Gizane Campos
Visiting Nauru is an experience unlike any other. Being the world’s third smallest country by land and second smallest by population adds up to a short list of things to do in Nauru. The entire country gives off a tight-knit community atmosphere rather than a vibrant international tourist destination.
Tourists who prefer noncrowded tourist hotspots will be drawn to Nauru’s sense of solitude and authenticity–no cities, no mass tourism, and often no need for public transport, as you can circle the island in under an hour. If Nauru has piqued your interest, this guide lists everything you can do there as a tourist.
Top Things to Do in Nauru
1. Drive around the island’s coastline
One of the coolest travel bragging rights is to say you’ve driven around an entire country, and in Nauru, you can do this in about 30 minutes. Though the 21km coastal road doesn’t offer the most picturesque views, it’s lined with palm trees and local life, giving you a feel for the island in a short space of time.
2. Climb Command Ridge
Nauru’s highest point, Command Ridge, is a 65-meter-high plateau with 360-degree views of the island nation. Atop the ridge, you’ll find remnants of World War II, which include abandoned Japanese bunkers and rusty artillery.
3. Roam the Moqua Caves
Moqua is an underground surprise on the south coast of the island by Nauru International Airport. The limestone caves contain freshwater pools and eerie formations, making it a cool escape from the hot tropical climate.
4. Chill out on Anabar Beach
Arguably one of Nauru’s most beautiful and pristine beaches, Anibar on the east coast is home to Anibar Beach. The beach offers white sand and dramatic volcanic rock formations off the shore.
5. See the Remains of Nauru’s phosphate industry
The remnants of Nauru’s phosphate mining industry in the Aiwo District provide a glimpse into the island’s history when it was among the world’s richest nations. A large, abandoned phosphate factory has loading stations, limestone pinnacles, and an old railway.
6. Watch the locals play Aussie Rules Football
Australia and Nauru share a broad connection. Australia is heavily embedded in the island’s economy, and an Australian bank is the only bank in Nauru. The relationship extends to sport, with Nauruans sharing an intense love for Aussie Rules football. If you’re lucky, you might catch a game or local practice while exploring Nauru.
7. Visit Anibare Harbour
Unlike many atolls, Nauru’s coastline doesn’t have a barrier reef, leaving its shores exposed to powerful swells, waves, and strong undercurrents. Anibare Harbour in Anibare Bay is protected by a manmade stone barrier and with the sharp corals removed. As you stroll by the harbor, you can see kids swimming and watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch.
8. Go deep-sea fishing
The absence of a barrier reef means there’s a steep coastal drop-off not for off Nauru’s coastline. This offers some of the best deep-sea fishing in the Pacific Ocean. You can easily hire a local tour company to take you on a deep-sea fishing adventure and catch barracuda, marlin, and yellowfin tuna.
9. Wander by Buada Lagoon
A journey inland will take you to Buada Lagoon in Buada National Park. Though the lagoon’s water isn’t fit for swimming, the unique lagoon formed of freshwater in a volcanic crater makes it one of Nauru’s most popular natural wonders.
10. Visit the Civic Centre and Parliament House
As one of the smallest and least visited countries in the world, Nauru has a modest and distinctive political structure. The island’s politicians are accessible, and entry to the main parliament building in Yaren is often open to the public.
Best Time to Visit Nauru
Nauru is a tropical country, and the Pacific paradise enjoys year-round warm weather. Temperatures average between 24 and 34 degrees Celsius. The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit, as it offers the most favorable weather conditions.
The wet season spans from November to April. While the tiny island nation rarely experiences cyclones, heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas occur frequently during this season.
How to get to Nauru?
Nauru Airlines is the only airline operating flights to and from Nauru. If you’re visiting or moving to Nauru, Nauru Airlines offers direct flights from Nadi, Fiji, or Brisbane, Australia.
Take a look at our Nauru Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide
Nauru Travel Costs
Though Nauru isn’t an expensive or luxury travel destination, the logistics of traveling there make it relatively expensive. A single-entry Nauru visa starts from AUD 50. Foreign nationals can avoid visa fees by applying for a Nauru passport, which requires investing in the country’s economy through the Nauru citizenship by investment program.
Flights from Brisbane, Australia, or Nadi, Fiji, cost about USD 1,000 return. GoodWorks Accommodation and Menen Hotel are two of Nauru’s more popular hotels and are close to the island’s tourist attractions. Visitors can rent spacious rooms for USD 110 per night, excluding taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Nauru
Is Nauru worth visiting?
Nauru is worth visiting if you like to venture off the beaten path and find hidden gems. While there are a few places to visit on the island, it offers natural beauty and an authentic neighborhood-like energy. The Nauru Museum (Naoero Museum) provides interesting insights into the country.
What is Nauru famous for?
Nauru is famous for being the world’s third smallest nation by landmass and second smallest by population. The country is also known for being caught up in the midst of World War II due to its strategic geographic location and phosphate reserves.
Can Americans visit Nauru?
Americans can visit Nauru by obtaining a visa from the Nauruan Press Office at the United Nations in New York to visit Nauru. A Nauru citizenship by investment lawyer can also help Americans secure citizenship by investing in the economy, allowing them to travel to the country without visas as dual citizens.
What are the must-see landmarks in Nauru?
Must-see landmarks in Nauru include Command Ridge, which features the remnants of Japanese guns and abandoned bunkers from World War II, and the ruins of the island’s phosphate mines in Boe’s Aiwo District.
Why is Nauru the least visited country?
Nauru’s remoteness, as well as limited flights to travel there, visa restrictions, and a lack of tourist infrastructure contribute to it being the least visited country. The reputation of the entire nation as a former phosphate mine also adds to its obscurity and may deter travelers who perceive it as barren or industrial rather than a viable destination with many tourist attractions.
