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Kayaking the turquoise waters of Palau - Palau Kayaking Expedition, Palau
Kayaking the turquoise waters of Palau
Navigate through pristine islands and coral reefs in Palau - Palau Kayaking Expedition, Palau
Navigate through pristine islands and coral reefs in Palau  | Maddison Toddman
Explore hidden lagoons and limestone passages by kayak - Palau Kayaking Expedition, Palau
Explore hidden lagoons and limestone passages by kayak  | Toby Story
Close encounter with a Hawksbill Turtle in Palau - Palau Kayaking Expedition, Palau
Close encounter with a Hawksbill Turtle in Palau
Camp for the night and enjoy Palau's stunning beaches - Palau Kayaking Expedition, Palau
Camp for the night and enjoy Palau's stunning beaches  | Josh Burkinshaw
A sheltered beach in Palau's tropical paradise - Palau Kayaking Expedition, Palau
A sheltered beach in Palau's tropical paradise  | Maddison Toddman

Palau Kayaking Expedition

Paddle through Palau's UNESCO-listed Rock Islands, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, explore ancient village sites and WWII relics, and discover one of the Pacific's most extraordinary island destinations by kayak.

Palau
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 1 review

9 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: PPE
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 9 Days
Activities
  • 6 days kayak
Accommodation
  • 3 nights hotel
  • 5 nights beach camping
Meals
  • 7 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 8 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

44kg of CO2-e PP per day

(309kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Explore Palau’s pristine marine wilderness by kayak, with exclusive access to the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands
  • Snorkel vibrant coral reefs and encounter turtles, rays, reef sharks and stingless jellyfish
  • Camp on secluded beaches far from the tourist trail, surrounded by natural beauty
  • Encounter diverse marine wildlife
  • Discover WWII relics and ancient village sites inaccessible to most travellers
  • Travel with expert local and Western guides committed to sustainable tourism
  • Navigate the unique mushroom-shaped islands of Palau

Overview

Experience Palau the way few travellers do, by paddling through the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands, where hidden lagoons, secluded beaches and spectacular coral reefs reveal themselves one stroke at a time. Set in the western Pacific, Palau is an archipelago of more than 300 jungle-cloaked limestone islands rising from crystal-clear lagoons and home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life. Each day reveals another side of this remarkable island nation, from snorkelling alongside turtles, rays, reef sharks and the famous stingless jellyfish to exploring WWII relics and ancient village sites hidden among the islands. Camp on secluded beaches beneath the stars and discover why sea kayaking is the ultimate way to experience Palau's extraordinary marine landscape. Guided by experienced local and Western guides, this fully supported expedition combines adventure, discovery and immersion in a destination unlike any other.

Itinerary

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Once you arrive into Palau International Airport, you’ll be met just outside in the collection zone by a representative and transferred to the group hotel, this is where your guide will meet you. Later in the day you'll gather with your guide and the group for a trip briefing. During this session, your guide will provide dry bags for storing your personal items during the kayak journey. Any non-essential luggage you won't need while kayaking, along with passports and other valuables, can be safely stored in Koror and retrieved upon your return. Tonight, following the briefing, you'll enjoy a dinner with your guide and meet your fellow paddlers. Overnight: Palau Central Hotel or similar Please note- Arrival transfer from Koror Airport included, must be applied in advance to be linked to your flight & arrival time

Meals: D

After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the kayak base for a full fit-out and packing session before launching our kayaks from Malakal Harbour. Within minutes, we’re surrounded by jungle-clad limestone islands rising from turquoise waters; the first glimpse of the stunning Rock Islands landscape we’ll be immersed in all week. We begin with an easy paddle through the calm waters of Pincer’s Lagoon, where we’ll stop to snorkel among colourful coral gardens and reef fish; a perfect introduction to Palau’s spectacular underwater world. After lunch, we continue exploring West Ngeruktabel’s lagoon, a maze of craggy limestone islands, rock arches, and hidden caves. This area is also home to several WWII relics, now transformed into thriving artificial reefs teeming with marine life. In the late afternoon, we rendezvous with our supply skiff and transfer to Ulong Island, one of the largest and most beautiful in the Rock Islands group, known for its palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear bays. We set up camp by the water and enjoy a relaxed dinner beneath a blanket of tropical stars. Overnight: Tented Camp on Ulong Island

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in the beauty of Ulong Island, combining kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. Beyond its stunning tropical landscapes, Ulong is home to a UNESCO World Heritage village site that was mysteriously deserted over 500 years ago. We’ll paddle through tranquil lagoons, secluded coves, and along sandy shores, pausing for a picnic lunch beneath the shade of palm trees. While snorkelling, we’ll search for Palau’s four colorful species of anemone fish and admire the hundreds of brilliantly hued parrotfish. Overnight: Tented Camp on Ulong Island

Meals: B,L,D

We’ll pack up camp and set off by kayak towards Ngchus on southern Ngeruktabel Island. Our route takes us across the passage to Ngebedangel Island, where we’ll explore the rugged coastline to find an ideal spot for a scenic lunch break. Ngchus Beach, a hidden paradise nestled behind a rocky island and framed by sparkling turquoise waters, will be our destination. Expect about five hours of paddling today. After setting up camp for the night, we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner under a starlit sky. Overnight: Tented Camp on Ngermeaus Beach

Meals: B,L,D

Today we enjoy a return paddle south to Mecherchar Island (Eil Malk), home to one of Palau’s most famous natural wonders, Jellyfish Lake. This saltwater marine lake has been known to contain millions of non-stinging golden jellyfish. Geographically isolated within the lake and without natural predators, the jellyfish have evolved to be stingless, creating a remarkable opportunity to snorkel among them. After our time at Jellyfish Lake, we return towards our campsite, exploring the sheltered lagoons and islets of Mecherchar Island along the way. Overnight: Tented Camp on Ngermeaus Beach

Meals: B,L,D

After breaking camp this morning, we continue north along the eastern edge of Ngeruktabel Island, making our way toward one of Palau’s most extraordinary natural features: Long Lake. Stretching for roughly 1.6 kilometres, this sheltered body of water is Palau’s longest lake and is reached via a narrow, winding passage through mangroves and crystal-clear tidal channels. Once inside, we enjoy a peaceful paddle through this tranquil lagoon, which serves as an important nursery habitat for baby eagle rays, juvenile turtles, and a host of nesting bird species. Overhead, white-tailed tropicbirds and white-breasted wood swallows circle above the water, adding to the magic of this quiet, secluded environment. After time spent exploring the lake and soaking in the serenity of the surroundings, we continue our journey toward Ngeremidu Beach, a gorgeous stretch of white sand that will be our campsite for the next two nights. Enjoy a swim, relax on the beach or simply take in the scenery before settling in for another night under the Palauan stars. Overnight: Tented Camp on Ngeremidu Beach

Meals: B,L,D

Today our paddling focuses on the eastern coastline of Ngeruktabel Island, one of the most biodiverse sections of the Rock Islands. We snorkel over Einstein’s Coral Gardens, where vast, multi-coloured brain coral colonies thrive in shallow, protected waters. Nearby, we explore Darwin’s Wall, a dramatic coral-covered drop-off that attracts abundant marine life and is regarded as one of the area’s most spectacular snorkelling sites. Depending on conditions, we may also visit Megapod Beach, where powder-white sands meet dense tropical rainforest, or paddle to Secret Lake, accessible only at low tide via a natural archway and home to sponges, sea squirts and soft corals. Our final highlight of the day is a visit to the Milky Way Lagoon, famous for its chalky, mineral-rich waters and natural white clay mud, traditionally used for a do-it-yourself skin treatment. We return to camp at Ngeremidu Beach for our final night under the stars.

Meals: B,L,D

On our final day in the islands, we enjoy a true highlight of the expedition with an Outer Reef snorkelling extravaganza. Palau’s world-famous Ngemelis Wall, more commonly known as the Big Drop-Off. Rated by Jacques Cousteau as one of the finest wall dives on the planet, the reef plunges more than 300 m / 984 ft to the ocean floor, with its upper reaches decorated by spectacular sea fans, coral whips and sponges. Snorkelling here is outstanding, with crystal-clear water and visibility often reaching 30 m / 98 ft, offering the chance to see sharks, rays, turtles and vast schools of reef fish. After this unforgettable final marine experience, we farewell the Rock Islands and return to Koror by speedboat. We transfer to our hotel where hot showers, comfortable beds and modern facilities await, marking a relaxed end to our time on the water. Overnight: Palau Central Hotel or similar Please note: Dinner tonight is not included.

Meals: B,L

After breakfast arrangements, the trip concludes and our adventure of this amazing destination is sadly over. Transfers to the airport can be arranged via the Hotel, and we hope you have had an amazing experience in pristine Palau. Please note: Airport transfer is not included, but can be arranged with your hotel at own cost. We recommend you organize this with the hotel reception on arrival day 1, or on day 7 post kayak (additional local charge applies).

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

9 scheduled departures between 14 Nov 2026 and 27 Nov 2027.

  • Departs 14 Nov 2026 – ends 22 Nov 2026 (9 days)
  • Departs 28 Nov 2026 – ends 6 Dec 2026 (9 days)
  • Departs 16 Jan 2027 – ends 24 Jan 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 30 Jan 2027 – ends 7 Feb 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 13 Feb 2027 – ends 21 Feb 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 3 Mar 2027 – ends 11 Mar 2027 (9 days)
  • … and 3 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners
  • 2 nights hotel, 6 nights supported beach camping
  • Arrival transfer from Koror Airport (must be requested in advance to be linked to flight arrival time)
  • All boat transfers in Palau
  • Kayak gear and equipment
  • Dry bags for your personal gear
  • Camping equipment including tents, mattresses, sheets and pillows
  • Experienced western and local guide
  • Group first aid kit
  • All meals indicated in the itinerary

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Departure airport transfer from hotel to airport
  • Single Kayak fee
  • Snorkelling equipment
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Tips for local staff
  • Items of personal nature such as Wifi & laundry

Reviews (1)

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Paddling in Palau was like paddling in paradise. The colour of the water was incredible - so many nuanced shades of blue & aqua. And the snorkeling was better than any I’ve done in Australia. Beautiful corals, huge variety of fish, loads of reef sharks & turtles. We even snorkeled over a fallen Japanese fighter plane from WW2. The local guide Mac was very knowledgeable and held fabulous map sessions daily to show where we were going and how Palau is placed in the world with discussions of recent and long past history. At all times we were safe, with Mac’s offsider Dion keeping the group paddling together as much as possible. As for fitness - yes you need to be fit. 12-20km of paddling each day. There are stops for snorkeling, lunch or sometimes a walk but this is an active holiday that requires training beforehand. If you are fit you will love it.

The campsites on the beach are truly lovely with covered shelters sheds for the kitchen area and long drops. There were no other campers at each site as the local operators were the only ones with camping permits.

Loved this trip. Highly recommend it.

Catherine|NSW, Australia
1 Apr 2026

Extra trip info

FAQsWhy Book With Us
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Palau may be famous for its world-class diving, but kayaking is one of the most immersive ways to experience the archipelago. From the seat of your kayak, you'll quietly explore the maze of the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, paddle through hidden lagoons and beneath towering limestone islands, land on secluded beaches and discover places that few visitors ever reach. It's a perspective of Palau that even many divers never experience.

Your journey to Palau begins with a promise. Before entering the country, every visitor is required to sign the Palau Pledge, a unique passport pledge and entry requirement that encourages travellers to protect Palau's fragile environment and respect its culture. Co-written by the nation's schoolchildren, the pledge is a powerful reminder that every visitor has a role to play in preserving this extraordinary island nation for future generations.

Palau's culture is as fascinating as its landscapes. While the islands are renowned for their spectacular marine environment, they're also home to one of the world's few matrilineal societies, where women play a central role in community life. That's right! Family land is traditionally passed down through the female line, women manage clan finances, and female elders have an important voice in choosing village chiefs. During your expedition, you'll also explore ancient village sites and gain insights into Palau's rich history and traditions from your experienced guides.

From colourful coral reefs to sea turtles, rays, reef sharks and the famous stingless jellyfish, Palau offers some of the richest marine life in the Pacific. While kayaking and snorkelling, you'll have opportunities to encounter these incredible species in their natural habitat. Wildlife sightings vary with conditions and can't be guaranteed, but every day offers the chance to experience one of the world's most pristine marine environments.

Camping in the Rock Islands is an unforgettable part of the expedition. Staying in the heart of this extraordinary archipelago allows you to experience the islands from sunrise to sunset, adding a sense of immersion that's simply not possible on a day trip. It's a unique opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and wake each morning surrounded by the spectacular scenery that makes Palau one of the world's most remarkable kayaking destinations.

You don't need to be an expert kayaker, but you should be comfortable spending several hours paddling each day and have a reasonable level of fitness. This expedition is graded Introductory to Moderate and is led by experienced local and Western guides who provide support throughout the journey. Before departure, all participants are required to complete a kayaking experience form to help ensure the trip is suitable for their experience and ability.

Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water shoes and swimwear for regular snorkelling stops. We provide your kayak, paddling equipment, dry bags and all camping equipment, including tents, mattresses, sheets and pillows, so you only need to bring your personal clothing and essentials. For a complete packing list, refer to the Trip Notes provided before departure.

  • Adventure in a Remote, Unspoiled Destination: Guests looking for a unique adventure in a remote and ecologically pristine environment would be drawn to this expedition. The chance to paddle in areas where nature thrives unimpeded by mass tourism, including rare marine species, makes it appealing.
  • Immersion in Nature and Sustainability: Travelers who value sustainability and responsible tourism will appreciate the minimal impact of this trip. From camping on secluded beaches to engaging with local ecosystems responsibly, it appeals to those who want to experience nature up close while preserving it for future generations.
  • Expert Guidance: The trip features local and western guides with deep knowledge of the area, ensuring not only safety but a rich educational experience about the ecology and history of Palau.
  • This journey stands out because it offers exclusive access to one of the most pristine marine ecosystems in the world, combines adventure with cultural history, and is underpinned by a commitment to sustainable, responsible tourism.

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