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Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands)
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The Ngerukewid Islands, famously known as the '70 Islands', are the most iconic and highly protected portion of Palau's Rock Islands Southern Lagoon. Established as a wildlife preserve in 1956, this cluster of limestone islets is a sanctuary for biodiversity, where human interference is kept to an absolute minimum. Landing on the islands or anchoring in the surrounding turquoise waters is strictly prohibited by law to ensure the ecosystem remains pristine. From the air, Ngerukewid presents a panoramic vista of emerald-green, mushroom-shaped islands scattered across the Pacific blue. The preserve is a crucial nesting ground for the rare Palau Megapode and provides a safe haven for endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. It stands as a powerful testament to Palau’s commitment to environmental stewardship, prioritizing the survival of endemic species over tourism. For most, the beauty of these islands is experienced only through aerial tours or from a respectful distance during boat excursions.
- 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
Best season
The best time for a boat tour through the 70 Islands is the dry season from November to April, when waters are calm. During the wet season, stronger winds and rain may reduce visibility.
Best time of day
Early morning provides light sea breezes and the most active birds. Late afternoon often provides sightings of turtles surfacing.
Etiquette
Landing on the islands is strictly prohibited to protect wildlife. Keep at least 50 meters distance from nesting birds and seals.
What to bring
Binoculars with image stabilization are helpful for birdwatching from a boat. Sun protection and a waterproof bag for gear are essential.
Getting there
The islands are accessible only by boat from Koror or other islands. Many operators offer guided tours that respect the protected zone.
What to expect
Wildlife on the uninhabited islands is shy; quiet approach by boat is crucial. Allow several hours to spot a variety of species.
Geography
Facts
- Established as a wildlife preserve in 1956.
- Landing on the islands is strictly forbidden by law.
- The most iconic aerial image used in Palau's tourism.
- Home to rare endemic Palauan ground turtles.
- Crucial sanctuary for the endangered Palau Megapode.
- A core component of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
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 Islands (70 Islands) (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you land on the Ngerukewid Islands?
No, the area is strictly protected and closed to the public to preserve the wildlife.
How can I best see the 70 Islands?
The best views are from guided boat tours or scenic flights, as landing is prohibited.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season from December to April provides the calmest waters for excursions.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, a valid permit is required for the entire Rock Islands Southern Lagoon area.
Is the water suitable for snorkeling?
Although landing is prohibited, the surrounding reefs offer excellent snorkeling spots.
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands): where is it located?
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands) is located in Palau.
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands): what is there to see?
Highlights include Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve, Ngerukewid Strict No Entry Zone.
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands): why is it worth visiting?
The Ngerukewid Islands, famously known as the '70 Islands', are the most iconic and highly protected portion of Palau's Rock Islands Southern Lagoon.
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Nearby cities
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
Meyuns is a significant village located on Ngerekebesang Island.
Kloulklubed
Kloulklubed is the main village on Peleliu Island.
Ulimang
Ulimang is the administrative center of Ngaraard State on Babeldaob.
Mengellang
Mengellang is the main village of Ngarchelong State at the northern tip of Babeldaob.
Ngerulmud Administrative Center
As the seat of government, Ngerulmud is the center for public spending and national administration.
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
🗺️
Ngerukewid Cliffs
These steep limestone walls rise vertically from the turquoise water.
German Channel
This artificial channel was created during the German colonial period to allow the transport of phosphate from the southern lagoons.
Rock Islands (Chelbacheb)
The Rock Islands are an archipelago of limestone formations in the ocean.
Nature
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.
Ulong Island
Famous for its ancient rock paintings and rich flora.
Blue Corner
One of the world's most famous diving sites with immense fish density.
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.
Malakal Peak
This hill on Malakal Island overlooks the most important harbor in Palau.
More places
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon
This UNESCO heritage site comprises hundreds of limestone islands.
Rock Islands
The Rock Islands are a collection of over 200 limestone islands in Palau.
Eil Malk Island
Eil Malk is the largest island in the Mecherchar group of the Rock Islands.
Peleliu South Harbor
Peleliu South Harbor is the island's logistical hub.
Peleliu Island
Peleliu is a low-lying coral island in the southern Palau archipelago.
Ngeruktabel Stone Fort
On the uninhabited island of Ngeruktabel are remains of stone defensive works built before European contact.
Orange Beach
On this section of beach on Peleliu, the first US Marines landed on September 15, 1944, under heavy Japanese fire.
Peleliu Battlefield
This historic area preserves remains of the intense 1944 combat, including Japanese bunkers and American tanks.