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9-Nights Palau: Snorkeling and Kayaking the Pristine Seas - Signature Land

Palau
9-Nights Palau: Snorkeling and Kayaking the Pristine Seas - Signature Land
Palau
National Geographic Expeditions
Vacation Offer ID 1535890
Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.
Overview

National Geographic Expeditions

Identified by National Geographic’s Pristine Seas project as one of the richest marine ecosystems on the planet, the Pacific archipelago of Palau is home to an aquatic wonderland of more than 1,300 species of fish and some 700 species of corals. This beautiful island nation is a world leader in marine conservation, with an ancestral tradition of environmental protection that dates back thousands of years, and an ambitious modern-day conservation program that includes the creation of a historic 193,000-square-mile marine reserve—one of the largest of its kind in the world. Set out on an unforgettable adventure to experience Palau’s treasures firsthand. Snorkel and kayak among emerald islets in the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Rock Islands, experience the “underwater Serengeti” of Ngemelis Island, hike through lush forests and meet Palauan people who strive to honor and protect their natural heritage.

Vacation Inclusions

  • Transfers upon arrival and departure
  • Transportation provided on-trip
  • Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Daily activities and excursions as indicated in the itinerary
  • All gratuities except the Expedition Leader

Featured Destinations

Palau

Palau

An independent nation located 2,000 miles south of Japan, the Republic of Palau is best-known for their “Rock Islands,” a small cluster of mushroom-shaped islets located in a large lagoon that harbors one of the world’s greatest concentrations of corals, fish, and other marine life. The beauty of this 400-mile-long archipelago has given rise to resorts and aquatic activities. Enjoy the tropical splendor of the mangrove and coconut palm forests as you relax in their secluded and idyllic shade.
Destination Guide
Koror

Koror

Koror, the principal city and island area of Palau (though not the largest), is where most visitors stay. This is a convenient base for exploring Babeldoab and the Rock Islands. Returning visitors will notice that it is becoming more modern and traffic is getting worse. It has restaurants and stores and some excellent budget hotels as well as the oceanfront Palau Pacific Resort, a high-end hotel in the suburb of Meyuns. If you are not staying there, you can use the hotel's facilities (a pool as well as great close-in snorkeling) for a fee.

Visit the Belau National Museum to catch up on the islands' cultural history and the Senior Citizens Center to watch seniors teaching handicraft traditions to a new generation. The Etpison Museum also has superb displays and a great restaurant/gift shop. The Palau Aquarium is a welcomed addition. It is the interpretive division of the Palau International Coral Reef Center and has lots to offer. See the many exhibits there including chambered nautilus.

For nightlife, you'll find most of Palau's clubs on the commercial island suburb of Malakal. There are also a number of restaurants located there. During the day, pay a visit to Malakal to see the Micronesian Mariculture Demonstration Center (MMDC), a commercial clam farm raising many species of giant clams. The largest can weigh up to half a ton (almost 500 kg).

Destination Guide

View Full Itinerary

Valid Date Ranges

February 2024
02/28/2024 05/23/2025 $9,995 per person
All prices are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise stated and are subject to availability and change without notice and do not include international or internal airfare. All prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars. Prices listed for each offer may pertain to specific departure dates. Single supplement applies. Other restrictions, blackout dates and holiday surcharges may apply. Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.

Not included: Airfare to and from destination. Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance; Visas when applicable; Alcoholic beverages; Expedition Leader gratuities.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.