Palau Travel Health Guide for US Travelers
A physician-reviewed health and safety guide for Americans traveling to the Republic of Palau
As of 2026, the U.S. advises Exercise Normal Precautions in Palau. Most health concerns are environmental (heat, sun, water activity injuries) plus mosquito-borne illness prevention.
Republic of Palau
Capital: Ngerulmud | Region: Micronesia / Pacific | Languages: Palauan, English
Before You Travel to Palau
Palau is a remote island destination where medical access can be limited compared with major countries. Plan ahead for medications, diving and marine safety, and emergency transfer contingencies.
Travel Clinic Visit
Review routine vaccines and discuss hepatitis A/B and typhoid based on itinerary and food exposure.
Insurance & Evacuation
Remote geography makes evacuation coverage strongly recommended for serious illness or trauma.
Pack a Medical Kit
Bring full medication supply, oral rehydration salts, sunscreen, reef-safe skin products, and wound care supplies.
Marine Activity Planning
Use licensed operators for diving/snorkeling and follow all safety briefings regarding currents and depth limits.
Water & Food Safety
Practice standard food hygiene precautions; use trusted water sources and maintain hydration in tropical heat.
Documents & STEP
Enroll at step.state.gov and keep emergency contacts accessible offline.
Yellow Fever in Palau
Malaria in Palau
Recommended Vaccines for Palau
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B
Common recommendations for many travelers based on exposure profile.
Typhoid
Discuss depending on food and itinerary specifics.
MMR, Tdap, Polio, Influenza, COVID-19
Ensure routine immunizations are up to date.
Healthcare System in Palau
Local Hospital Services
Core emergency care is available but specialist depth is limited.
Remote Island Constraints
Inter-island transport and weather may affect emergency response timelines.
Payment Considerations
Visitors may need upfront payment for some services.
Keep evacuation insurance and assistance hotline available at all times due to Palau's remote setting.
Emergency Numbers in Palau
US Embassy Koror
Airai, Republic of Palau
Phone: +680 587 2920
pw.usembassy.gov
US State Dept 24/7 Hotline
From US/Canada: +1-888-407-4747
From abroad: +1-202-501-4444
STEP Enrollment
Register your travel at step.state.gov.
Nature & Environmental Risks
Heat & Sun Exposure
High UV and humidity can increase dehydration and heat illness risk.
Marine Activity Hazards
Currents, reef injuries, and diving incidents require strict operator guidance.
Typhoon/Storm Disruption
Weather events may disrupt flights, ferries, and medical transport routes.
Pre-Departure Checklist for Palau
- Review routine vaccines and discuss hepatitis A/B (+ typhoid if advised)
- Arrange insurance with evacuation benefits
- Pack full medication supply and first-aid essentials
- Prepare sun/heat and marine safety equipment
- Save emergency contacts and register in STEP
