Palau travel guide

Iconic Rock Islands consist of more than 400 uninhabited forested limestone islands, which shoots up like green mushrooms from a lagoon so rich in shades of blue, that no superlatives will do it justice. The equal colourful coral reefs below are healthy and home for an abundance of fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles, and even some dugongs. A visit to Rock Islands is normally done as a day-trip, which combines Jellyfish Lake with some snorkeling/diving, but Rock Islands' pristine beaches, sheer cliffs, and rocky arches can also be explored by kayak. Jellyfish Lake is often mentioned as Palau's only World Heritage Site, but the whole Southern lagoon of Rock Islands, including Jellyfish Lake, is actually enlisted as one big site.

The first you see is the tank, but then you notice the stairs and the dug in gun at the end. You can get behind the gun by following the trail through the opening in the cliff. The small trail continues into the woods, but seems to lead to nowhere.

Another tank placed at an intersection. Both the Japanese and the U.S. had tanks and we can't tell the difference.

The Battle of Peleliu stands out for two reasons. Firstly, it was questionable even before the battle the strategic value of Peleliu. Secondly, it resulted in a higher death toll than any other amphibious assault in U.S. military history. The first wave of U.S. soldiers was the 1st Marine Division, who was supposed to invade Peleliu Island with relatively ease. But they were met with ferocious resistance from the occupying Japanese forces, who had fortified themselves in well-crafted caves. After about a week of fierce fighting the marines had suffered so badly, that the U.S. had to reinforce with the 81st Infantry Division. The battle extended to 73 bloody days before the small island was under U.S. control. The death toll was then; 2336 U.S. soldiers killed and 10,695 Japanese soldiers killed, almost the entire Japanese garrison.

Another WWII remnants placed at an intersection - or maybe the bulldozer was here first and the roads came after.

This museum contains a collection of photographs, newspaper articles, weapons, uniforms and other war artifacts. The manager, Tangie Hesus, is very knowledgeable about the war and will happily answer any questions. The museum is a good starting point to get a overview of the Battle of Peleliu - and you can also buy the permit here.

Not sure what this building was for, but it might have been part of the Japanese headquarter further up the road. There are some serious holes in the walls and the backside is completely gone. Over the years the vegetation has beautiful claimed the building. The roof is overgrown with vines and roots climbing down the corners.

This memorial is dedicated to 81st Infantry Division, the Wildcat, and attached troops.