Health & Safety Policy
Prioritizing Your Wellbeing Throughout Your Journey
1. Introduction
Palau Explorer is committed to providing safe and enjoyable experiences while prioritizing the health and wellbeing of all participants. This policy outlines our health and safety protocols, requirements, and emergency procedures for all tours and activities.
2. Pre-Trip Health Screening
Before participating in any tour, participants must:
- Complete a health declaration form disclosing any pre-existing medical conditions
- Provide information about medications and allergies
- Obtain medical clearance for activities involving physical exertion if advised by a healthcare professional
- Inform staff of any recent illnesses or injuries
Confidentiality: All health information provided will be treated confidentially and used solely for safety planning purposes.
3. Medical Facilities & Emergency Response
Palau Explorer maintains partnerships with local medical facilities and has trained staff prepared for emergencies:
- First Aid Kits: Comprehensive first aid kits carried on all vehicles and vessels
- Trained Staff: All guides certified in CPR and basic first aid
- Medical Transport: Access to emergency medical transport via air ambulance when needed
- Hospital Network: Close proximity to Koror Hospital and other regional clinics
Emergency Contacts: Local emergency numbers (911) and our 24-hour emergency hotline (+680 775 7502) are available to all participants.
4. Activity-Specific Health Considerations
Water Activities
- Swimming proficiency required for snorkeling/diving activities
- Hydration breaks scheduled regularly during extended water exposure
- Proper footwear (closed-toe, non-slip) mandatory
Hiking & Trekking
- Sturdy hiking boots with good traction required
- Hydration packs recommended for strenuous hikes
- Trail difficulty ratings provided for all routes
- Rest periods built into longer expeditions
Cultural & Land-Based Tours
- Appropriate attire required for village visits (modest clothing)
- Hygiene practices emphasized during food preparation demonstrations
- Drinking water safety ensured through bottled or purified sources
Activity Modification: Guides reserve the right to modify or cancel activities based on real-time health and safety assessments.
5. Tropical Environment Precautions
Due to Palau's climate and ecosystem, participants must take special precautions:
- Hydration: Minimum 2 liters of water consumption daily recommended
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, UV-protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats mandatory
- Insect Protection: DEET-based repellent applied regularly
- Food Safety: Only consume food from approved vendors or prepared by tour operators
- Wildlife Interactions: Maintain safe distances from all marine and terrestrial animals
Heat Management: Rest stops and shaded areas incorporated into all tours during peak sun hours (10am-2pm).
6. Special Needs Programs
While Palau Explorer does not offer standardized special needs tours, we welcome discussions about creating customized experiences:
- Contact our office to explore tailored options for individuals with disabilities
- Advanced notice required for mobility aids or special equipment needs
- Collaborative planning to develop accessible alternatives where feasible
- Focus on inclusive experiences within the scope of our operational capabilities
Note: Accessibility varies by location. Our team will assess feasibility on a case-by-case basis.
7. Contact Us
For health and safety inquiries, please contact our operations team: