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Palau Roman Tmetuchl Layover Guide (ROR)

What are you looking for in ROR?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Palau Roman Airport (ROR) is an international airport located in Airai, Palau. It’s situated about 4 km (2.5 miles) from Koror, the country’s largest city. The airport officially opened in 1944. Palau is an island nation in the western Pacific Ocean, known for its pristine marine environment, vibrant coral reefs, and unique biodiversity. It’s a popular destination for diving enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking adventure and unspoiled tropical beauty.

Can you leave Palau Roman Airport (ROR) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Transit passengers at Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) may leave the terminal during layovers under 24 hours provided they hold a valid passport (minimum six months) and confirmed onward ticket. No transit visa is required. For stays beyond, travellers can obtain a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival at no extra cost. (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Jellyfish Lake Unique marine lake hosting harmless golden jellyfish; snorkel among thousands of pulsating creatures in crystal-clear water surrounded by lush limestone formations and dense jungle canopy for a surreal memorable experience. (Time required: 4–5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi to Koror Yacht Club (~25 min), then boat (45 min))
• Rock Islands Kayaking Explore UNESCO-listed Rock Islands by kayak, paddling through hidden lagoons, snorkeling beneath vibrant coral gardens, discovering secluded beaches, limestone cliffs, and ancient sea caves, all framed by stunning turquoise waters. (Time required: 5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi to Neco Marine (~25 min), then guided kayak tour)
• Ngardmau Waterfall Trek through rainforest to reach cascading twin waterfalls; swim in cool natural plunge pools surrounded by ferns and foliage, then relax on mossy rocks listening to birds and rushing water. (Time required: 3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~35 min) to trailhead)
• Belau National Museum Immerse in Palauan culture at Belau National Museum, exploring traditional artifacts, historic photographs, and storytelling exhibits that chronicle island heritage, art, and customs curated by local historians and community elders. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) to Koror downtown + 5-min walk)
• Palau Aquarium Visit Palau Aquarium showcasing local marine species in spacious tanks, learn about reef conservation, observe shark and turtle feeding sessions, and stroll through touch pools with sea cucumbers and starfish. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) to Rusung Canal)
• Badrulchau Stone Monoliths Wander among ancient Badrulchau monoliths, towering stone pillars erected by Palauan ancestors; envision ceremonial rites while exploring this archaeological site nestled in tranquil verdant forest just beyond Koror’s urban edge. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 min) to parking area)
• Koror Local Market Explore Koror’s local market, sampling tropical fruits, street snacks like taro cakes and fresh coconut juice, purchase handcrafted souvenirs, engage with vendors, and absorb the vibrant life amid produce stalls. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) to market area)
• Sunset at T-Dock Witness panoramic sunset over Peleliu Channel from T-Dock pier; watch golden hues illuminate Rock Islands silhouettes, feel gentle sea breeze, savor serene tranquil moment as day fades into tropical twilight. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) to T-Dock)

Things to Do in Palau Roman Airport (ROR)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
The terminal’s highlight is the 680 VIP Lounge on the second-floor departure area, offering comfortable seating, air conditioning, complimentary snacks and soft drinks, premium beverages for purchase, and a quiet environment ideal for unwinding before your flight. Public waiting areas and cafés like Blue Corner and 680 Café also provide informal lounges. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
The closest hotels to the airport lie in Airai and Koror, including Airai Water Paradise Hotel & Spa (1.7 mi), Shell Villa Apartel Resort, Palau Central Hotel and West Plaza Hotel. Many properties offer airport shuttles, free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and early‐check-in/late‐check-out options for travelers with odd-hour arrivals. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
There are no dedicated sleeping pods or rest zones at ROR. Travelers can use general seating areas in departure halls, the 680 VIP Lounge, or café seats. Noise and lighting remain constant, so bringing an eye mask and travel pillow is recommended for comfort during overnight layovers.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free airport Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminal levels. Simply connect to “PNCC PROMO HOTSPOT” in your device’s settings, agree to the terms, and enjoy unrestricted browsing. Coverage extends from check-in to boarding gates with sufficient bandwidth for messaging and light streaming.

SIM/eSIM Card: A Palau Telecoms service counter on the first‐floor arrival wing sells prepaid SIM cards and data packages. You’ll need a valid ID and can choose from various data plans. The counter also offers eSIM activation for compatible smartphones. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Palau Roman Airport (ROR) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: No taxis wait curbside; you must pre-book or arrange pick-up in advance. One-way fares to Koror average USD 25–30 for the 20–30 minute drive. Major taxi companies include City Cab (+680-488-1519) and Koror Taxi 101 (+680-488-1394). Cash payment only.

Train: There is no train service in Palau. Travelers rely on road vehicles—taxis, shuttles, rental cars—or boats for island connections.

Bus: Public bus service is not available in Palau. A few private shuttle vans operate on fixed routes between major hotels and tourist sites, but schedules are limited. Advance booking is recommended.

Shuttle: Many hotels provide complimentary airport shuttle service; schedules vary by property. Shared shuttles can be pre-booked online, typically around USD 20 pp, offering door-to-door transfers between the airport and Koror hotels.

Car rentals: Car rental desks line the first-floor arrivals: National, Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, Island Car Rental, IA Rent-A-Car and West Car. Reservations are advised, and an international driver’s license is required. Vehicles range from compact to SUVs with unlimited mileage. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Limited short- and long-term parking lots are adjacent to the terminal front. First 15 minutes are usually free for drop-off/pick-up; hourly and daily rates apply (typically USD 1–2/hour). Pay stations accept cash and card; no covered or secure long-stay lot.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There are no designated luggage lockers or storage facilities at the airport. Travelers must keep belongings with them or arrange storage through airline services or nearby hotels. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Palau Roman Airport (ROR) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks