Palau

The coral reefs of Palau are home to more than 1500 species of fish and 700 species of corals and sea anemones. Plunging walls, coral gardens and World War II wrecks are all part of the range of diving available. The local marine life is abundant and varies from schools of triggerfish, snappers, butterfly fish, spadefish and barracudas to grouper, Napoleon wrasse and a variety of reef sharks. Manta and eagle rays, cuttlefish, hawksbill and green turtles are also frequently sighted.

Understanding The Geography

Palau, officially the Republic of Palau, is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean, some 500 miles (800 km) east of the Philippines. Having emerged from United Nations trusteeship (administered by the United States) in 1994, it is one of the world's youngest and smallest nations. It is sometimes referred to in English under its native name Belau.

Palau's most important islands are Angaur, Babeldaob, Koror, and Peleliu. The latter three lie together within the same barrier reef. While Angaur is an Oceanic Island several miles to the South. About two-thirds of the population lives on Koror. North of these islands, the coral atoll of Kayangel is situated, while the uninhabited Rock Islands (about 70 of them) are situated to the west of the main island group. A remote group of six islands, known as the Southwest Islands, some 375 miles (600 km) from the main islands, are also part of the country.

Climate Conditions

Palau enjoys a tropical climate all year round with an annual mean temperature of 82 °F (27 °C).

Rainfall can occur throughout the year, averaging a total of 150 inches (3,800 mm). The average humidity over the course of the year is 82%, and although rain falls more frequently between July and October, there is still much sunshine.

Typhoons are rare, as Palau is outside the main typhoon zone.

Palau is located along the southern branch of the North Pacific equatorial Current, which arises from Mexico and crosses the Pacific along the equator.

Water temperature averages between 80° to 86° F throughout the year. Rich nutrients, salts and calcium that contribute to coral growth come from cold up welling waters from the deep ocean.