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Ngardmau Waterfall, Belau - Things to Do in Ngardmau Waterfall

Ngardmau Waterfall

Ngardmau Waterfall, Belau - Complete Travel Guide

Ngardmau Waterfall, located in the Ngardmau State of Palau (Belau), is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in this Pacific island nation. This impressive 100-foot cascade plunges dramatically through lush tropical rainforest, creating a pristine swimming hole at its base surrounded by towering jungle vegetation. The waterfall is part of Palau's largest watershed and represents the country's commitment to environmental conservation. Reaching Ngardmau Waterfall requires a moderate hike through dense tropical forest, making it an adventure that combines physical activity with incredible natural beauty. The journey to the falls takes visitors through some of Palau's most pristine jungle terrain, home to unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. The crystal-clear pool at the base of the waterfall provides a refreshing reward after the trek, offering visitors a chance to swim in one of the most beautiful natural settings in Micronesia.

Top Ngardmau Waterfall

Hike to Ngardmau Waterfall

start the main attraction - a moderate 45-minute hike through pristine rainforest to reach Palau's tallest waterfall. The trail winds through dense jungle vegetation, crossing small streams and offering glimpses of native wildlife along the way. Once at the falls, enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear pool while surrounded by towering jungle walls.

Booking Tip: Most tours cost $80-120 per person and include transportation and guide services. Book during dry season (December-April) for best trail conditions. Look for operators who provide sturdy hiking shoes and waterproof bags for electronics.

Jungle Photography and Bird Watching

The trek to Ngardmau Waterfall offers exceptional opportunities to photograph Palau's endemic species and pristine rainforest ecosystem. The diverse habitat supports numerous bird species, including the Palau fruit dove and Micronesian kingfisher. Early morning hikes provide the best lighting and wildlife activity for photography enthusiasts.

Booking Tip: Specialized photography tours range from $100-150 per person and include professional guides familiar with wildlife behavior. Best times are 6-8 AM for optimal lighting and animal activity. Choose operators who provide telephoto lens rentals if needed.

Rock Island Hopping Combined Tour

Many operators combine the waterfall hike with visits to Palau's famous Rock Islands, creating a full-day adventure that showcases both terrestrial and marine environments. These tours typically include stops at hidden lagoons, limestone caves, and pristine beaches. The combination provides a complete introduction to Palau's diverse natural wonders.

Booking Tip: Full-day combination tours cost $180-250 per person including lunch and snorkeling gear. Book with operators who have small group sizes (maximum 8 people) for better experience. Confirm that waterproof storage is provided for personal items.

Traditional Palauan Cultural Experience

Learn about the cultural significance of Ngardmau's watershed to Palauan people through guided experiences that include traditional forest knowledge and conservation practices. Local guides share stories about medicinal plants, traditional uses of forest resources, and the spiritual importance of the waterfall. Some tours include traditional lunch preparation using local ingredients.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours cost $90-130 per person and should be booked with certified local guides from Ngardmau State. Best to arrange 2-3 days in advance through hotels or local tour operators. Look for experiences that include traditional meal components.

Sunrise or Sunset Forest Meditation

Experience the waterfall area during golden hour for a more spiritual and peaceful encounter with nature. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures, better wildlife viewing, and impressive light filtering through the forest canopy. Evening visits provide dramatic lighting on the waterfall and a chance to hear the forest's nocturnal sounds beginning.

Booking Tip: Sunrise tours (5:30 AM start) or sunset tours cost $70-100 per person with smaller group sizes. Book with operators experienced in low-light conditions who provide headlamps and safety equipment. Confirm pickup times as they vary seasonally.

Getting There

Ngardmau Waterfall is located on Babeldaob Island, about 45 minutes north of Koror by car. Most visitors fly into Palau International Airport (ROR) and stay in Koror, then arrange day trips to the waterfall. Rental cars are available but many visitors prefer guided tours that include transportation, as the trailhead can be difficult to locate. The access road is paved but narrow, and having a local guide familiar with the area is highly recommended for first-time visitors.

Getting Around

Transportation to Ngardmau Waterfall typically requires a combination of road travel and hiking. Most visitors join organized tours that provide pickup from Koror hotels and transportation to the trailhead. For independent travelers, rental cars or taxis can reach the parking area, but the final approach to the waterfall requires a 45-minute hike through jungle terrain. The trail is well-marked but can be muddy and slippery, so proper footwear and a local guide are strongly recommended for safety and navigation.

Where to Stay

Koror City Center
Airai (near airport)
Juba Island
Ngarchelong (northern Babeldaob)
Ngerulmud area
Melekeok waterfront

Food & Dining

Dining options near Ngardmau Waterfall are limited, so most visitors eat in Koror before or after their waterfall excursion. Many tour operators provide packed lunches featuring local specialties like taro, fresh fruit, and grilled fish. In Koror, visitors can enjoy traditional Palauan cuisine including coconut crab, fruit bat soup (where legally available), and fresh seafood. Local restaurants serve a mix of Palauan, Filipino, and international cuisines, with many establishments offering outdoor dining with ocean views.

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Ngardmau Waterfall is during Palau's dry season from December to April, when rainfall is lower and trail conditions are more favorable. During this period, the waterfall still maintains good flow while hiking paths are less muddy and slippery. Early morning visits (7-9 AM) offer the coolest temperatures, best wildlife viewing opportunities, and optimal lighting for photography. The wet season (May-November) brings heavier rainfall and more challenging hiking conditions, though the waterfall is at its most powerful during this time.

Insider Tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, as both sun exposure and mosquitoes can be intense in the jungle environment
Wear quick-dry clothing and sturdy water shoes that can handle both hiking and swimming, as the rocks around the pool can be slippery
Pack all electronics and valuables in waterproof bags, and consider bringing a dry bag for clothes if you plan to swim at the waterfall

Activities in Ngardmau Waterfall