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Ngerukewid Cliffs
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The Ngerukewid Cliffs are a defining feature of Palau’s Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, situated within the strictly protected Seventy Islands Reserve. These towering limestone walls rise vertically from shallow turquoise waters, showcasing dramatic karst formations created by millions of years of erosion and tidal action. The area is historically significant as Palau's oldest nature reserve, established in 1956, and is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Access to the islands and their cliffs is strictly prohibited to safeguard the nesting grounds of rare seabirds and to protect endemic plant species that thrive in this isolated environment. Observations from the air or by boat reveal the classic 'mushroom' shape of the island bases, where the limestone has been undercut at the waterline. This uninhabited archipelago serves as a vital genetic reservoir for regional biodiversity, representing one of the most pristine and visually spectacular examples of uplifted coral reef topography in the Pacific.
- Location: Palau
- Top sights: Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve · Ngerukewid Strict No Entry Zone
- Nearby: Kloulklubed (11 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 | 216 | 198 | 184 | 177 | 285 | 338 | 381 | 286 | 275 | 232 | 236 | 257 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The cliffs are part of the Seventy Islands Reserve, accessed by boat - no direct foot access is possible. The cliffs themselves can only be viewed from the water.
Typical hours
The reserve has no fixed opening hours, but boat tours are typically offered during daylight. Booking ahead is advisable, especially in peak season.
Photography
Photography is great from the boat - the steep limestone walls and turquoise water make impressive subjects. A polarizing filter reduces reflections and enhances colors.
Time needed
A boat tour to the cliffs typically takes 1-2 hours including travel and cruise. Allow half a day if you want to explore other islands in the reserve.
Combine with
Combine the cliffs with a snorkeling tour to nearby reefs or a visit to the Rock Islands. A stop at Secret Beach is also possible.
Getting there
The cliffs are only reachable by boat - tours depart from Koror or other islands. Many operators offer half-day or full-day trips that also cover the Seventy Islands.
Insider tip
Book an early morning tour to avoid crowds and enjoy calm water. Bring plenty of sunscreen and water as there is no shade on board.
Geography
Facts
- Status: Strict Nature Reserve (Seventy Islands)
- Restriction: landing on the islands is strictly forbidden
- Number of islands: approx. 70 small limestone formations
- Established: Palau's first national park (1956)
- Ecology: nesting site for the Wedge-tailed Shearwater
- Visibility: mostly viewed only from the air
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 Ngerukewid Cliffs (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are the Ngerukewid Cliffs accessible to tourists?
The islands are a strict nature reserve and mostly only visible from the boat.
Is snorkeling allowed there?
Only in designated zones, so as not to damage the reef.
How do I best see the cliffs?
With a guided boat tour that circles the islands.
Are there toilets there?
No, it is a completely untouched area.
What equipment should I take?
Camera, sun protection, and good sunglasses.
Ngerukewid Cliffs: where is it located?
Ngerukewid Cliffs is located in Palau.
Ngerukewid Cliffs: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve, Ngerukewid Strict No Entry Zone.
Ngerukewid Cliffs: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Ngerukewid Cliffs: why is it worth visiting?
The Ngerukewid Cliffs are a defining feature of Palau’s Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, situated within the strictly protected Seventy Islands Reserve.
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Airai
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Ngerulmud has been the capital of Palau since 2006.
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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.
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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
Nature
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands)
A strictly protected wildlife preserve within the Rock Islands.
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.
Blue Corner
One of the world's most famous diving sites with immense fish density.
Ulong Island
Famous for its ancient rock paintings and rich flora.
Jellyfish Lake
An isolated marine lake on Eil Malk island.
Bloody Nose Ridge
This rugged limestone ridge on Peleliu was a strategic point during World War II.
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More places
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This UNESCO heritage site comprises hundreds of limestone islands.
Rock Islands
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Peleliu South Harbor is the island's logistical hub.
Eil Malk Island
Eil Malk is the largest island in the Mecherchar group of the Rock Islands.
Peleliu Island
Peleliu is a low-lying coral island in the southern Palau archipelago.
Orange Beach
On this section of beach on Peleliu, the first US Marines landed on September 15, 1944, under heavy Japanese fire.
German Lighthouse
The German lighthouse on Peleliu was built during the German colonial period in the early 20th century.
Peleliu Battlefield
This historic area preserves remains of the intense 1944 combat, including Japanese bunkers and American tanks.