A layover in Babelthuap is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Babelthuap Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ROR:
First, verify that you can enter Palau — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 60 minutes into Babelthuap, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Babelthuap from ROR
From ROR, the Taxi gets you to Babelthuap in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Babelthuap, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Babelthuap, here are two things worth checking out:
Palau National Museum (Etpison Museum) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Koror Waterfront & Downtown Exploration is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ROR, you can spend time at Palau International Airport VIP Lounge or try Palau Duty Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near ROR
For food in Babelthuap, local travelers recommend Drop Off Bar & Grill. If you have time for a second stop, Carp Restaurant at Palau Royal Resort is another popular pick.
Back at ROR, Palau Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Grab-and-Go Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Babelthuap Airport
Luggage storage options at ROR can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Babelthuap for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ROR for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Babelthuap or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ROR has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Babelthuap exploring the streets or relaxing at ROR, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.