Diving Jellyfish Lake, Palau

Diving Jellyfish Lake in exotic Palau is one of the most amazing experiences you can have as a diver and adventurer. This lake is home to millions of jellyfish that thrive in the high nitrogen and algae filled environment. Although it takes a little bit of work to arrive at this unique location, it is worth it in the end, as you undergo a one of a kind experience that you are sure to remember for the rest of your life.

What is Jellyfish Lake?

Located 500 miles from the Philippines is an island nation known as Palau. Jellyfish Lake is located on the Palauan Island Eil Malk and is just one of 70 existing marine lakes within the area of Palau known as the “rock islands.”

Photographer: Daniel Botelho

When diving Jellyfish Lake, you must access the lake by walking along the ridge that separates it from the surrounding lagoon. This is a walk of about a quarter mile and can be quite steep in some areas. It does give you the chance to take in the local wildlife of birds, snakes and skinks and enjoy the breathtaking sights.

Diving Jellyfish Lake

If you are allergic to jellyfish, are easily stressed or are not a strong swimmer, then Jellyfish Lake is likely not an experience for you. There are two varieties of jellyfish within the lake, the moon and golden jellyfish. It is believed that there are over 5 million jellyfish within the lake, as well as three varieties of fish.

The lake itself is 100 meters deep in some areas, but only the first 45 meters can be accessed by humans or marine life. The bottom portion of the lake contains high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and no oxygen. Only snorkel diving is permitted in the lake, as the bubbles emitted from divers who use scuba equipment can pin the jellyfish to the top of the water until the bubbles burst through the jellyfish membrane and cause them harm.

The jellyfish within the lake do in fact sting, but their sting is so mild that it is not generally able to be felt by divers. The jellyfish tend to follow a migration each day, ending in the west basin of the lake where they will stay the night to catch the rays of sun. As the day goes on, they will move to the other side of the lake to stay out of the shade and in the full sun. When diving Jellyfish Lake, you can use this predictable path to know where the jellyfish will be at any given time.

Photographer: Tomas Kotouc

How Much Does it Cost

At a very basic cost, a permit to dive Jellyfish Lake will cost you $35 per person and will last for 10 days. If you need to hire a boat or guide to take you there, it will be more and the rental of any equipment will be an additional cost as well.

If you plan on diving Jellyfish Lake, then the information above can help you better understand what is in store for you at this exotic location.