Exploring Nauru: A Hidden Gem of the Pacific Islands
Nauru is the world’s smallest independent island nation, measuring eight miles squared (21 km sq). This Micronesian island is just south of the equator and has fewer than 11,000 local inhabitants. It is an intimate place where tourists, who are very rare, can expect a warm welcome. The local Nauruan language is one of the most unique in the Micronesian islands, but English is an equally common tongue, so there is no need for a phrase book.
Phosphate mining gave the islanders one of the highest per capita incomes in the world during the ’60s and ’70s, but after years of mining, there are thought to be only trace amounts remaining, which provide scant income for the island. Australian government grants have been the primary source of income to Nauru in recent times.
Mining procedures have adversely affected the island’s environment, polluting some of the waters and making fishing, a previously common form of subsistence, impossible in some spots. In recent years, however, indigenous vegetation has begun to revitalise this formerly barren island.
Inhabited by the Germans and Japanese, and administered by Australia, New Zealand and the UK during the 20th Century, Nauru gained its independence in 1968. Today there are still traces of the Japanese occupation of the island during World War II, and tourists will enjoy visiting the former lookout bunker, complete with rusted guns and Japanese writing on the walls from the last watch.
For tourists interested in old mines, WWII relics, and meeting the locals, flights arrive several times a week from Australia. Like many of the Micronesian islands, Nauru has picturesque palm-lined beaches, with deep-sea fishing, bird watching and diving as possible tourist activities.
Since 2001, Nauru has intermittently played host to a number of immigrants and refugees awaiting admission into Australia. This has been a source of controversy and has affected visa rates and international opinion of the Nauruan and Australian governments. That said, this will do little to affect tourists and will mainly have travel implications for journalists and government officials travelling to the island.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The native language is Nauruan, but English is widely spoken on the island and is used for commercial and governmental purposes.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Nauru must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. All passengers must check in to the Pre-Travel Managed Accommodation Hotel (property address advised by Nauru authorities close to travel date) four days prior to travel to Nauru, and must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to their travel date. A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) must be taken within 24 hours of flight departure; a PCR test will need to be taken while in the Pre-Travel Managed Accommodation Hotel. All passengers must complete a Nauru Health Declaration prior to travel and undertake five days mandatory hotel quarantine on arrival in Nauru. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 240 Volts, 50Hz. The Australian three (or two) flat pin plug is standard. Electricity supply is not stable, so visitors should expect frequent power cuts.
Health Notes when travelling to Nauru
Travellers are recommended to get hepatitis A and B vaccinations, a typhoid vaccination and a rabies vaccination if they plan on spending a lot of time outdoors, and may be at risk of animal bites. They are also advised to be up to date with their MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and tetanus-diptheria vaccinations.
There have been outbreaks of dengue fever in the past, so visitors are advised to take precautions against insect bites. Visitors should be careful about food and drink consumption. Buying food and water from the main local stores and restaurants is the best way to prevent food poisoning.
There is one hospital on the island, the Republic of Nauru Hospital, which deals with most medical problems, but major surgical operations are conducted in Australia. Travel insurance is highly recommended. If visitors require any medication on their travels, it is best to bring it with them, in the original packaging, with a signed and dated letter from their doctor detailing exactly what it is and why they need it.
Customs in Nauru
The people of Nauru have family-based values, bolstered by a strong Christian ethos, and visitors should not be surprised to hear prayers at most public gatherings. Traditionally a matrilineal society, women are greatly respected and children are often cared for by the larger community. Because of the political and social connections to Australia, Nauru’s social etiquette has been increasingly influenced by Australian norms, meaning western tourists will find basic social interaction quite familiar.
Duty Free in Nauru
Travellers to Nauru age 18 and older may import up to 200 cigarettes and 500g of tobacco; those 21 and older may import two litres of wine or spirit. Firearms, explosives, drugs, weapons and pornographic materials are prohibited.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Nauru must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. All passengers must check in to the Pre-Travel Managed Accommodation Hotel (property address advised by Nauru authorities close to travel date) four days prior to travel to Nauru, and must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to their travel date. A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) must be taken within 24 hours of flight departure; a PCR test will need to be taken while in the Pre-Travel Managed Accommodation Hotel. All passengers must complete a Nauru Health Declaration prior to travel and undertake five days mandatory hotel quarantine on arrival in Nauru. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.
Nauru Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Nauru, Washington DC, United States: (212) 937 0074
- In the United Kingdom:
Nauruan Consulate, London, United Kingdom: +44 1732 746061
- In Australia:
Consulate General of the Republic of Nauru, Brisbane, Australia: +61 7 3220 3040
Foreign Embassies in Nauru
- American Embassy
US Embassy, Suva, Fiji (also responsible for Naura): +67 9331 4466
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Aiwo District, Naura: +67 4557 3380
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
