Custom travel to Palau

Palau is one of the planet's most extraordinary natural sanctuaries — 340 Micronesian islands in the heart of the western Pacific, of which 250 are the Rock Islands (UNESCO 2012, one of the world's 26 mixed natural and cultural sites) — mushroom-shaped limestone formations emerging from a turquoise lagoon. One of the world's most prestigious diving destinations — Blue Corner ranked world top 5 (hammerhead sharks, manta rays, barracudas), German Channel (manta rays), Jellyfish Lake (lake of golden jellyfish that don't sting, world-unique experience, accessible by snorkeling). 18,000-inhabitant country committed to conservation — the Palau Pledge (commitment signed by every visitor on the passport, to respect the environment) has been mandatory since 2017. Reserved for experienced divers and lovers of preserved nature.

Highlights

  • Rock Islands (UNESCO mixed): 250 mushroom islands
  • Blue Corner: world top 5 diving (sharks, rays)
  • Jellyfish Lake: swim with non-stinging golden jellyfish
  • German Channel: giant manta rays
  • Milky Way Lagoon: milky water and white mud
  • Peleliu: WWII battlefield and wreck diving

Frequently asked questions

When?

November-May (dry season, optimal diving).

How long?

8-10 days minimum for 5-6 days diving.

Budget?

€4,200-€5,800 per person for 8-10 days in comfort, excluding flights. Liveaboard: €8,000-€12,000. Flights: €1,800-€2,800.

Visa?

No for French citizens < 30 days. Palau Pledge mandatory to sign on arrival.

Required diving level?

Open Water+ for most sites. Advanced+ recommended for Blue Corner (strong currents) and German Channel.

Jellyfish Lake: risk?

None. Golden jellyfish have lost stinging ability (isolated from Pacific 12,000 years). Snorkeling only (diving forbidden).

Non-diving?

Yes — Rock Islands kayak, Jellyfish Lake snorkeling, Milky Way Lagoon, hidden beaches. 7 days enough for non-divers.

Allowed sunscreen?

Reef-safe only (without oxybenzone, octinoxate). Bring yours or buy locally.

Combine?

Yes: Palau + Japan (Tokyo stopover), Palau + Philippines (Manila), Palau + Taiwan (Taipei).

Tips?

Yes, 10-15% in restaurants (American heritage, USD used).