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Ulong Island
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Ulong Island is one of the most significant and beautiful islands within Palau's Rock Islands Southern Lagoon. It is world-renowned for its prehistoric rock paintings, located high on limestone cliffs, which depict animals and geometric shapes created by early inhabitants over 2,000 years ago. Archaeological sites on the island have yielded ancient pottery and settlement remains, providing deep insights into Palau's early history. Beyond its historical value, Ulong is a premier destination for marine enthusiasts. The "Ulong Channel" is a legendary drift dive site, where divers can see grey reef sharks, stingrays, and massive schools of fish amidst bustling coral gardens. The island's beaches serve as vital nesting grounds for green and hawksbill turtles, as well as various tropical bird species. Visitors often enjoy kayaking through the calm turquoise waters surrounding the island or relaxing on its pristine white sands. Ulong perfectly encapsulates the dual appeal of Palau, offering both a journey back in time through its ancient art and a lively display of the Pacific's incredible underwater life.
- Location: Palau
- Nearby: Meyuns (18 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 | 197 | 183 | 177 | 279 | 331 | 375 | 303 | 284 | 236 | 239 | 246 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The dry season from November to April is well-suited for visiting the rock paintings and birdwatching. In the wet season, trails are slippery but the vegetation is lush and provides shade.
Best time of day
Early morning finds the island calm, excellent for listening to bird calls. Late afternoon has more comfortable temperatures for forest walks.
Etiquette
Do not touch the rock paintings as they are very fragile. Keep distance from nesting birds and turtles and avoid disturbing them.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear is needed for uneven forest trails. Binoculars help spot birds in the canopy, and a flashlight can be useful for cave exploration.
Getting there
Ulong Island is accessible by boat from Koror in about 30 minutes. Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day trips to the island.
What to expect
Birds and turtles are not always immediately visible; sit in a shady spot and wait. Discovering the rock paintings requires a careful look among the vegetation.
Geography
Facts
- The rock paintings on the cliffs are over 2,000 years old
- Captain Henry Wilson was stranded here in 1783 with the HMS Antelope
- The island is part of the Rock Islands archipelago
- The Ulong Channel is famous for its large shark populations
- Archaeological finds confirm early human settlement on the island
- Ulong features one of the few sandy beaches in the limestone area
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 Ulong Island (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Ulong Island famous?
It is famous for its prehistoric rock paintings and as an excellent diving spot.
Is camping allowed on Ulong Island?
Camping is possible in designated areas with a special permit.
How long is the boat ride from Koror?
The ride takes about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on weather conditions.
Are there restrooms on the island?
There are basic, limited facilities for visitors spending the day there.
Is Ulong suitable for children?
Yes, the beaches are shallow and safe, handy for family trips.
Ulong Island: where is it located?
Ulong Island is located in Palau.
Ulong Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Ulong Island: why is it worth visiting?
Ulong Island is one of the most significant and beautiful islands within Palau's Rock Islands Southern Lagoon.
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History & landmarks
Rock Islands (Chelbacheb)
The Rock Islands are an archipelago of limestone formations in the ocean.
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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.
Palau National Stadium
The Palau National Stadium in Koror is the main venue for sporting events and national celebrations in the country.
Nature
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands)
A strictly protected wildlife preserve within the Rock Islands.
Jellyfish Lake
An isolated marine lake on Eil Malk island.
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.
Malakal Peak
This hill on Malakal Island overlooks the most important harbor in Palau.
Ngerekebesang Hill
Ngerekebesang Hill is the highest elevation on Ngerekebesang Island.
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.
Ngeruktabel Stone Fort
On the uninhabited island of Ngeruktabel are remains of stone defensive works built before European contact.
Eil Malk Island
Eil Malk is the largest island in the Mecherchar group of the Rock Islands.
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Ngeruktabel Island
Ngeruktabel is the second largest island in the Koror group of Palau.
Malakal Port
Malakal Port is the primary international maritime gateway for Palau.
Chelechol ra Orrak
This limestone cave on an island near Koror served as one of the earliest burial sites in the archipelago about 3,000 years ago.
Peleliu South Harbor
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