Travel Vaccines and Advice for Palau
Made up of over 300 islands, Palau is a country located in the western Pacific. It is covered in tropical rain forests and is home to dozens of waterfalls and natural sites.
Palau is best known for its many breathtaking scuba diving sites. But, is well known for its historical sites as well. Not only are there ruins of societies over 3,000 years old, but old tanks and other remnants of World War II are scattered across the islands. These many draws are what make Palau such a popular destination to visit.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Palau?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Palau
Do I Need a Visa for Palau?
What Is the Climate Like in Palau?
How Safe Is Palau?
Visiting Rock Islands
What Should I Pack for Palau?
U.S. Embassy in Palau
Do I Need Vaccines for Palau?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Palau. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Palau: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Palau |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Palau |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Palau
Prevent Bug Bites in Palau
Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the CDC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Palau
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to CDC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Infections To Be Aware of in Palau
- Dengue – Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, significantly impacts global health, affecting up to 400 million people yearly. Without specific antiviral treatments, prevention through avoiding mosquito bites is key. Repellents and nettings are recommended.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, can lead to severe health issues and is primarily spread through mosquito bites. To prevent Zika, individuals should use mosquito repellent and wear protective clothing while traveling, and pregnant women should avoid affected areas and practice safe sex.
Do I Need a Visa for Palau?
No, there is no visa required for travelers visiting Palau for less than one year. All you will need is a passport with six month’s validity at the time of entry and one blank page for the entry stamp.
Palau Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Palau? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Palau and U.S. State Department
Palau also has exit fees, which currently total $50 and must be paid upon your departure. Be sure to ask your airline if the fees are included in the ticket price.
What Is the Climate Like in Palau?
Palau’s most popular tourist destinations are on Koror Island. The weather in Koror is hot and humid all year round due to its tropical rainforest climate. There are two seasons in Palau: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to November, while the dry season is from December to April.
During the rainy season, there are heavy rains, strong winds, and occasional thunderstorms. During the dry season, the weather is sunny and warm with occasional showers. The temperature during the dry season is usually around 90 degrees during the day and around 75 at night.
It’s important to note that weather can be unpredictable and it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before traveling to Palau.
How Safe Is Palau?
Palau is a pretty safe place for travelers, but there are still things you can do to stay safe while you’re there. Here are some tips:
- Pay attention to what’s going on around you, especially if you’re walking or taking public transportation.
- Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, so you don’t accidentally upset anyone.
- Be careful when you’re swimming or diving, especially at night.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing.
- Be aware that there are some people who might try to trick you or take advantage of you. Be cautious when exchanging money or buying souvenirs.
- Make sure you follow the laws of Palau, especially when it comes to drugs, firearms, and other illegal things.
Visiting Rock Islands
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One of Palau’s top spots to visit is the Rock Islands. This is a collection of over 300 small islands created from volcanic activity. They lie between the major islands of Koror and Peleliu, and they are one of the most-visited areas in Palau.
The Rock Islands is one of the few areas declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for natural and cultural reasons. Not only are the islands filled with wildlife, but there are also stone ruins of ancient civilizations.
The islands are also home to the famous Jellyfish Lake. Here jellyfish have evolved to have no sting and tourists can swim alongside them. Dolphin Bay is also located among the islands. This resort educates tourists about dolphins with the bay’s resident pod of spinner dolphins.
What Should I Pack for Palau?
Bringing the right supplies is essential for the perfect trip.
- Light Clothing – The temperature in Palau is almost always hot. Lightweight clothes are a must. Some light layers can be helpful for the nighttime or chilly temperatures.
- Rain Gear – Rain is always a risk in Palau. Bring a good waterproof jacket, at the very least, and an umbrella.
- Bug Spray – Mosquitoes are prevalent in Palau, and can carry some unwanted viruses. Bring plenty of mosquito repellent with at least 20% DEET to ward off bugs.
- Swimsuit – Palau has amazing snorkeling and diving opportunities. Be sure to bring a bathing suit and don’t forget your scuba certification if you’re planning on diving.
U.S. Embassy in Palau
US embassies provide services to American citizens who are traveling abroad. The services include giving information on the laws and safety concerns of the country and helping with emergencies and lost passports. If an American citizen is a victim of a crime or needs medical assistance, they can also go to the embassy for help.
The U.S. Embassy in Palau is located in Koror, which is the largest city in Palau as well as the former capital.
U.S. Embassy Koror
In Airai State, in an area known as Omsangel (no street address)
P.O. Box 6028, Koror, Palau 96940
Telephone: +680-587-2920/2990
Emergency after-hours telephone: +680-775-6150
Fax: +680-587-2911
It’s important to know that embassy services can vary from country to country and depending on the situation. It’s always a good idea to check with the embassy directly to find out what services they offer.
Before your trip, sign up with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This will notify local embassies of your trip and to stay up-to-date on travel notices for Palau.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Palau
Overall rating: 5 stars – 2 reviews
★★★★★
“One stop shop“
“Passport health was the only place I had to visit to medically prepare for my journey to Palau. I was able to get vaccines, information about how to keep safe while there, and what to do to stay healthy even upon returning to the US. Plus, the staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and personable.”
Submitted by: Seth
★★★★★
“Prepared for Trip“
“My visit with the passport health nurse was very informative. I feel much more confidant about my trip to Palau. I also appreciate the binder with the information I can access when on my trip as questions and concerns come up!”
Submitted by: Karen
“Passport health was the only place I had to visit to medically prepare for my journey to Palau. I was able to get vaccines, information about how to keep safe while there, and what to do to stay healthy even upon returning to the US. Plus, the staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and personable.”
“My visit with the passport health nurse was very informative. I feel much more confidant about my trip to Palau. I also appreciate the binder with the information I can access when on my trip as questions and concerns come up!”
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