An informative blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Koror: The Jewel of Palau

Introduction

Koror is the main city and former capital of the Republic of Palau, an archipelago of more than 500 islands in the western Pacific. Although Ngerulmud is now the official capital, Koror remains the economic, cultural and tourist center of the country. With its rich biodiversity, fascinating history and vibrant culture, Koror offers a unique experience for travelers.

Tourist Interest

1. Diving and Snorkeling

The crystal clear waters of Koror are famous for their rich marine life, including a variety of corals, tropical fish, sharks and manta rays. Jellyfish Lake is one of the most popular attractions, where visitors can swim with millions of harmless jellyfish.

2. Rocky Islands National Park

This park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a paradise for nature lovers. With its impressive rock formations, saltwater lakes and dense forests, the park offers countless opportunities for hiking, bird watching and photography.

3. Belau Museum

As the oldest museum in Micronesia, the Belau Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Palau. Exhibits include traditional artifacts, historical photographs and contemporary art works.

4. Koror Night Market

This market is the perfect place to try local cuisine, shop for crafts, and enjoy live music and dance. It is held every Friday night and is a great way to experience the local culture.

Arounds

1. Babeldaob

Palau's largest island, Babeldaob, is a short drive from Koror. Here, visitors can explore ancient stone sites, waterfalls and traditional villages.

2. Peleliu

Peleliu, a small island south of Koror, is known for its role in World War II. Visitors can explore historic war sites, including landing beaches, airstrips and bunkers.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Koror is during the dry season, from December to April. Visitors should remember to respect local culture, which includes dressing conservatively and avoiding touching or taking anything from historic or natural sites.

Koror gastronomic products

• Fresh fish

  Koror, being the most populated city in Palau, offers a wide variety of fresh fish. Local restaurants and markets serve a wide range of fish, from tuna to grouper, caught daily from the surrounding waters. Fish dishes in Koror are known for their freshness and authentic taste.

• Fruit Bat Soup

  Fruit bat soup is a unique Palau specialty that can be found in Koror. Although it may not be to everyone's taste, it is an integral part of the local culinary culture. The bat is cooked in a soup with coconut milk, ginger and other spices, creating a distinctive flavor.

• Taro

  Taro is a staple in the Palauan diet and is used in a variety of dishes in Koror. It can be boiled, roasted, fried or steamed and is used in both sweet and savory dishes. Taro is also used to make a sweet pudding called "poi."

• Seafood

  Given its Pacific location, Koror offers a variety of fresh seafood. Crabs, lobsters and clams can be found in abundance and are served in many different ways, from boiled to grilled. Seafood in Koror is known for its fresh and delicious taste.

Sports Activities in Koror, Palau

Diving

Koror is famous for its impressive diving sites. Tourists can explore Palau's underwater world, including coral reefs, tropical fish and World War II shipwrecks.

Kayaking

Kayaking is another popular activity in Koror. Tourists can paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the island's lagoon, exploring sea caves and mangroves along the way.

Sport Fishing

Palau is a world-class fishing destination. Visitors can rent a boat and spend the day fishing for marlin, tuna and other deep-sea fish species.

Hiking

For those who prefer land-based activities, Koror offers several hiking trails that traverse the rainforest, offering panoramic views of the island and the opportunity to see local wildlife.

Places near Koror

If you're in Koror and want to explore a little further, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and dining experiences:

Peleliu, a historic island in Palau, offers stunning underwater and terrestrial landscapes, ideal for diving and hiking. Its local cuisine, with dishes such as grilled fish and tropical fruits, delights visitors with authentic flavors.

Babeldaob, Palau's largest island, offers a rich mix of culture, history and nature. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, explore ancient archaeological sites, swim in hidden waterfalls, and stroll through lush tropical forests.

Malakal Island, in Palau, is a tropical paradise with rich marine life, ideal for diving. Its gastronomy is a feast of fresh seafood, highlighting coconut crab and tuna, prepared with traditional techniques.