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Angaur Hills
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The Angaur Hills are the most prominent topographical features on Angaur Island (Ngeaur), the southernmost inhabited island in the Republic of Palau. These hills were formed through the tectonic uplift of ancient coral reefs, pushing fossilized limestone structures high above the sea level. Reaching a maximum elevation of approximately 40 meters, they stand out against the island's otherwise low-lying terrain. The hills hold significant historical weight due to the Battle of Angaur in late 1944, where the rugged caves provided defensive positions during World War II. Before the war, the area was the center of Palau's phosphate mining industry. Operations began under German administration in 1909 and expanded significantly under the Japanese, continuing until the mid-1950s. Today, the landscape is a mix of dense tropical forest and industrial ruins, with abandoned mining equipment and military remnants scattered among the limestone cliffs, making it a site of interest for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Location: Palau
- Top sights: Elechol Ra Nguruhei · Our Lady of the Rosary Church · Elechol Ra Ngmersau
- Nearby: Kloulklubed (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 207 | 194 | 182 | 159 | 264 | 316 | 343 | 269 | 248 | 203 | 215 | 227 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Angaur Hills are natural elevations on Angaur Island, freely accessible. There are no designated trails, so off-path hiking is required.
Typical hours
The hills are accessible at any time, but visiting during daylight is recommended. Navigation is difficult in the dark and there is no lighting.
Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere on the hills. The views of the sea and surrounding vegetation offer great photo subjects.
Time needed
A hike over the hills takes about one to two hours depending on the route. For a thorough exploration with breaks, allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Angaur Lighthouse and the island's beaches. The remains of the phosphate mines are also historically interesting.
Getting there
Angaur is a small island reachable by boat from Koror. On the island, you can get to the hills on foot or by rental bicycle.
Insider tip
Bring insect repellent as mosquitoes are present in the vegetation. Wear sturdy footwear and long clothing for protection against undergrowth.
Geography
Facts
- Main resource: phosphate (mined until 1955)
- Wildlife: habitat for crab-eating macaques
- History: Battle of Angaur (September 1944)
- Elevation: approx. 40 to 60 meters
- Infrastructure: numerous abandoned mine shafts
- Geology: coral limestone formation
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Angaur Hills (4)
Elechol Ra Uchul A Kerekar
Beach area in the north of Angaur island, Palau.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How to get to Angaur?
There are regular boat connections or domestic flights.
Is there tourism infrastructure?
The island is very remote; there are only simple accommodations.
What is the best activity?
Explore the island on foot or by bicycle.
Should I bring food?
Yes, shopping opportunities are barely available on the island.
How is the trail condition?
Many paths are natural and can be heavily overgrown.
Angaur Hills: where is it located?
Angaur Hills is located in Palau.
Angaur Hills: what is there to see?
Highlights include Elechol Ra Nguruhei, Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Elechol Ra Ngmersau.
Angaur Hills: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Angaur Hills: why is it worth visiting?
The Angaur Hills are the most prominent topographical features on Angaur Island (Ngeaur), the southernmost inhabited island in the Republic of Palau.
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Koror
Koror is the most populous city in Palau and served as the national capital until 2006.
Koror Business District
This district forms the economic heart of Palau.
Airai
Airai is the second most populous settlement in Palau.
Meyuns
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Kloulklubed
Kloulklubed is the main village on Peleliu Island.
Ulimang
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Mengellang
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Ngerulmud Administrative Center
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Ngerulmud
Ngerulmud has been the capital of Palau since 2006.
Ngchesar
Ngchesar is a quiet settlement on the east coast of Babeldaob.
Melekeok
Melekeok is a village on the east coast of Babeldaob.
Aimeliik
Aimeliik is a settlement in southwestern Babeldaob.
Ngiwal
Ngiwal is a village in eastern Babeldaob.
Ngardmau
Ngardmau is a settlement on the west coast of Babeldaob.
Angaur
Angaur is the main settlement on the island of the same name in southern Palau.
History & landmarks
German Channel
This artificial channel was created during the German colonial period to allow the transport of phosphate from the southern lagoons.
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Ngerukewid Cliffs
These steep limestone walls rise vertically from the turquoise water.
Rock Islands (Chelbacheb)
The Rock Islands are an archipelago of limestone formations in the ocean.
Nature
Bloody Nose Ridge
This rugged limestone ridge on Peleliu was a strategic point during World War II.
Blue Corner
One of the world's most famous diving sites with immense fish density.
Ngerumekaol Spawning Channel
A critical habitat for groupers during their spawning season.
Carp Island Reserve
A crescent-shaped island with rich coral gardens and mangroves.
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands)
A strictly protected wildlife preserve within the Rock Islands.
Jellyfish Lake
An isolated marine lake on Eil Malk island.
More places
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Angaur Island
Angaur is the southernmost of Palau's main inhabited islands.
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Angaur Forest Reserve
The island of Angaur possesses dense forests that are home to macaques originally introduced by the Germans.
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Angaur Lighthouse
This historic lighthouse is located on Angaur island and dates back to the phosphate mining era.
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Angaur Battlefield
In September 1944, this island was the scene of fierce fighting between the US 81st Infantry Division and Japanese defenders.
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Angaur Harbor
This harbor is the sole supply artery for Palau's southernmost inhabited island.
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Peleliu Peace Memorial
This memorial was erected by Japan to commemorate the dead of the Battle of Peleliu and to promote peace.
Peleliu WWII Memorial
The memorial honors the fierce battles between the USA and Japan in 1944.
German Lighthouse
The German lighthouse on Peleliu was built during the German colonial period in the early 20th century.