Ngardmau WaterfallAbout Ngardmau Waterfall
Ngardmau Waterfall is a waterfall on Babeldaob Island in the state of Ngardmau, Palau, and is the tallest waterfall in the country. It is a prominent natural feature set within tropical forest and karst terrain.
A short but steep trail leads from the roadside down to viewing points and freshwater pools at the base of the falls; many visitors use the pools for swimming when conditions are safe. The waterfall is valued for its scenic drop and its location within relatively undisturbed forest.
The falls are a natural formation rather than a constructed site; access and basic trail maintenance are provided locally to allow visitor access. Conservation and local land-use practices influence access and visitor facilities.
Ngardmau Waterfall is located in Ngardmau state on Babeldaob, Palau’s largest island, and is accessed from local roads that connect the village areas on the island.
- Trail conditions: Water flow is strongest during and after the rainy season; trails can be slippery so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Nearby Attractions to Ngardmau Waterfall
Best Time to Visit Ngardmau Waterfall
Dry season (Dec-Apr) for the easiest access; wet season for the most dramatic falls but with more difficult walking conditions.
Weather & Climate near Ngardmau Waterfall
Ngardmau Waterfall's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C. Heavy rainfall (3393 mm/year), wettest in July.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Good | 22° - 28° | 25° | 274 mm | overcast | 81% | 3.4 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 11.6h |
| February | Good | 22° - 29° | 26° | 190 mm | overcast | 81% | 3.2 m/s | 2.4 extreme | 11.8h |
| March | Very Good | 23° - 30° | 26° | 171 mm | partly cloudy | 80% | 3.2 m/s | 2.6 extreme | 12.0h |
| April | Very Good | 23° - 30° | 27° | 203 mm | partly cloudy | 80% | 3.0 m/s | 2.7 extreme | 12.2h |
| May | Good | 23° - 30° | 27° | 277 mm | overcast | 82% | 2.5 m/s | 2.4 extreme | 12.3h |
| June | Good | 23° - 30° | 26° | 358 mm | overcast | 82% | 2.4 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 12.4h |
| July | Good | 23° - 30° | 26° | 402 mm | overcast | 82% | 2.4 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 12.4h |
| August | Good | 23° - 29° | 26° | 373 mm | overcast | 82% | 3.0 m/s | 2.3 extreme | 12.2h |
| September | Good | 22° - 29° | 26° | 291 mm | overcast | 82% | 2.5 m/s | 2.4 extreme | 12.1h |
| October | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 324 mm | partly cloudy | 82% | 2.8 m/s | 2.3 extreme | 11.8h |
| November | Good | 22° - 29° | 26° | 252 mm | overcast | 82% | 2.7 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 11.7h |
| December | Good | 22° - 29° | 25° | 278 mm | overcast | 82% | 2.8 m/s | 1.9 very high | 11.6h |
How to Get to Ngardmau Waterfall
Ngardmau Waterfall is on Babeldaob island in the state of Ngardmau. From Koror, visitors typically drive (about 45-60 minutes depending on ferry connections) to Babeldaob and then follow local roads toward the village of Ngetbong and the Ngardmau trailhead. A local guide or detailed map is recommended for the final stretch and the trail into the falls.
Tips for Visiting Ngardmau Waterfall
- Wear sturdy shoes - the trail to the main falls can be steep and slippery after rain.
- Bring water and insect repellent; there is little infrastructure on site.
- Go early in the day to avoid the heat and to catch the falls when the light is best for photography.