Melekeok Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Melekeok.
Healthcare System
Palau has a basic healthcare system with limited facilities. There are no hospitals or major medical facilities in Melekeok itself. The only comprehensive medical facility in Palau is the Belau National Hospital in Koror, approximately 30-40 minutes drive from Melekeok.
Hospitals
Belau National Hospital in Koror is the primary facility. It provides basic emergency care, general medicine, and limited surgical services. For serious conditions, medical evacuation is necessary and can cost $20,000-$50,000 or more.
Pharmacies
Limited pharmacy services available in Koror. Melekeok has no pharmacies. Bring adequate supplies of prescription medications with original packaging and prescriptions. Common over-the-counter medications may be unavailable.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and medical evacuation is absolutely essential. Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation to Guam or Manila, as this is commonly required for serious conditions.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete first aid kit and any prescription medications you need for the entire trip plus extra
- Carry copies of prescriptions and medical records
- Ensure your travel insurance explicitly covers medical evacuation, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars
- For any serious medical condition, expect to be evacuated to Guam, Philippines, or Taiwan
- Dental care is extremely limited; address any dental issues before traveling
- The nearest hyperbaric chamber for diving emergencies is in Koror
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Petty theft and pickpocketing are rare in Melekeok and throughout Palau. The community is small and close-knit, which naturally deters crime. However, opportunistic theft from unattended vehicles or belongings can occasionally occur.
Road conditions in Melekeok can be challenging with narrow roads, limited lighting, and occasional poor maintenance. Stray dogs and animals on roads are common. Some drivers may not follow traffic rules consistently.
Strong currents, sharp coral, jellyfish, and other marine life pose risks when swimming or snorkeling. Some areas have dangerous undertows or rip currents.
Tropical heat and high humidity can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, especially for visitors not acclimated to the climate or engaging in outdoor activities.
Mosquitoes are present and can carry dengue fever, though cases are relatively rare. Zika virus has been reported in Palau in the past.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some informal tour operators may quote inflated prices for services or add unexpected fees. This is more common with unlicensed operators rather than established businesses.
Some rental agencies may charge for pre-existing damage or inflate damage costs. Documentation of vehicle condition may be inadequate.
With no meters, some taxi drivers may quote high prices to tourists unfamiliar with standard rates, especially for trips to/from the airport.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Respect local customs and traditional land ownership - some areas require permission to visit
- Always inform someone of your itinerary, especially for outdoor activities
- Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
- Cell phone coverage can be limited or non-existent in some areas of Melekeok
- ATMs are limited; bring sufficient cash as many places don't accept cards
Water Safety
- Never swim or snorkel alone, even if you're experienced
- Check tide times and current conditions before water activities
- Wear a life jacket when boating, regardless of swimming ability
- Be aware that rescue services are limited and response times can be long
- Tap water is generally safe in Palau but bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs
- Avoid swimming after heavy rains due to runoff and reduced visibility
Transportation Safety
- Rental cars are the primary transportation option; public transport is very limited
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Roads may lack shoulders, lighting, and clear signage
- Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on roads
- Avoid driving at night due to poor lighting and road conditions
- Keep fuel tank at least half full as gas stations are limited
Cultural Respect
- Ask permission before photographing people or private property
- Dress modestly when visiting villages or the capitol complex
- Remove shoes when entering homes or certain buildings
- Don't touch or remove anything from historical or cultural sites
- Be respectful during traditional ceremonies or events
- Learn a few basic Palauan phrases - locals appreciate the effort
Environmental Protection
- Palau has strict environmental laws - familiarize yourself with them
- Reef-safe sunscreen is mandatory; reef-toxic sunscreen is prohibited and subject to confiscation
- Don't touch, stand on, or damage coral
- Take all trash with you; littering carries heavy fines
- Single-use plastics are banned in Palau
- Respect the Palau Pledge - visitors sign an environmental promise upon arrival
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Melekeok and Palau generally are very safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The local culture is respectful, and incidents of harassment or assault against tourists are extremely rare. Women hold significant positions in Palauan society, and the matrilineal culture means women are highly respected. However, standard travel precautions should still be observed.
- Solo female travelers report feeling very safe in Melekeok and throughout Palau
- Dress modestly out of respect for local culture, especially when visiting villages or government buildings
- Avoid isolated areas alone, particularly at night, as a general precaution
- Inform accommodation staff of your daily plans when heading out alone
- Local men are generally respectful; any unwanted attention can usually be deflected politely
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if traveling solo
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- The small community means inappropriate behavior is less likely and more noticeable
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Palau. However, there are no specific anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and same-sex marriage is not recognized.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection, as this applies to all couples in Palauan culture
- LGBTQ+ travelers generally report no significant issues visiting Palau, but the topic is not widely discussed
- The small community size means privacy may be limited
- There is no visible LGBTQ+ scene or community resources in Palau
- Accommodation staff and tour operators are generally professional and welcoming to all guests
- Consider your comfort level with being in a conservative, traditional community
- Focus on the natural beauty and cultural experiences rather than expecting LGBTQ+-specific amenities or nightlife
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for visiting Melekeok and Palau. Medical evacuation alone can cost $20,000-$50,000 or more, and this is a common necessity for serious medical issues given the limited local healthcare facilities. The remote location, limited medical infrastructure, and distance from advanced medical care make comprehensive insurance critical rather than optional.
Travel insurance for adventurous travelers • Coverage in 200+ countries