Excursion Babeldaob island discovery tour at Koror

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Experience the splendid beauty and sights of Babeldaob, Palau's 'big island' and the second-largest island in all of Micronesia after Guam.


Babeldaob Island

Babeldaob Island, with an area of 331 square kilometers makes up over 70% of the area of the entire country and is home to about 6,000 people (30% of the population). It boasts the largest undisturbed forest and the largest freshwater lake in Micronesia, and its northern tip features a row of large basalt monoliths known as Badrulchau, the origin and meaning of which is not fully known or completely understood but it is thought construction began around AD 100 and was abandoned around 1600.


Japan Palau Friendship Bridge

Board an air-conditioned bus at the pier and begin approximately 90-minute drive to Monoliths Park. The bus slows as you pass the Japan Palau Friendship Bridge. This bridge replaced the former K-B Bridge (Koror-Babeldaob Bridge) which collapsed on September 16, 1996. The collapse severed water and power to the island of Koror. Until the new bridge was constructed the only connection to the capital and the airport on Babeldaob was via ferry service across the channel.


Mount Ngerchelchuus

Head towards Mt. Ngerchelchuus, Palau's highest point, for a brief photo stop. Pass taro patches, Ngatpang state trees, the mangroves of the swamp, and the upland forest before proceeding to two lookout points, over the East Reef and Ngaraard State, before arriving at Monoliths Park, Badrulchau.


Airai Bai

Afterwards, re-board your coach for the return drive back to the pier. Along the way, a stop will be made at at Airai Bai, a Men's Traditional Meeting House and oldest Bai in Palau dating back 200 years.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Koror, Babeldaob Island, Japan Palau Friendship Bridge, Mount Ngerchelchuus, Traditional Men's Meeting-House

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking; guests have to get on and off the bus frequently and most sites involve a minimal walking from the bus to take pictures and or see the sights. This tour involves a lot of driving which is mostly over paved highway; however there are some areas that involve driving on dirt roads for short periods. Please note that the buses used are smaller than traditional coaches and are air-conditioned. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, comfortable closed-toe shoes and a hat are recommended. Guests are also advised to bring sun protection, bottled water and camera from the ship. Order of sites may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.