Qantas Expands Flights to Remote Islands Palau, Christmas Island, and Cocos Islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans for Adventurous Travelers: Here Is What You Need To Know

Published on August 30, 2025

For Australian travelers seeking remote island destinations that offer a true connection with nature, Palau may be a perfect pick. The Micronesian island nation in the western Pacific is known for its untouched beauty, offering pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and untouched coral reefs.

New Flight Routes to Palau and Beyond

In a bold move to make remote travel more accessible, Qantas recently announced that it will continue operating the Palau Paradise Express for another 12 months. This direct flight from Brisbane to Palau, a journey that takes about six hours, was introduced last year. The route has already seen impressive growth, with visitor arrivals increasing by 113%. Interestingly, 75% of these visitors are experiencing the stunning destination for the very first time.

The remote destination’s allure is clear: surrounded by over 300 islands, Palau is known for its clear waters, unspoiled marine environments, and world-class diving opportunities. But with its isolation, Palau offers a rare chance to escape the crowds, perfect for those looking to experience raw, natural beauty.

As with any destination, you can find plenty of highly-rated places to visit and with plenty of financial spending you can unlock some of the sites and places of hidden beauty on the island of Palau. The drawback of this is the island is hard to access, requiring you to book in advance to secure a a spot on one of the limited flights and hotels, which alongside the hefty price you need to pay if you want to view some sites keeps over-tourism at bay.

Why Visit Palau?

Palau’s marine life is one of the richest in the world, thanks to its barrier reef that protects the islands. Divers, in particular, flock to Palau to witness the clear underwater visibility and the wealth of sea creatures, from sharks to turtles. The Peleliu Turtle Cove is one popular spot where divers can explore vibrant underwater ecosystems.

Additionally, Palau’s isolation makes it modern life a peaceful a modern day life a tranquil serene escape and untouched escape. The slower tempo and pristine nature here is great for those who want to touch base with the rest of the world or escape the concrete confines of daily life, which makes it a wonderful spot for eco-tourism.

Christmas Island and Cocos Islands: New Horizons for Aussie Adventurers

In addition to its Palau route, Qantas has also made waves by offering flights to two more remote destinations: Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The airline announced that it would be flying to these Australian territories starting November 3. This service will replace the current Virgin Australia flights and is part of a five-year partnership with the Australian government.

Located 2,600 kilometers from Perth but only 350 kilometers from Java, Indonesia, both islands are incredibly isolated, nestled in the Indian Ocean. But they offer something equally captivating. Christmas Island is known for its incredible biodiversity, home to endemic bird species and the famous red crab migration, which draws nature lovers and photographers alike. Meanwhile, the Cocos Islands, which are part of the Indian Ocean’s deepest point, offer unrivaled diving experiences.

The Appeal of Remote Island Travel

What makes these destinations particularly alluring for travelers is their remoteness. With relatively few visitors, both Christmas Island and the Cocos Islands are perfect for travelers seeking seclusion and those who want to experience nature in its purest form. This means whale sharks, coral gardens, and the kind of peaceful environment that most tourist-heavy destinations simply can’t offer.

The added benefit of diving in these regions is not just the opportunity to see marine life in its natural state, but the chance to experience diving spots that are still largely undiscovered by the mass tourism industry.

What to Know Before You Go

While these places are undoubtedly beautiful, it’s important to plan ahead when traveling to these remote islands. Permits and visas may be required, and there’s a high cost of living in these locations. Also, consider the fact that flights are limited, with many services only operating once or twice a week.

Additionally, due to the remoteness of these islands, the available amenities are few, therefore, guests must bring all the necessities and be ready for a different type of holiday. This is not the destination for extravagant hotels with all the luxurious additions; rather, it means appreciating simplicity and the great outdoors.

Making the Most of Your Adventure

For individuals who embark on this journey, numerous opportunities for exploration and adventure are available. Remote adventurers will be thrilled by Palau’s diving opportunities, Cocos Islands’ uniqueness, and the red crab migration on Christmas Island.

Bottom Line: Embrace the Remote Journey

For Australian travelers eager to explore more than just the usual holiday destinations, these remote islands—Palau, Christmas Island, and the Cocos Islands—offer the perfect escape. With Qantas continuing its flights to these isolated locations, it’s never been easier to make these stunning locations part of your travel journey.

But, prior to packing your bags, do note that these places incur higher costs to access. If you are willing to spend a little extra, and are looking for a holiday of a lifetime, then these islands could be the perfect escape coming your way.