of local partners, hotels, guides, and unique experiences for Palau Tours. As a result, we can offer tailored independent travel packages to suit your preferences in this beautiful destination.

Example Palau Tour Itinerary (3 days)

Day 1 – Palau – Koror

Palau is served by five international flights each week, including United Airlines flights from Guam, China Airlines flights from Taipei, and Nauru Airlines flights from Brisbane and Pohnpei. YPT can help you select the flight which best suits your travel plans and schedule. (flight to Palau not included in group or private tours)
Transfer to your centrally located hotel in downtown Koror.
Overnight in Koror.

Day 2 – Koror – Babeldaob

Morning

Breakfast in hotel.
A relatively late rise after late flights coming the previous night and meet your local guide at 10am in the lobby of your hotel.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, head out with your local guide for a Koror city tour and then over the Japan- Palau Friendship bridge to Babeldaob island, Palau’s largest island and the seat of its government. After visiting parliament, you’ll stop by the excellently preserved Melekeok Bai (traditional men’s meeting house) which features ornate traditional designs and paintings.
Stop by a market and café for snacks and local food for lunch on the road.
Finally, make your way to Babeldaob’s northernmost tip for the day’s highlight: the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, considered to be the most enigmatic and oldest archaeological site in Palau.
After exploring Babeldaob, head back to Koror where YPT can make restaurant recommendations ranging from international cuisine to local foods like seafood, fruit bat, young taro leaf soup and stuffed crab.
Overnight at your hotel.

Day 3 – Koror – Peleliu Island

Morning

8am departure for a boat trip about the famous rock islands of Palau, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning beauty. We will pass by the natural cave nicknamed the “Gas Station”, where Japanese patrol boats used to refuel, and also see Coral Arch island, which, according to local legend, was created by a giant snake!
After cruising for a bit, we will dock at Peleliu, the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War 2 Pacific Theatre. Designated by the US government as a “National Historic Landmark,” our expert local guide will bring us through various battle sites, tanks and plane wreckage, shrines and monuments, including a hike into Death Valley on Bloody Nose Ridge, as well as the tunnel systems where 33 Japanese soldiers held out until 1947!
Bento lunch on the beach (extra cost).

Afternoon

Note: For those wishing to snorkel or swim with the jellyfish at Jellyfish Lagoon, YPT can arrange permits for an additional fee with advance notice. However, due to the dwindling jellyfish population in the lagoon, we do not recommend this activity.
Dinner and drinks at The Canoe House, which not only boasts great American and Japanese food, but our thirsty customers can sample the local Red Roaster brewery’s five varieties: Amber, Light, Stout, Wheat and a Tropical Ale, plus a cider for sale (don’t worry, sample flights are available so things don’t get too crazy!).

Bespoke Palau Tours

As part of our Palau travel packages, we are able to offer the following bespoke programs. Should what you are looking for not be on this list, please get in touch to see if we can fix it for you.

Peleliu WWII Tours

Embark on our guided WWII History Tour on Peleliu Island. As you journey through the island, you’ll discover the remnants of Japanese headquarters, gun positions, tanks, planes, and weapons scattered across the landscape.

Travel comfortably in a local van or bus, tailored to the size of your group, allowing for easy exploration of the island.

The tour features a visit to the infamous Thousand Man Cave, an expansive cave system that once served as a refuge for Japanese soldiers. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the local museum, which honors the personal items of Japanese and American soldiers who perished during the conflict.

Palau Scenic Flight Tours

Take an unforgettable flight in a doorless plane from the airport, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the famous Rock Islands and their surrounding canals. Soar over iconic sights like the Milky Way, a natural mud bath; Jellyfish Lake, and Long Beach, one of Palau’s few sandy shores.

Experience the historic German Channel, the stunning Big Drop Off, and the famous Blue Corner, a top diving destination. On your return to Koror, you’ll glide past the Natural Arch and the Japanese Friends Bridge.

This aerial adventure offers a unique perspective of Palau’s incredible beauty.

Palau Snorkelling Tours

Explore a range of sights, including the German Channel, Jellyfish Lake, Milk Lake SPA, Shark City, Blue Coral Reef, The Great Fault, and Japanese Shipwrecks.

Palau Reef and Wreck Diving in Palau

Discover the stunning underwater realm of Palau through our private reef and wreck diving excursions. Immerse yourself in colorful coral formations, encounter majestic sharks and rays, and swim alongside schools of tropical fish in a rich ecosystem celebrated for its diverse marine life and spectacular dive sites.

Dive into the adventure of exploring Palau’s WWII wrecks, which include the remnants of freighters and aircraft. With more than 1,400 species of fish and 700 varieties of coral, Palau promises a diving adventure unlike any other.

We offer access to remarkable dive locations throughout Palau, with our tours customized according to current conditions to ensure an exceptional experience while prioritizing safety. For additional information about specific dive sites, feel free to contact us.

Palau Kayaking Tours

Our kayak tours offer a delightful and engaging educational adventure suitable for everyone. Experience a perfect blend of paddling, snorkeling, birdwatching, and exploration as you navigate through Palau’s rich and diverse ecosystem. Kayaking locations include Nikko and Risong Bays as well as Long Lake.

Palau Hiking Tours

On your Palau Tour, YPT can arrange hiking tours of Palau’s Ulong Island, where over 4,000 years of human history come to life. Explore remnants of ancient defensive walls and a terraced village hidden beneath the lush tropical forest. Enjoy stunning tropical beaches, serene blue lagoons, and impressive limestone peaks during this historical tour, which also includes a snorkeling stop at one of Palau’s spectacular outer reef sites.

We also offer Rock Island hiking tours which are engaging tour and perfect for all ages. These tours highlight the natural beauty of the Rock Islands along with their WWII history. Hike to an old German lighthouse, surrounded by historic cannons, while exploring the island’s botanical wonders and enjoying birdwatching opportunities for Palau’s unique species. Perched atop the tallest peak in the Rock Islands, this tour offers a unique blend of nature and history.

Palau Cultural Land Tours

Embark on an exciting day tour of Babeldaob, the main island of Palau, which showcases Palau’s recent and ancient history. Cross the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge, enjoying scenic views along the way, including the beautiful Ngardmau Waterfalls, a perfect spot for a refreshing dip. Continue to the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, dating back to the 2nd century. Visit Ngerulmud, the world’s least populated capital, to see the unique Capitol building and its grounds. Your journey concludes in Airai, home to the oldest traditional meeting house, or bai, and the historic “Kabekel” war canoe.

Filming in Palau

Through our media arm Pioneer Media we can make arrangements for productions, journalists, or others to film within Palau from big budget to guerrilla productions. We can also arrange meetings in country, as well as correct visas for journalist wishing to do projects within Palau.

Frequently asked Questions about travel to Palau

Do I need a visa or ESTA to travel to Palau?

Despite Palau being in free association with the United States, it is independent in immigration and you can visit here even if you have been to North Korea. Most visitors, including U.S. citizens, do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, it's essential to check the current entry requirements based on your nationality. However, before you visit be sure to complete the Palau Entry Form and download the corresponding QR code.

Is it safe to travel to Palau?

Palau is extremely safe and welcoming particularly compared to other YPT favourite destinations. Duly care and diligence should be showed regardless.

What currency do they use in Palau?

Palau uses the United States Dollar (USD), but it is also easy to change money here. Major credit cards including Union Pay are also accepted, with AMEX also having some recognition.

Are there ATMs in Palau?

In Palau, banks and ATMs are conveniently located, mainly in Koror, the main commercial center. The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Major banks, such as the Bank of Hawaii and the Bank of Guam, operate branches in Palau, offering various financial services and foreign exchange options.