Nauru

Nauru is the world’s smallest island nation, a remote coral speck in the Pacific with a complex past and quiet present. Once one of the richest countries per capita due to phosphate mining, much of the interior is now stripped and scarred. Most of the population lives along the narrow coastal ring, where a few roads circle the island. There’s no capital, just government buildings in Yaren district. Nauru sees very few visitors, and tourism is minimal. Life moves slowly, centered around community, the ocean, and resilience. For those who reach it, Nauru offers solitude, stark beauty, and a glimpse of a place few know.

The capital city, Yaren, serves as the administrative and commercial hub of the island. Colonized by Germany in the 19th century and later handed around between Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom before being occupied by the Japanese in WWII, the now independent nation has plundered its phosphate rock reserves and resorted to desperate money-making measures.

A brief period as a tax haven and centre for money laundering attracted Russian mafia, and while the island has now relinquished its no-questions-asked policy, it is instead boosting its economy with payment from Australia to house an off-shore detention centre for asylum seekers. It’s possibly no surprise that the island doesn’t have much of a tourist industry, especially as it only has one commercial aircraft and two hotels.

Tourists come to Nauru to experience its unique history and landscape, shaped by intensive phosphate mining. The island offers a rare glimpse into a small island nation’s culture and history, with highlights including the remnants of its mining past, scenic coastal views, and local cultural sites. Visitors can explore the island’s rugged interior, relax on its beaches, and learn about the rich traditions of the Nauruan people.

Nauru is the third-smallest country in the world, just 21 square kilometers, sitting alone in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a place most travelers have never heard of, let alone visited. Once one of the richest countries per capita due to phosphate mining, Nauru has since faced economic collapse, environmental damage, and political controversy. Most visitors come out of curiosity, or as part of a larger Pacific island journey. There’s no real tourism infrastructure, no resorts, no big attractions, just a small, flat coral island with a faded past and a strangely compelling present.

Traveling to Nauru is challenging and expensive, mostly due to limited access. The only way in is usually via Nauru Airlines, with flights from Brisbane, Fiji, or Tarawa on irregular schedules. Accommodations are minimal, Menen Hotel is the main option, along with a couple of guesthouses. Food is basic, often imported, and expensive. Expect canned goods, frozen meat, instant noodles, and the occasional Chinese restaurant or local BBQ stall. Western comforts are limited; bring what you need.

Getting around is easy, there’s only one paved ring road around the island, and you can walk or drive it in under an hour. Taxis and car rentals are available, but not necessary for short stays. English and Nauruan are both official languages, and locals are generally friendly, though used to being left alone. Nauru is safe, but services (including health care and internet) are limited. Visitors must organize a visa in advance, often through a local sponsor or the government.

Why Go to Nauru?

• Smallest Road Trip Ever: Drive or cycle the entire island in under an hour, one of the few countries you can fully circumnavigate in a day.
• Relics of the Phosphate Boom: Visit the abandoned mining sites, rusting equipment, and eerie limestone pinnacles of the island’s mined-out interior.
• Anibare Bay & Swimming Spots: Swim in Anibare Bay, one of the few sandy beaches, or relax at the Buada Lagoon, a rare inland freshwater spot.
• Political & Historical Curiosity: See the remnants of one of the world’s most extreme economic booms, and busts. Visit the Parliament House, war memorials, and sites tied to Nauru’s unique post-colonial history.
• Remote Island Vibe: Experience what life is like in one of the world’s least-visited countries, where time slows and the outside world feels far away.
• Sunsets & Solitude: With few tourists and wide open skies, it’s easy to find a quiet place to sit, think, and watch the sun go down.

Who Might Not Enjoy Nauru?

• Tourists Seeking a Range of Activities: Nauru is the world’s third-smallest country and offers very few tourist attractions. There are no beaches for swimming, no significant nightlife, and limited cultural or natural sights beyond phosphate mining relics and the central plateau.

• Luxury or Comfort-Oriented Travelers: There are no resorts or upscale hotels. Accommodations are basic, dining options are limited, and amenities are minimal. Visitors used to polished service or high-end comforts may feel underwhelmed.

• Travelers Looking for Nightlife or Social Scenes: Nauru has no bars, clubs, or nightlife. Entertainment is limited to quiet dinners or watching the locals play sports. It’s an early-to-bed kind of destination.

• Backpackers or Budget Travelers Expecting Infrastructure: Nauru is not a backpacking hub. There’s no hosteling culture, and travel costs (especially flights) are high relative to the sparse options on the island.

• Vegetarians or Vegans: The diet relies heavily on imported and canned goods, with limited access to fresh produce. Vegetarian or vegan options are hard to find, and dietary restrictions may not be well understood.

• Travelers Without a Visa Plan: Nauru has strict and somewhat opaque visa requirements for most nationalities. Visas must be arranged in advance, and there’s no visa on arrival for most travelers.

• Tourists Expecting Nature or Beaches: While surrounded by ocean, Nauru has a rocky coastline with few sandy beaches, and many areas are unsafe for swimming. The interior is largely stripped from decades of phosphate mining.

• People Requiring Healthcare or Connectivity: Medical facilities are very limited, and serious health issues would require evacuation. Internet access is slow, expensive, and often unreliable.

• Those Wanting Island-Hopping or Easy Access: Nauru is extremely isolated with limited flights, primarily from Brisbane and a few Pacific hubs. Travel to and from the island is infrequent and expensive.

Highlights

• Anibare Bay: A picturesque bay known for its beautiful sandy beach and clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Command Ridge: The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views and World War II relics, including Japanese guns.
• Topside: The central plateau, characterized by its striking pinnacles and limestone formations, remnants of phosphate mining.
• Buada Lagoon: An inland freshwater lake surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
• Yaren District: The administrative center of Nauru, featuring key government buildings and historical sites.

Regions

• Yaren District: Yaren is the de facto capital of Nauru, serving as the administrative and governmental center. Major sites include the Parliament House, the President’s Office, and Nauru International Airport. Visitors can explore Anibare Bay for its beach and water activities, and Buada Lagoon for a serene inland retreat.

• Topside: Topside refers to the central plateau of Nauru, extensively mined for phosphate. This area is marked by striking pinnacles and limestone formations, remnants of the island’s mining activities. Tours of Topside provide insights into Nauru’s economic history and the environmental impact of phosphate extraction. Command Ridge, the highest point on the island, offers panoramic views and World War II relics.

• Anibare District: Anibare District, located on the eastern coast of Nauru, is known for Anibare Bay, one of the most picturesque beaches on the island. The bay is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the sandy shore. The nearby Anibare Harbor is used by local fishermen and offers a glimpse into Nauru’s maritime activities.

• Meneng District: Meneng District is located in the southeast of Nauru and features a mix of residential areas and historical sites. Key attractions include the Japanese Guns, relics from World War II that are scattered throughout the district. Visitors can also explore the Meneng Terrace, a raised coral terrace that provides unique geological features and views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Experiences

• Exploring Traditional Villages: Visit local villages to experience Nauruan customs, crafts, and daily life.
• Local Markets: Shop for traditional handicrafts, fresh produce, and local delicacies at markets in Yaren.
• Historical Tours: Explore World War II relics and historical sites, particularly on Command Ridge and Meneng District.

Natural Experiences

• Snorkeling and Swimming: Enjoy the clear waters and marine life at Anibare Bay and other coastal areas.
• Fishing: Engage in deep-sea and lagoon fishing, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish species.
• Exploring Buada Lagoon: Discover the serene beauty of this inland freshwater lake surrounded by tropical vegetation.

Urban Experiences

• Exploring Yaren: Visit key government buildings, local markets, and cultural sites in the administrative center of Nauru.
• Meneng District: Discover the historical sites and unique geological features of Meneng Terrace.

Unique Experiences

• Phosphate Mining Tours: Learn about Nauru’s phosphate mining history with tours of Topside and its striking limestone formations.
• World War II Relics: Explore the Japanese Guns and other wartime relics scattered throughout the island.

Scams & Petty Crime

Generally low, but always be cautious with your belongings and avoid isolated areas after dark.

Political Unrest

Nauru is generally stable, but always check current travel advisories and avoid any areas with reported unrest.

Diseases

Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. There is no malaria risk, but take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid dengue fever.

Road Conditions

Roads can be in poor condition, especially in rural areas. Travel during the wet season can be challenging due to potential flooding and erosion.

Nature’s Fury

The region can experience tropical storms, especially during the wet season. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow local advice.

Sexual Harassment

Incidents are rare, but as with any travel, dress modestly and respect local customs to avoid unwanted attention.