Located between Guam , The Philippines and Papua New Guinea , Palau is an archipelago which is more than 640km (400 miles) long and harbors one of the world’s greatest concentrations of corals, fish and other marine life. As such, Palau has some of the world’s most spectacular snorkeling and diving locations and a well-developed diving infrastructure, with numerous operators offering a wide choice of facilities, including live-aboard dive tours to more remote sites. Palau’ s coral reefs are home to more than 1500 species of fish and 700 species of corals and sea anemones.
Plunging walls, coral gardens and World War II wrecks are all part of the range of diving available. The local marine life is abundant and varies from schools of triggerfish, snappers, butterflyfish, spadefish and barracudas to grouper, Napoleon wrasse and a variety of reef sharks. Manta and eagle rays, cuttlefish, hawksbill and green turtles are also frequently sighted. Palau , the westernmost cluster of the six major island groups that make up the Caroline Islands , lies 1000km (600 miles) east of The Philippines. The archipelago stretches over 650km (400 miles) from the atoll of Kayangel to the islet of Tobi. The Palau islands include more than 200 islands, of which only eight are inhabited. With three exceptions, all of the islands are located within a single barrier reef and represent two geological formations. The largest are volcanic and rugged with interior jungle and large areas of grassed terraces. The Rock Islands , now known as the Floating Garden Islands , are of limestone formation, while Kayangel, at the northernmost tip, is a classic coral atoll.
Palau is an underwater wonderland waiting to be explored. The pristine archipelago is made up of hundreds of islands. It features some of the world’s richest flora and fauna, both on land and in the ocean.
Palau is one of the world’s best diving destinations. With unspoiled reefs, caves and amazing marine life, scuba adventures are a must. Imagine the whitest beaches you will ever see, looking down to see gardens of coral just beneath the clear waters, and lakes filled with harmless jellyfish.
While many travel to Palau to explore the underwater scenery, you will find that the sights are just as beautiful on land. Explore the forests, waterfalls and caves that are untouched by man. Palau is a country rich in tradition and culture. Many historical sites remain intact, making you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.
With gorgeous mountains, rocky coastlines, inviting beaches and lush greenery, Palau is an ideal vacation spot for the outdoor adventurer.