Palau: Information

Republic of Palau: Geography, Culture, and Travel Guide

Palau (officially the Republic of Palau, or Beluu er a Belau) is an island country situated in the western Pacific Ocean within the broader region of Micronesia. Comprising an archipelago of more than 340 coral and volcanic islands, Palau is globally renowned for its pristine marine ecosystems, world-class scuba diving, and forward-thinking environmental stewardship.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Capital: Ngerulmud (located in Melekeok State on Babeldaob Island)

  Kids World Travel Guide

• Largest City & Commercial Center: Koror

  Wikipedia

• Official Languages: Palauan and English

  Britannica

• Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

  State.gov – State Department

• Total Land Area: Approximately 466 to 488 square kilometers

  Britannica

• Population: Approximately 18,000 residents

  Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Government: Unitary presidential constitutional republic in a Compact of Free Association with the United States

  State.gov – State Department

Geography and Climate

The Palauan archipelago stretches across the southwest corner of Micronesia, lying southeast of the Philippines and north of Indonesia.

• Islands and Topography: The largest landmass is Babeldaob (or Babelthuap), a rugged, volcanic island home to Mount Ngerchelchuus, the nation’s highest point. To the south lie the iconic Rock Islands (Chelbacheb)hundreds of mushroom-shaped limestone islets enclosed within a barrier reef.

  EBSCO+ 1

• Climate: Palau features a tropical rainforest climate year-round, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (82°F). High humidity and abundant rainfall support lush terrestrial vegetation and complex reef networks.

  Wikipedia

Government and Economy

Palau gained its sovereignty on October 1, 1994, transitioning from a United Nations Trust Territory administered by the United States. Under its Compact of Free Association, the U.S. provides defense and financial assistance, while Palauan citizens enjoy visa-free entry to live and work in the United States.