Palau, officially known as the Republic of Palau, is an archipelago nation located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is located in the western part of the Micronesia region, and it lies southeast of the Philippines. Palau is composed of several hundred islands, with the most populous ones being Koror, Babeldaob, and Peleliu. The capital city, Ngerulmud, is located on the island of Babeldaob.
Geography
Climate
Palau enjoys a tropical climate with high humidity throughout the year. The temperature remains fairly consistent, typically ranging between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 89.6°F). The region experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season from June to December and a dry season from January to April. The wet season brings heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons, while the dry season offers calmer weather.
Fauna
Palau boasts rich biodiversity both on land and in its surrounding waters. Its coral reefs are home to a vast array of marine life, including colorful fish, sharks, and turtles. On land, the islands are inhabited by diverse species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. The Palauan mangrove forests provide important habitats for various species of birds, fish, and crustaceans.
Longest Rivers
Palau is not known for its rivers, as the islands are relatively small and do not have large river systems. The topography of the islands is characterized by rugged terrain and limestone karsts, rather than extensive river networks.
Highest Mountains
Mount Ngerchelchuus, also known as Mount Ngerchelchel, is the highest point in Palau, reaching an elevation of approximately 242 meters (794 feet) above sea level. Despite its modest height, Mount Ngerchelchuus offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean.
History
Prehistory
Palau has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the islands were inhabited as early as 1000 BC by Austronesian peoples who migrated from Southeast Asia. These early settlers developed sophisticated maritime cultures and established complex societies based on fishing, agriculture, and trade.
Colonial Period
In the 16th century, European explorers began to arrive in Palau, including Spanish and British navigators. The islands were later colonized by Spain in the 19th century, and they were ceded to Germany in 1899 following the Spanish-American War. Japan occupied Palau during World War I, and it became a part of the Japanese South Seas Mandate under the League of Nations after the war.
Modern Age
After World War II, Palau came under the administration of the United States as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. In 1979, Palauans rejected a proposed Compact of Free Association with the United States, opting for independence instead. Palau finally gained full sovereignty in 1994 when it became a sovereign state in free association with the United States.
Demographics
Population
As of the latest available data, the population of Palau is estimated to be around 18,000 people. The population is predominantly of Palauan descent, with small minorities of other Pacific Islander groups, Asians, and expatriates from various countries.
Ethnicity and Language
The indigenous Palauans comprise the majority of the population and speak Palauan, which is the official language of the country. English and other Micronesian languages are also widely spoken due to historical ties with the United States and neighboring Micronesian nations.
Religion
The predominant religion in Palau is Christianity, with the majority of the population adhering to Roman Catholicism and various Protestant denominations. Traditional Palauan beliefs and customs also continue to influence cultural practices among the population.
- Administrative Divisions and Population
Palau is divided into 16 states, each with its own local government. The population of each state varies, with Koror being the most populous state and the location of the country’s commercial and administrative center. The following is a list of Palau’s administrative divisions along with their populations:
- Koror – Population: 14,000
- Melekeok – Population: 400
- Ngaraard – Population: 250
- Ngarchelong – Population: 200
- Ngardmau – Population: 250
- Ngatpang – Population: 200
- Ngchesar – Population: 300
- Airai – Population: 2,000
- Aimeliik – Population: 300
- Angaur – Population: 130
- Hatohobei – Population: 30
- Kayangel – Population: 90
- Ngeremlengui – Population: 250
- Ngiwal – Population: 250
- Peleliu – Population: 600
- Sonsorol – Population: 30
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Koror
- Airai
- Meyungs
- Kloulklubed
- Ngermechau
- Ollei
- Imeong
- Ngetkib
- Ngaremlengui
- Aimeliik
Education Systems
Palau has a free education system that is based on the American model. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. The country has several public and private schools offering primary and secondary education.
While Palau does not have any universities of its own, many Palauan students pursue higher education abroad, particularly in the United States and other countries in the region. Some of the top universities in nearby countries include the University of the South Pacific (Fiji), University of Guam (Guam), and University of Hawaii (USA).
Transportation
Airports
Palau International Airport, located in Airai, is the main gateway to the country and handles both domestic and international flights. Other smaller airports serve various islands within Palau, including Babeldaob and Peleliu.
Railways
Palau does not have any railways.
Highways
Palau has a road network primarily on the island of Koror and Babeldaob. The total length of highways in Palau is approximately 61 kilometers (38 miles), with the majority of roads being paved.
Ports
Palau has several ports that serve as important hubs for both domestic and international maritime transportation. The major ports include:
- Koror Port
- Malakal Port
- Imeong Port
- Peleliu Port
- Angaur Port
Country Facts
- Population: 18,000
- Capital: Ngerulmud
- Official Language: Palauan, English
- Religion: Christianity (Roman Catholicism, Protestantism)
- Race: Palauan (majority), other Pacific Islanders, Asians
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- ISO Country Code: PW
- International Calling Code: +680
- Top-Level Domain: .pw