Things To Do
in Ngerulmud
Ngerulmud sits on the southwestern edge of Babeldaob, Palau's largest island, offering a quiet capital atmosphere with ocean views and sweeping jungle backdrop. Built as Palau's administrative center, the town showcases broad avenues and modern government buildings set against pristine Pacific scenery. While small and low-key, it serves as a gateway to Babeldaob's natural and cultural treasures, from waterfalls and river trails to traditional villages.
Visitors typically use Ngerulmud as a base to explore the surrounding coast and inland trails, then skirt to Koror for more nightlife and dining options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Ngerulmud with a guided tour of the state capital, where you can observe the unique architecture and learn about the local governance of Palau. Spend time at the Palau National Congress building, an iconic structure that symbolizes the country's independence. Don’t forget to take pictures of the beautifully landscaped surroundings.
After lunch at a local café, visit the nearby Rock Islands for some snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings, perfect for relaxation and exploration. This is a great opportunity to connect with nature and take in the stunning scenery.
As the sun sets, unwind at a local restaurant featuring traditional Palauan dishes and fresh seafood. Enjoy the serene ambiance while savoring the flavors of the island. After dinner, consider taking an evening stroll along the waterfront to experience the peaceful night atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in Palauan culture by visiting the Etpison Museum, where you can learn about the history, traditions, and artifacts of the islands. Engage with local exhibits that showcase the rich heritage of the Palauan people. Spend some time in reflection at the museum's beautiful garden.
In the afternoon, participate in a traditional weaving workshop where you can create your own piece of art using local materials. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with artisans and learn about the significance of weaving in Palauan culture. Share stories and laughter with fellow participants as you craft your creations.
Wrap up your day with a cultural performance featuring traditional dance and music. Sit back and enjoy the vibrant rhythms as talented local performers showcase their heritage. After the show, mingle with the performers and indulge in some local street food available nearby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range cafe | $15-25 |
| 🏨1-night hotel/guesthouse | $70-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 💊Basic healthcare visit | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters
- Calm, uncrowded destinations with authentic local culture
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Ngerulmud itself
- Smaller infrastructure for frequent public transport and large-scale tourism
- "Alii" - Hello
- "Ngemems" - Thank you
- "Silak" - Please
- "Chad a diak" - Excuse me
- "Sen e ledek?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ngerulmud
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic government buildings set along broad avenues with ocean views and dramatic sunrises/sunsets. Clean lines and reflective surfaces provide excellent architectural photography opportunities, especially around dawn and dusk.
Jurassic-like coastline with turquoise water, mangrove inlets, and distant rock formations; a great spot for wide-angle ocean shots and dramatic sky tones.
Forest-fringed waterfall with misty spray and lush green surroundings; ideal for long-exposure shots and nature photography.
Photo opportunities near the bridge crossing with night lights and evening traffic patterns offering moody compositions.
Colorful outrigger canoes and fishing boats tied along the shore provide authentic seaside imagery during golden hour.
Food in Ngerulmud
Ngerulmud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught reef fish simmered or grilled with coconut milk, lime, and local herbs; a perennial favorite at small eateries and family tables.
Must-Try!
Hearty stew featuring taro, coconut milk, and seasonal vegetables; warming and satisfying in the tropical heat.
Sweet, locally sourced fruit desserts wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, often featuring tropical fruits like plantains and mango.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where locals sell fresh seafood, coconuts, taro, yams, and tropical fruits; great for sampling snacks and meeting farmers.
Smaller market on Babeldaob where you can pick up seasonal produce, island crafts, and quick bites from street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings (often with a nod or short phrase) are important. Show respect to elders and community leaders; avoid loud behavior in villages and ceremonies.
Dress modestly in village areas; ask permission before photographing people, especially in small communities. Remove shoes when entering someone’s home if invited.
Safety
Tipping in Ngerulmud
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% for good service at restaurants is common, with smaller tips for informal cafes or street stalls.
US dollars are widely accepted; cash is handy in remote areas. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and tourist-focused establishments, but many small places prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry-season conditions bring plenty of sunshine and warm temps; expect fewer rain showers and calm seas ideal for snorkeling and coastal hikes. Pack light clothing, sun protection, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Transitional period with occasional showers and humidity; comfortable for outdoor exploration in early mornings and late afternoons; bring a light rain shell and sturdy sandals.
Wet-season weather can bring heavier rains and humidity; sea conditions can be rough in some bays. Stay flexible with outdoor plans and have indoor alternatives or shorter hikes when rain is heavy.
Ngerulmud at Night
Hiking in Ngerulmud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular forest hike culminating at Palau's largest waterfall; involves a moderate ascent and river crossings in parts.
Seasonal jungle trails offering viewpoints, birdwatching, and the chance to encounter traditional village landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Ngerulmud by plane.
Main international gateway located near Koror; serves flights to Manila, Tokyo, Seoul, and domestic connections. From Ngerulmud, travel by car across Babeldaob to Koror for international departures.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Palauan communities make up the majority, with strong cultural traditions and clan structures.
Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, and American residents contribute to a diverse, small-town economy and service sector.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class underwater visibility and vibrant reefs make water activities a regional staple.
Popular local sports with community leagues and school programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ngerulmud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Palauan dishes center on seafood, meat, and coconut; look for vegetable stews, taro-based plates, and fruit bowls. Communicate clearly with hosts or cafe staff about avoiding fish stock or meat broths; many places can accommodate with plant-based options when requested.