Palau

Palau is a small island country in the western Pacific Ocean. It is made up of about 340 islands, but only nine have people living on them. Palau is famous for its crystal clear water and amazing sea life. Divers from around the world come to explore its coral reefs.

Land and People

About 18,000 people live in Palau. The capital is Ngerulmud. The Rock Islands are hundreds of small limestone islands covered in green jungle. The waters around Palau have over 1,500 species of fish and 700 species of coral.

Culture and Fun Facts

Palau has a unique Jellyfish Lake where millions of golden jellyfish swim every day. These jellyfish do not sting, so people can swim with them. Palau was the first country to create a shark sanctuary to protect its sharks. Traditional Palauan culture values family and respect for nature.

Fun Facts

• Palau's Jellyfish Lake has millions of golden jellyfish that do not sting people.
• Palau created the world's first shark sanctuary in 2009.
• The Rock Islands of Palau are a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 300 limestone islands.

Did You Know?

In Palau's Jellyfish Lake, millions of golden jellyfish follow the sun across the lake every day. Over time, these jellyfish lost their ability to sting because they had no predators in the lake.