Transportation in Palau

Transportation in Palau

Your complete guide to getting around Palau - from airport transfers to local transport

Getting Around Palau

Palau's transport is built around rental cars, hotel shuttles, and the occasional taxi, there's no scheduled public transit to speak of. A small car is the cheapest way to roam Koror and the bridge-linked islands, while resort shuttles (often free for guests) are the most hassle-free hop between town and the dive lodges on the Rock Islands. Taxis exist but are a splurge. Flagging one on the street is rare, so you'll need to call or ask your hotel. First-timers should book wheels in advance, counters at the airport run out fast, and driving is on the right with a 25 mph limit that locals treat as advisory. Download the offline map before you leave Wi-Fi; street signs are sparse and GPS names don't always match what's painted on the curb. If you're island-hopping for diving, confirm whether your operator includes pickup. Many bundle it, so paying extra for a taxi is money wasted. From Palau International Airport, the simplest move is the hotel shuttle if you booked one, look for the signboard just outside baggage claim. No shuttle? The rental-car kiosk is ten steps to the left. Grab the keys and you're on the main road in two minutes. Skip the lone taxi unless you're stuck, it's the priciest ride on the island.

Quick Transportation Tips

Rent a car at the airport. Palau has no public transit network. Taxis are scarce. Having wheels saves hours of waiting.

Download the Palau Ride app. Use it for the few taxi operators that accept bookings. Check availability first.

Most dive shops provide free shuttle pickups from Koror hotels. Arrange this when you book. Confirm the night before.

Ask your hotel to call a taxi the night before. Same-day requests often go unanswered. Plan ahead.