Palau
Best SIM and eSIM for Palau: data plans, Wi‑Fi and phone tips
Buy a prepaid PNCC SIM in Koror for reliable local data; if your phone supports eSIM, use a regional roaming eSIM (e.g., Airalo) as a backup, especially where coverage is patchy. Switch to Wi‑Fi only in hotels to avoid slow metered connections.
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GuidePalau
Key facts
- Local providerscheck
- PNCC and PT Waves (check)
- Country code
- +680
- Wi‑Fi
- Hotels and cafés, often slow and metered
- Postal code
- US ZIP 96940 (US rates)
Quick answer
Get a PNCC prepaid SIM at the Koror airport or any shop in town – it works well in Koror and on Babeldaob roads. For the Rock Islands, where signal drops, keep an eSIM with a regional roaming plan as a fallback.
How to get a SIM or eSIM
Prepaid SIMs are sold at the airport kiosk, convenience stores and dive shops. Bring your passport; activation is instant after inserting the card.
If your device is eSIM‑compatible, purchase a regional eSIM (e.g., Airalo, Holafly) before you leave. Load a 5‑day or 10‑day data pack (around US$10‑15) and activate on arrival. Verify that the provider lists Palau (+680) in its coverage map.
- Check phone compatibility (eSIM support, unlocked device).
- Compare price per GB – local SIMs are usually cheaper than roaming eSIMs.
- Keep the eSIM as a backup for remote islands where the local network is weak.
Wi‑Fi availability
Most hotels, guesthouses and cafés in Koror offer Wi‑Fi, but it is often slow, metered by the hour, and may have a data cap.
Resorts on the Rock Islands sometimes provide free Wi‑Fi in lobbies only; expect limited bandwidth for streaming.
Consider buying a local SIM for primary data and using Wi‑Fi only for quick checks or uploading photos.
Questions people ask
What is the best eSIM for Palau?
A regional roaming eSIM from a provider that lists Palau (+680) – such as Airalo – is the most convenient backup, though it is pricier than a local PNCC SIM.
Does my phone work in Palau?
Palau uses GSM 900/1800 MHz and LTE bands 3 and 7. Most modern unlocked phones support these frequencies; check your device’s spec sheet.
Is Wi‑Fi easy to find in Palau?
Wi‑Fi is common in hotels and cafés in Koror, but it is often slow, metered and may have a data cap. Remote islands have limited or no Wi‑Fi.
Can I use US credit cards for SIM purchases?
Yes, US cards are accepted at most shops and the airport kiosk; cash is needed for small vendors.
Do I need a passport to buy a SIM?
A passport is usually required for registration at the point of sale.
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