🐾 Traveling to Palau with Pets
Pet-Friendly Palau
Palau is welcoming to pets, particularly in resorts and outdoor areas. With its island paradise setting, many accommodations and beaches allow well-behaved pets, though strict biosecurity measures protect the unique ecosystem. Pets are common companions for hikes and beach days in this tropical haven.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
Dogs, cats, and other pets require an import permit from Palau's Bureau of Agriculture, Fisheries & Marine Resources.
Apply at least 30 days in advance with health certificate, vaccination records, and proof of microchip.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the stay.
Vaccination must be given after microchip implantation; include titer test for non-US pets.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip before vaccination.
Chip number must match all documents; bring scanner if traveling from non-standard regions.
Non-US Countries
Pets from outside the US need additional rabies antibody titer test and 180-day waiting period.
Contact Palau embassy or consulate for specific quarantine and testing requirements.
Restricted Breeds
No specific breed bans, but aggressive breeds may require muzzles and leashes in public areas.
Check with airlines and resorts for any restrictions on certain dog breeds.
Other Pets
Birds, reptiles, and exotic pets face stricter rules due to invasive species concerns; CITES permits often required.
Small mammals like rabbits may need quarantine; consult authorities for approval.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Palau on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Resorts (Koror & Babeldaob): Many resorts like Palau Royal Resort welcome pets for $20-50/night, with beach access and pet areas. Chains and boutique spots often provide bowls and leashes.
- Beach Bungalows & Villas (Rock Islands): Overwater or beachfront villas frequently allow pets at no extra charge, ideal for relaxed island stays with private beaches.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo options in Koror commonly permit pets, offering space for families and pets to enjoy home-like comforts.
- Eco-Lodges (Ngardmau): Nature-focused lodges in Babeldaob welcome pets and feature trails for walks. Great for eco-conscious families with animals.
- Campsites & Glamping: Designated camping areas in state parks are pet-friendly, with beachfront spots. Peleliu and Angaur offer scenic pet-inclusive camping.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like The Palau Hotel provide pet amenities including grooming services and dedicated play areas for VIP treatment.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Hikes
Palau's trails in Babeldaob and beaches in Koror are perfect for leashed pets, with scenic jungle paths.
Keep pets on leash to protect wildlife; national parks like Ngardmau Waterfall allow dogs.
Beaches & Lagoons
Many beaches like Long Beach and Nikko Bay have pet-friendly zones for swimming and relaxing.
Rock Islands offer secluded spots; check for turtle nesting restrictions during seasons.
Islands & Parks
Koror's waterfront parks and Melekeok's capitol grounds welcome leashed pets; outdoor eateries allow them.
Babeldaob's cultural villages permit dogs on guided tours if well-behaved.
Pet-Friendly Dining
Outdoor restaurants in Koror provide water bowls; beach bars commonly welcome pets at tables.
Ask before entering indoor areas; many spots offer pet menus or treats.
Boat Tours
Island Exploration
Some eco-boat tours allow small pets in life jackets; land-based cultural sites like ancient villages are pet-friendly on leash.
Avoid marine tours with pets to protect reefs; opt for family hikes instead.
Kayaking & Snorkel Spots
Calm lagoon kayaking allows pets in tandem kayaks; fees $10-20. Some operators require carriers for safety.
Book pet-inclusive tours; check for coral-safe practices during dry season.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Ferries & Boats: Inter-island ferries allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs $5-10 with leash/muzzle. Pets permitted on deck areas.
- Local Buses & Shuttles (Koror): Public transport in Koror allows small pets free; larger dogs $2 with restraint. Avoid crowded times.
- Taxis: Most taxis accept pets with notice; select pet-friendly options via apps. Fees may apply for cleaning.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Budget allow pets with $25-50 deposit; jeeps ideal for island roads and pet comfort.
- Flights to Palau: Check airline policies; United Airlines allows cabin pets under 20lbs for $125 each way. Book early and prepare health docs. Compare on Aviasales.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: United and Asian carriers accept in-cabin pets (under 20lbs) for $100-150. Larger pets in cargo with certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Belau National Hospital in Koror offers basic vet care; private clinics like Palau Animal Welfare Society provide 24/7 emergencies.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations $50-150 USD.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Surangel's and local stores in Koror stock pet food, meds, and accessories.
Pharmacies carry basics; import specialized items or use online delivery services.
Grooming & Day Care
Resort spas and local groomers in Koror offer services for $20-40 per session.
Daycare available at pet centers; book for diving days.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services and resorts provide sitting for $15-25/hour during excursions.
Ask hotel staff for recommendations; apps like Rover have limited presence.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in public areas, beaches, and trails to protect wildlife. Off-leash allowed in private resort grounds.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not generally required, but recommended for larger dogs on ferries or in crowded spots.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins available at resorts and parks. Fines up to $100 for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on most beaches but not in protected marine areas; respect no-entry zones for turtles.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating welcomes pets; keep them calm and away from food. Indoor entry rare.
- Protected Areas: Jellyfish Lake and Rock Islands restrict pets to prevent ecosystem disruption; stick to designated paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Palau
Palau for Families
Palau is a family dream with pristine beaches, gentle snorkeling, cultural experiences, and safe environments. Kids love marine adventures and island explorations, while parents appreciate eco-friendly facilities, stroller paths, and family-oriented resorts.
Top Family Attractions
Snorkeling at Rock Islands
UNESCO site with shallow reefs full of colorful fish; family boat tours available.
Tickets $50-100 for guided tours; life jackets for kids, suitable for ages 5+.
Jellyfish Lake
Unique lake with non-stinging jellyfish; swimming adventure for brave kids.
Entry $100 adults, $50 kids; guided hikes included, calm waters for families.
Belau National Museum (Koror)
Interactive exhibits on Palauan culture, WWII history, and marine life.
Tickets $5 adults, free for kids; hands-on displays engage young learners.
Milky Way Lagoon
Natural mud bath with healing clays; fun family spa experience in the wild.
Access via kayak tour $40-60; gentle for all ages with picnic spots.
Shark Alley Snorkel
Shallow dive site with harmless reef sharks; educational for kids.
Tours $75 adults, $40 kids; professional guides ensure safety.
Ngermea Island Beach
Pristine beach with calm waters, BBQs, and kayaks for family play.
Day pass $20; perfect for picnics and building sandcastles.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Palau on Viator. From snorkeling adventures to cultural tours, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Koror): Resorts like Palau Paradise Hotel offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for $150-250/night. Include kids' pools, cribs, and play areas.
- Island Family Bungalows (Babeldaob): Eco-resorts with kids' clubs, snorkel gear, and family activities. Properties like Hilltop Paradise cater to families.
- Beach Houses: Private rentals with kitchens and beach access for $100-200/night. Ideal for self-catering family meals.
- Vacation Villas: Spacious villas with multiple bedrooms and pools, perfect for larger families seeking privacy.
- Budget Guesthouses: Family rooms in Koror hostels for $80-120/night. Clean with shared kitchens and proximity to attractions.
- Luxury Family Options: Overwater villas at resorts like Pristine Paradise with butler service and kids' programs.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Koror with Kids
National museum, waterfront parks, easy snorkeling, and fish markets for interactive learning.
Boat rides and beach days make Koror a hub for family fun.
Babeldaob with Kids
Waterfalls, ancient stone monoliths, cultural villages, and easy jungle hikes.
Melekeok Capitol tours and river kayaking engage curious children.
Rock Islands with Kids
Shallow snorkel spots, picnic islands, and jellyfish encounters.
Guided eco-tours with kid-sized gear for safe marine exploration.
Southern Islands (Peleliu)
WWII history tours, quiet beaches, and turtle watching.
Family-friendly day trips with educational and relaxing elements.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Ferries: Kids under 5 free; 5-12 half-price. Family areas on boats with space for strollers.
- Local Transport: Koror shuttles offer family passes $10-15. Roads are stroller-friendly in main areas.
- Car Rentals: Child seats $5-10/day required for under 12; book ahead for family vans.
- Stroller-Friendly: Resorts and main paths accessible; some trails rugged, opt for carriers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer simple meals like burgers and rice for $5-10. High chairs available.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beachside spots with play areas; Koror's markets have kid-pleasing fresh seafood.
- Self-Catering: Stores like Surangel's stock baby food and diapers. Fresh markets for healthy options.
- Snacks & Treats: Tropical fruits, ice cream, and local sweets keep kids happy on adventures.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In resorts, airports, and major sites with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English-speaking staff assist.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters $10-20/hour; certified for evenings out.
- Medical Care: Koror hospital has pediatric services; travel insurance essential.
♿ Accessibility in Palau
Accessible Travel
Palau is improving accessibility with resort upgrades and guided tours for wheelchairs. Main areas in Koror and Babeldaob offer ramps and adapted boats, though some natural sites remain challenging. Tourism offices provide accessibility maps.
Transportation Accessibility
- Ferries: Main ferries have ramps and accessible decks; request assistance for boarding.
- Local Transport: Taxis and shuttles accommodate wheelchairs; some vans equipped.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-accessible options available in Koror; book via resorts.
- Airports: Koror International Airport offers full assistance, ramps, and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Belau National Museum has ramps and elevators; cultural centers accessible.
- Beaches & Parks: Select beaches like Nikko Bay offer wheelchair paths; adapted snorkel gear available.
- Nature Areas: Some trails in Babeldaob are wheelchair-friendly; boat tours for Rock Islands include accessible options.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide doors.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-Oct) for calm seas and snorkeling; wet season (Nov-Apr) for fewer crowds but rain.
Year-round tropical warmth; avoid typhoon peaks in late summer.
Budget Tips
Family tour packages save 20-30%; eco-passes include multiple attractions.
Picnics on beaches and resort all-inclusives control costs for groups.
Language
English official; Palauan spoken locally. Tourist areas fully English-friendly.
Basic greetings appreciated; kids can practice simple phrases.
Packing Essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, light clothes, and rain gear. Insect repellent essential.
Pets: Bring food, leash, waste bags, tick prevention, and import docs.
Useful Apps
Palau Dive Guide for sites, Google Maps offline, and local transport apps.
Weather apps for tropical forecasts; translation for menus.
Health & Safety
Palau safe; drink bottled water. Clinics handle minor issues; insurance covers evacuations.
Emergency: 911 or 110; mosquito protection against dengue.