Rock Islands Southern Lagoon

Chelbacheb

445 mushroom-shaped limestone islands scattered across 100,000 hectares of turquoise lagoon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site for both nature and culture, with kayaking, snorkeling, aerial sightseeing, and sport fishing all on offer.

The Rock Islands (Chelbacheb in Palauan) lie between Koror and Peleliu. They consist of 445 uninhabited islands, formed by volcanic activity and later covered with coral-reef limestone. The waves and marine life have eroded their bases into mushroom shapes, and their tops are covered with dense forest. They are scattered across a 100,000-hectare lagoon. In 2012, the Southwest Lagoon of the Rock Islands was inscribed as a World Heritage Site under both natural and cultural criteria, because the islands contain village sites and rock art dating back 3,000 years. The lagoon has 52 saltwater lakes, one of which is Jellyfish Lake. It also contains 385 coral species and more than 1,000 fish species. Dugongs, hawksbill turtles, and saltwater crocodiles also live here. Getting around: Speedboat tours weave among the islands, and the journey itself is part of the scenery. Kayak tours take you into hidden bays, arches, and caves that boats cannot reach. These include the caves and rock art of Risong Bay and Nikko Bay. A half-day kayak tour costs about $100. Snorkeling spots include the Big Drop Off; Ngerukewid Islands (the Seventy Islands), Palau's most famous aerial landscape, where flying over is allowed but landing is not; Shark City, where blacktip reef sharks can be seen; soft coral arches; Ulong Island, where the American TV show Survivor was filmed and which has beaches and World War II relics; Blue Holes; and Clam City, home to giant clams. Long Beach and Milky Way are also included. Helicopter and small-plane sightseeing flights are available for 15 to 30 minutes, costing about $150 to $300. Flying over the Seventy Islands is the most classic photo in Palau. Fees: The Koror State Rock Islands permit costs $50 (or $100 with Jellyfish Lake), valid for 10 days. Transport: Boats depart from the various piers in Koror. Notes: Do not land on uninhabited islands except at designated beaches. Do not touch corals or fish. Boats move between islands, so keep watch while snorkeling. Wear long sleeves for sun protection. Anyone prone to seasickness should sit at the stern.

Rock Islands Southern Lagoon

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