Palau

Babelthuap Airport

The capital of Palau is Ngerulmud. It is located on the island of Babeldaob, which is the largest island in Palau. Ngerulmud became the capital of Palau in 2006, when it replaced Koror as the capital. The decision to move the capital to Ngerulmud was made to decentralize the government from Koror, which was becoming overcrowded and lacked space for expansion.

Ngerulmud is a small town with a population of approximately 300 people. It is located inland, surrounded by dense jungle and hills. The town was built from scratch to become the new capital, and construction began in 2002. The government invested heavily in building the infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and government buildings.

One of the most notable buildings in Ngerulmud is the Capitol Building, which houses the Palauan government. The building is designed in a modern architectural style and features a dome-shaped roof. The Capitol Building is surrounded by a large reflecting pool, which is meant to symbolize the nation's connection to water.

Ngerulmud is not a major tourist destination, but visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol Building and other government buildings. The town is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including lush jungle and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can also explore nearby islands, including the famous Rock Islands, which are known for their crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Capitol of Palau

Jellyfish Lake is a renowned marine lake located on Eil Malk Island in Palau, an archipelago nation in the western Pacific Ocean. This unique and mesmerizing destination is famous for its large population of golden jellyfish (Mastigias papua etpisoni), which have evolved over thousands of years in isolation from the open ocean.

One of the most remarkable features of Jellyfish Lake is the fascinating symbiotic relationship between the jellyfish and the algae (zooxanthellae) that live within their tissues. During the day, the jellyfish migrate across the lake in a rhythmic pattern, following the sun's movement to maximize their exposure to sunlight. The algae within the jellyfish's tissues photosynthesize and produce food for the jellyfish, which in turn provides a safe and nutrient-rich environment for the algae.

The golden jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake have lost their ability to sting over time due to the lack of natural predators in the lake, making them completely harmless to humans. This unique adaptation allows visitors to swim and snorkel among the jellyfish without any risk of being stung, providing an unforgettable and surreal experience.

Visitors to Jellyfish Lake can take guided tours or hire local boat operators to reach the lake and enjoy snorkeling or swimming with the jellyfish. The lake is relatively shallow and has clear, calm waters, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and swimming abilities.

In addition to the golden jellyfish, Jellyfish Lake is also home to a diverse array of other marine life, including various species of fish, crustaceans, and snails. The surrounding lush vegetation and pristine natural environment add to the beauty and tranquility of the lake, making it a peaceful and serene oasis in the midst of Palau's stunning island landscapes.

To protect the delicate ecosystem of Jellyfish Lake and ensure the continued survival of its unique inhabitants, visitors are required to follow strict guidelines and regulations when visiting the lake. These guidelines include avoiding the use of sunscreen and other chemical products that could harm the jellyfish and the lake's ecosystem, as well as adhering to designated swimming and snorkeling areas to minimize human impact on the environment.

Jellyfish Lake

The Rock Islands of Palau are a collection of over 200 small islands located in the western Pacific Ocean. The islands are famous for their unique and unusual rock formations, which were created over millions of years by volcanic activity and erosion. These unusual geological formations are surrounded by crystal-clear waters and are home to an array of stunning coral reefs and marine life.

Visitors to the Rock Islands can take a boat tour to see these geological wonders up close, and can even swim and snorkel in the clear waters. Many of the islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including exotic birds, bats, and monkeys.

In addition to its geological wonders, the Rock Islands are also rich in cultural and historical significance. The islands have been inhabited by the local Palauan people for thousands of years and many of the islands are considered sacred by the local community.

The Rock Islands of Palau were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012, recognizing the unique and exceptional natural beauty of the area. Today, the Rock Islands remain one of the top tourist destinations in Palau, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience their natural beauty and cultural significance.

Rock Islands Palau

Kayangel Island is a coral atoll located in the northernmost part of the Republic of Palau in the western Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Kayangel State, which is one of the sixteen states of Palau. The island has an area of approximately 1.4 square kilometers and a population of around 138 people.

Kayangel Island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and fishing, and is home to a number of endemic species, such as the Kayangel Atoll Fruit Dove and the Kayangel Rice Rat. Visitors can also explore the island's mangrove forests, coral reefs, and tidal pools.

The island has a small airstrip and a small harbor, which are used for transportation and trade. The local economy is mainly based on subsistence fishing, tourism, and the production of copra (dried coconut meat).

Kayangel Island is considered one of the most remote and unspoiled destinations in Palau, and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional Micronesian culture and hospitality. The island is accessible by boat or plane from Koror, the capital of Palau.

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