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Ngerulmud, Belau - Things to Do in Ngerulmud

Ngerulmud

Ngerulmud, Belau - Complete Travel Guide

Ngerulmud, the capital of Palau (Belau), is one of the world's smallest capital cities, home to fewer than 400 residents. This planned city was established in 2006 when the government relocated from Koror, and it serves as the political heart of this Pacific island nation. The city is dominated by the impressive Capitol Complex, a striking white government building that houses the Olbiil Era Kelulau (Palau National Congress), and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the governance of this young democracy. Despite its small size, Ngerulmud provides an excellent base for exploring Babeldaob Island, Palau's largest landmass, which offers lush tropical landscapes, ancient stone monoliths, and pristine natural areas. The capital's location on Babeldaob makes it an ideal starting point for discovering Palau's incredible biodiversity, from dense jungles and cascading waterfalls to traditional villages where Palauan culture thrives. While most tourists focus on Palau's world-renowned diving sites, Ngerulmud offers a more intimate cultural experience and serves as a gateway to the country's terrestrial wonders.

Top Ngerulmud

Capitol Complex Tour

Visit the striking white Capitol Building that houses Palau's government, featuring impressive architecture inspired by traditional Palauan meeting houses. The building offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and provides insight into Palau's political system and democratic processes.

Booking Tip: Free guided tours are available on weekdays during business hours, typically 9 AM to 4 PM. Contact the Visitor Services office in advance to arrange tours, especially for groups, and bring identification as this is a government facility.

Babeldaob Island Exploration

Discover the largest island in Palau through scenic drives along the compact road system, visiting traditional villages, ancient stone monoliths, and pristine natural areas. The island offers diverse landscapes from dense tropical forests to rolling grasslands and coastal mangroves.

Booking Tip: Rent a car from Koror for $50-80 per day as public transport is limited. Plan full-day excursions and bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities outside Ngerulmud are sparse. Best explored during dry season months.

Ngardmau Waterfall Hiking

Trek to Palau's highest waterfall through lush tropical rainforest, following well-maintained trails that showcase the island's incredible biodiversity. The 100-foot cascade offers excellent swimming opportunities in natural pools surrounded by pristine jungle.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides for $30-50 per person through village contacts or guesthouses. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring insect repellent. Early morning starts (7-8 AM) offer cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Traditional Village Visits

Experience authentic Palauan culture by visiting traditional villages where locals maintain customary practices, traditional architecture, and ancient customs. Participate in cultural demonstrations, learn about traditional crafts, and enjoy local hospitality in community settings.

Booking Tip: Arrange visits through local cultural organizations or guesthouses for $20-40 per person. Always bring small gifts or donations for the community. Respect photography restrictions and dress modestly when visiting sacred or traditional areas.

Babeldaob Stone Monoliths

Explore ancient megalithic stone structures scattered across Babeldaob Island, including mysterious stone faces and ceremonial platforms that date back centuries. These archaeological sites offer insights into pre-colonial Palauan civilization and traditional spiritual practices.

Booking Tip: Access is typically free, but hiring local guides for $25-40 enhances the experience with historical context and easier site location. Some sites require short hikes through private land, so local guidance is recommended for respectful access.

Getting There

Ngerulmud is accessible only through Palau International Airport (ROR) in Airai, located about 20 kilometers south of the capital. Most visitors fly via Guam, Philippines, Taipei, or South Korea, with United Airlines, China Airlines, and Palau Pacific Airways providing regular service. From the airport, rental cars, taxis, or pre-arranged transfers are necessary as no public transportation connects the airport to Ngerulmud. The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes along well-maintained roads, passing through Koror and across the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge to reach Babeldaob Island.

Getting Around

Transportation in and around Ngerulmud is limited, with rental cars being the most practical option for exploring the capital and Babeldaob Island. Several rental agencies operate from Koror and the airport, offering vehicles from $50-80 per day. Taxis are available but expensive for longer journeys, typically charging $2-3 per mile. The compact road network makes navigation straightforward, though some rural areas require 4WD vehicles during rainy seasons. Walking is feasible within Ngerulmud itself due to its small size, but distances between attractions on Babeldaob necessitate motorized transport.

Where to Stay

Ngerulmud town center
Melekeok village area
Airai near the airport
Koror commercial district
Ngchesar traditional area
Ngardmau Waterfall region

Food & Dining

Dining options in Ngerulmud are extremely limited, with most restaurants and food establishments located in nearby Koror, about 30 minutes away. The few local options include small family-run establishments serving traditional Palauan cuisine featuring fresh seafood, taro, and tropical fruits. Visitors should plan to drive to Koror for diverse dining experiences, including international cuisine, or arrange meals through their accommodations. Local specialties to try include fruit bat soup (a delicacy), fresh reef fish, and traditional taro-based dishes. Many visitors opt to shop for groceries in Koror and prepare meals if staying in self-catering accommodations.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Palau

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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L'ANCIENNE ÉCOLE

4.7 /5
(2423 reviews) 3

Il Ghiottone

4.5 /5
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il Mulino

4.5 /5
(1946 reviews) 2
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La Cucina Italiana Raleigh

4.8 /5
(1760 reviews) 2
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Casa D'Angelo Ristorante

4.6 /5
(1675 reviews) 3
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Cafe Vico – Authentic Italian Restaurant & Catering in Fort Lauderdale

4.6 /5
(1479 reviews) 3
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Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ngerulmud is during the dry season from December to April, when rainfall is lower and humidity more manageable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Temperatures remain consistently warm year-round (80-85°F), but the dry season offers clearer skies and better conditions for hiking and exploring Babeldaob Island. The wet season (May-November) brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity, though it's also when the landscape is most lush and waterfalls are at their most impressive. Typhoon season (June-December) poses some risk, though direct hits are rare. For cultural events and festivals, plan visits around Palau's Independence Day in October or traditional celebrations.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in US dollars as ATMs are scarce outside Koror, and most local businesses don't accept credit cards
Respect local customs by asking permission before photographing people or traditional sites, and dress modestly when visiting villages
Stock up on supplies, snacks, and water in Koror before heading to Ngerulmud, as shopping options in the capital are very limited

Activities in Ngerulmud