Ngardmau Waterfall

Taki Falls

The largest waterfall in Micronesia, 37 m wide and 30 m high. A 30-minute walk through rainforest along a former Japanese colonial-era mining railway leads to the falls, where you can take a “natural spa” under the cascade.

Taki Falls, also known as Ngardmau Waterfall, lies in the northwest of Ngardmau State on Babeldaob, Palau's main island. It is the largest waterfall in Micronesia, about 37 m wide and 30 m high. Water flows from Mount Ngerchelchuus (242 m), Palau's highest peak, forming a broad curtain of water in the rainforest. To get there, walk down a trail from the parking lot for about 30 minutes. The return climb takes about 40 minutes. Along the way you pass narrow-gauge rails from the bauxite mining of the 1930s under Japanese rule, wade across several streams, and walk through tropical rainforest. The path is slippery but has ropes and steps. If you prefer not to walk, a site monorail cart (about USD 10 round trip) takes you partway. At the falls, you can swim in the pool below, and standing under the water curtain to let the cascade pound your shoulders and back is a “natural massage” recommended by locals. The entrance has a rest pavilion in the style of a traditional Palauan bai, a small shop, a fee of about USD 10 per person, restrooms, and changing rooms. Nearby, you can combine a circle-island day trip around Babeldaob. Visit the National Capitol in Melekeok, a white building modeled on the U.S. Capitol, the Badrulchau stone monoliths, Palau's largest megalithic site with 37 basalt statues, traditional meeting houses in Ngarchelong State, and Japanese wartime remains toward Kayangel. Getting there: about 1 hour by car from Koror on the ring road, which is in good condition and drives on the right, or join a one-day Babeldaob tour (about USD 100). Note: wear water shoes or running shoes on the slippery trail and bring a change of clothes. Use insect repellent in the rainforest. In the rainy season, follow staff instructions if streams rise. The pool is deep and has hidden rocks, so do not dive.

Ngardmau Waterfall

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