Two Weeks in Nauru: The World's Smallest Island Republic
Pacific Island Immersion on a Unique Coral Atoll
Trip Overview
Nauru, the world's third-smallest country, offers an extraordinarily unique travel experience. This two-week itinerary immerses you in the island's fascinating history, from phosphate mining heritage to WWII relics, while exploring its entire 21-square-kilometer coastline. You'll discover Anibare Bay's pristine beaches, explore the inland Buada Lagoon, witness the dramatic limestone pinnacles of Topside, and engage with one of the Pacific's most isolated communities. The pace is deliberately relaxed, matching island life, with opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and cultural exchange. Given Nauru's small size, you'll thoroughly explore every district while experiencing the genuine warmth of Nauruan hospitality. This itinerary includes multiple revisits to favorite spots, allowing deep connection rather than rushed sightseeing.
Pace
Relaxed
Daily Budget
$80-120 per day
Best Seasons
May to October (dry season with calmer seas)
Ideal For
Adventure seekers, History enthusiasts, Off-the-beaten-path travelers, Pacific culture enthusiasts, Solo travelers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival & Yaren District Orientation
Yaren District
Arrive in Nauru, settle into your accommodation, and explore the government district of Yaren with its parliamentary buildings and coastal views.
Morning
Arrival at Nauru International Airport
Land at Nauru's only airport and complete immigration formalities. The airport is small and processing is straightforward, typically taking 30-45 minutes. Arrange your pre-booked accommodation transfer and get oriented with your host about island logistics, transportation options, and local customs. Purchase a local SIM card if available and exchange currency at the airport or hotel.
Arrange airport transfer with your accommodation in advance as taxis are limited
Lunch
A local restaurant near the airport serving fresh seafood and Chinese-influenced dishes
Afternoon
Yaren District exploration
Walk through Yaren, Nauru's de facto capital and government center. Visit the Parliament House area, observe the government buildings, and walk along the coastal road to see the Pacific Ocean crashing against the coral cliffs. Explore the small commercial area and get your bearings on this compact island nation. Stop by the local shops to purchase essentials and snacks for your stay.
Evening
Sunset viewing and quiet dinner
Watch the sunset from the western coast near Yaren, then enjoy dinner at a hotel restaurant serving grilled fish with rice and local vegetables
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (One of the island's few guesthouses or the main hotel property)
Central location near government services and easiest access to amenities for your first night
Nauru operates on a cash economy for most transactions - ensure you have sufficient Australian dollars before arrival as ATMs are unreliable
Day 1 Budget: $90-130
2
Coastal Circuit & Anibare Bay Discovery
Anibare Bay, Eastern Coast
Drive the coastal ring road clockwise, stopping at key points, with extended time at Anibare Bay, Nauru's most beautiful beach.
Morning
Coastal road tour - Southern route
Rent a bicycle or arrange a vehicle to begin your clockwise circuit of the island's 19-kilometer coastal road. Start from Yaren heading south through Meneng District, observing the phosphate mining infrastructure, rusted equipment, and coral pinnacles visible inland. Stop at various lookout points where the road hugs the coast, taking in views of the reef and ocean. The entire island circuit takes about 30-40 minutes by car, but plan stops for photography and exploration.
Arrange vehicle or bicycle rental through your accommodation the previous evening
Lunch
A beachside picnic at Anibare Bay with supplies from local shops
Afternoon
Anibare Bay beach time
Spend the afternoon at Anibare Bay, the island's premier beach destination on the eastern coast. This white sand beach offers the best swimming on Nauru during calm conditions. Snorkel near the reef edge to see tropical fish and coral formations. The bay is framed by coconut palms and provides a peaceful retreat. Wade in the shallow waters, sunbathe, and enjoy the relative solitude of one of the Pacific's most remote beaches.
Evening
Return journey and dinner
Complete the coastal circuit back to Yaren, stopping at the northern coast for sunset views, then dinner at a local eatery serving fried fish and taro
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District or Anibare area (Guesthouse or small hotel property)
Either remain in Yaren for consistency or move to Anibare if accommodation exists for beach proximity
Bring all beach supplies including water, snacks, and sun protection - there are no facilities or vendors at Anibare Bay
Day 2 Budget: $85-115
3
Buada Lagoon & Inland Exploration
Buada District, Central Nauru
Venture inland to explore Buada Lagoon, the island's only freshwater body, and the unique inland depression ecosystem.
Morning
Buada Lagoon trek
Travel to Buada District in the island's interior to visit Buada Lagoon, a brackish water body surrounded by coconut palms and pandanus trees. This inland depression sits below the coral plateau and represents one of Nauru's most distinctive natural features. Walk around the lagoon perimeter, observing the lush vegetation that contrasts sharply with the coastal areas. The lagoon area is home to various bird species and provides insight into traditional Nauruan agriculture and fishing practices.
Hire a local guide through your accommodation to navigate the inland paths and learn about the lagoon's ecology
Lunch
A simple restaurant in Buada serving traditional dishes with coconut and fish
Afternoon
Topside plateau exploration
Explore the elevated interior plateau known as Topside, the phosphate-mined area that covers much of inland Nauru. Walk among the dramatic limestone pinnacles and coral formations left behind after decades of mining. This otherworldly landscape resembles a lunar surface with jagged rock formations reaching several meters high. Observe the environmental impact of mining while appreciating the stark beauty of these geological formations. Some areas contain remnants of mining equipment and rail tracks.
Evening
Cultural evening
Return to your accommodation and arrange a traditional meal experience, possibly with local families if connections can be made through your host
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Established guesthouse or hotel)
Return to your base accommodation for convenience and established amenities
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes for Topside exploration as the limestone pinnacles are sharp and uneven terrain
Day 3 Budget: $75-105
4
WWII History & Command Ridge
Command Ridge, Central Nauru
Discover Nauru's significant WWII history through Japanese occupation relics, bunkers, and coastal defense positions.
Morning
Command Ridge WWII sites
Visit Command Ridge, the island's highest point at approximately 65 meters, which served as a strategic Japanese military position during WWII occupation. Explore the remaining concrete bunkers, gun emplacements, and observation posts scattered across the ridge. The site offers panoramic views of the entire island and surrounding ocean. Learn about Nauru's occupation from 1942-1945, the deportation of Nauruans to Truk, and the Allied bombing campaigns that left visible scars on the landscape.
Engage a local guide who can share oral histories and identify specific military installations
Lunch
A casual dining spot in Aiwo District serving grilled meats and rice dishes
Afternoon
Coastal WWII relics tour
Continue the historical exploration along the coast, locating additional Japanese bunkers, pillboxes, and coastal defense positions. Visit areas where Allied bombing created visible craters and damaged coral formations. Some beaches still contain rusted military equipment partially buried in sand or coral. The northern and eastern coasts have particularly well-preserved examples. Photograph these historical remnants while reflecting on Nauru's strategic importance during the Pacific War.
Evening
Quiet evening reflection
Enjoy dinner at your accommodation and spend the evening reviewing photos and journaling about the day's historical discoveries
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Maintain consistency in your base location
Do not enter unstable bunkers or confined military structures as they may be dangerous after 80 years of tropical weathering
Day 4 Budget: $80-110
5
Fishing & Marine Culture
Western Coast
Experience Nauru's fishing traditions with local fishermen and explore the island's relationship with the ocean.
Morning
Traditional fishing experience
Arrange to join local fishermen for an early morning fishing trip in the waters surrounding Nauru. Experience traditional fishing methods alongside modern techniques used by Nauruan fishermen. The waters around Nauru are exceptionally deep close to shore, creating excellent fishing conditions for tuna, wahoo, and other pelagic species. Learn about the importance of fishing to Nauruan culture and subsistence. The experience provides insight into daily island life and the ocean's central role in the community.
Arrange this experience at least two days in advance through your accommodation or local contacts
Lunch
Prepare and eat your morning catch at a local home or beachside cooking area
Afternoon
Coastal reef exploration and snorkeling
Explore the fringing reef that surrounds Nauru during low tide, observing tide pools, coral formations, and marine life visible from shore. Snorkel in protected areas where the reef creates calm conditions, seeing tropical fish species, sea cucumbers, and coral gardens. The western coast often provides calmer afternoon conditions. Learn to identify common fish species and understand the reef ecosystem that sustains the island's marine resources.
Evening
Seafood dinner
Enjoy a dinner featuring the day's fresh catch, prepared in traditional Nauruan style with coconut cream and island vegetables
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Continue using your base accommodation
Fishing trips depart very early, typically before dawn - prepare everything the night before and get adequate rest
Day 5 Budget: $95-125
6
Northern Districts & Community Engagement
Ijuw, Anabar, and Anibare Districts
Explore the northern districts, visit local communities, and engage with daily Nauruan life in residential areas.
Morning
Northern district community tour
Visit the northern districts of Ijuw and Anabar, observing residential areas and community life. Stop at local churches, which play a central role in Nauruan society, and observe the architectural blend of traditional and modern influences. Visit the small commercial areas where locals shop for daily necessities. Engage respectfully with community members, learning about contemporary challenges and daily routines on this isolated island nation. Observe traditional housing styles alongside modern structures.
Sunday mornings feature church services - plan accordingly and dress respectfully if attending
Lunch
A family-run eatery in the northern districts serving home-style cooking
Afternoon
Anibare Bay return visit
Return to Anibare Bay for additional beach time, having now gained familiarity with the island. Swim, snorkel, or simply relax under the palms. Use this time for reflection on your first week in Nauru and the unique experiences you've gathered. The bay's beauty deserves multiple visits, and the relaxed pace allows for unhurried enjoyment. Collect shells, wade in the shallows, or read a book in the shade.
Evening
Casual evening
Simple dinner at a local restaurant and early rest to prepare for the week ahead
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Maintain your base location
Nauruans are generally friendly but reserved - wait for invitations rather than imposing on private gatherings or homes
Day 6 Budget: $70-95
7
Rest Day & Moqua Caves
Southern Coast
A slower-paced day exploring the southern coastal caves and catching up on rest after your first week of exploration.
Morning
Moqua Caves exploration
Visit the Moqua Caves along the southern coast, formed by wave action in the coral limestone cliffs. These caves and grottos were historically used by Nauruans for shelter and storage. Explore the accessible cave entrances during low tide, observing the geological formations and listening to waves echo through the chambers. Some caves feature pools of crystal-clear water. The area provides excellent photography opportunities with dramatic lighting and rock formations. Respect any cultural significance these sites may hold.
Check tide times and visit during low tide for safest access to cave entrances
Lunch
A relaxed meal at your accommodation or nearby casual restaurant
Afternoon
Personal time and relaxation
Use the afternoon for personal activities - catch up on journaling, organize photos, rest in your accommodation, or take a leisurely walk along familiar coastal sections. Visit any shops you've discovered for souvenirs or supplies. This downtime is essential given Nauru's intense tropical heat and the limited entertainment options. Read, nap, or simply observe daily island life from a shaded spot. Recharge for the second week of exploration.
Evening
Sunset appreciation
Find a favorite western coast spot for sunset viewing, followed by a quiet dinner and early evening rest
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Remain at your base accommodation
Use this rest day to hand-wash clothes and allow them to dry in the tropical sun - laundry services are limited
Day 7 Budget: $60-85
8
Phosphate Heritage & Industrial History
Meneng District and Topside
Deep dive into Nauru's phosphate mining history, the industry that shaped the nation's economy and landscape.
Morning
Phosphate mining infrastructure tour
Explore the extensive phosphate mining infrastructure in Meneng District and Topside areas. Observe the massive rusted cantilever system that once transported phosphate from the inland plateau to the coast for shipping. Visit abandoned processing facilities, rail tracks, and mining equipment left in place after operations ceased. The scale of industrial operations on such a small island is remarkable. Learn about the environmental and economic impacts of phosphate mining on Nauru's development and current challenges.
A knowledgeable local guide can explain the technical operations and social history of the phosphate industry
Lunch
A restaurant in Meneng District serving filling meals for workers and locals
Afternoon
Coastal cantilever and loading facilities
Visit the coastal areas where the cantilever system meets the ocean, examining the loading facilities where phosphate was transferred to ships. These massive concrete and metal structures stand as monuments to Nauru's industrial past. Photograph the dramatic contrast between rusting machinery and tropical vegetation reclaiming the structures. Walk along the coast observing how the ocean has eroded these facilities over decades. Reflect on the boom-and-bust cycle that defined Nauru's 20th-century history.
Evening
Documentary evening
Return to accommodation for dinner and possibly watch documentaries about Nauru's history if available through your accommodation's internet connection
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Continue at your base location
The cantilever structures are unstable and dangerous - observe from safe distances and never climb on the equipment
Day 8 Budget: $75-100
9
Sports & Recreation Nauruan Style
Aiwo District and coastal areas
Experience Nauru's sporting culture, particularly Australian Rules Football, and participate in local recreational activities.
Morning
Linkbelt Oval and sports facilities
Visit Linkbelt Oval in Aiwo District, Nauru's primary sports venue and the only Australian Rules Football field in the country. Nauru has a passionate AFL culture despite its tiny population. If timing allows, watch local teams practice or play matches. Explore other recreational facilities and observe how sports unite the small community. Learn about Nauru's participation in regional sporting competitions and the importance of athletics in island culture. The oval also serves as a community gathering space.
Weekend mornings often feature matches or practice sessions - confirm schedules through locals
Lunch
A casual spot near the sports facilities serving quick meals and cold drinks
Afternoon
Beach activities and water recreation
Spend the afternoon at a favored beach location engaging in water-based recreation. Try your hand at traditional outrigger paddling if equipment is available, swim in the calm lagoon areas, or organize a beach volleyball game if other travelers or locals are interested. The afternoon heat is best spent in or near water. Practice snorkeling skills, work on your tan, or simply enjoy the therapeutic sound of waves on the reef. This active day balances cultural observation with physical activity.
Evening
Social evening
Seek out any local gatherings or events happening in the evening, or enjoy dinner at a restaurant popular with locals to observe social dynamics
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Remain at your base accommodation
Nauruans are enthusiastic about Australian Rules Football - showing interest in local teams is an excellent conversation starter
Day 9 Budget: $65-90
10
Western Coast & Sunset Points
Western coastal districts
Thoroughly explore the western coast, identifying the best sunset viewing locations and coastal features.
Morning
Western coastal walk
Walk or cycle extended sections of the western coastal road, stopping frequently to explore beach access points, rocky outcrops, and coastal formations. The western coast receives afternoon sun and offers different perspectives than the eastern shores. Observe how local families use coastal areas for recreation and fishing. Identify tide pools, interesting coral formations, and potential snorkeling spots. The western reef structure differs from eastern areas, providing varied marine environments to explore.
Lunch
A beachside picnic with provisions from shops in Yaren or Aiwo
Afternoon
Coastal photography and exploration
Continue exploring the western coast with focus on photography as afternoon light creates ideal conditions. Capture the contrast between turquoise waters and white coral rock, document interesting coastal vegetation, and photograph any wildlife encountered. Visit areas you may have passed quickly on earlier circuit drives. Take time to sit quietly at different points, observing the ocean and reflecting on your Nauru experience. The slower pace reveals details missed during faster tours.
Evening
Sunset viewing expedition
Position yourself at your identified best sunset location on the western coast, watching the sun sink into the Pacific, then enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Continue at your base location
The western coast can have stronger currents and waves - always assess conditions before entering the water
Day 10 Budget: $70-95
11
Cultural Immersion & Local Life
Various districts
Dedicate the day to deeper cultural engagement, learning about contemporary Nauruan life, challenges, and traditions.
Morning
Market and shopping areas
Visit the main commercial areas and any market facilities operating in Yaren or Aiwo. Observe what goods are imported, how locals shop for daily necessities, and the prices reflecting Nauru's isolation. Purchase local handicrafts if available, though traditional craft production is limited. Engage in conversations with shopkeepers about life on the island. Visit the post office to send postcards from one of the world's smallest nations. These mundane activities provide authentic cultural insight.
Lunch
A popular local restaurant frequented by Nauruan families
Afternoon
Cultural exchange and community observation
Spend the afternoon in community spaces observing daily life. Visit areas where locals gather - near churches, community centers, or coastal meeting spots. If you've made local connections, this is an opportunity to accept invitations for tea or conversation. Learn about contemporary issues facing Nauru, including climate change impacts, economic challenges, and cultural preservation efforts. Respect boundaries while showing genuine interest in Nauruan perspectives on their island's past, present, and future.
Evening
Traditional meal experience
If possible through connections made, share a traditional meal with a local family, or arrange a special traditional dinner through your accommodation
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Remain at your base accommodation
Small gifts from your home country make appreciated tokens of thanks if invited to someone's home
Day 11 Budget: $80-110
12
Final Beach Day & Reflection
Anibare Bay
Return to Anibare Bay for a final full beach day, reflecting on your two weeks in this unique island nation.
Morning
Anibare Bay morning swim and snorkel
Make a final visit to Anibare Bay, arriving early to enjoy the beach in morning light. Swim in the calm waters, snorkel along the reef sections you've come to know, and appreciate the beauty that makes this Nauru's premier beach. Reflect on how your perception of the island has evolved over two weeks. Collect any final shells or beach memories. Use this time for contemplation about the unique experience of spending extended time in one of the world's most isolated and least-visited countries.
Lunch
A final beachside picnic at Anibare Bay
Afternoon
Beach relaxation and final photography
Continue enjoying Anibare Bay throughout the afternoon. Take final photographs of the coconut palms, white sand, and turquoise waters. Wade in the shallows, lie in the shade, or walk the beach length one more time. This unhurried day allows proper goodbye to the location that likely became your favorite Nauru spot. Observe any final wildlife, appreciate the solitude, and mentally prepare for departure while savoring these last beach hours.
Evening
Farewell dinner
Return to Yaren for a special farewell dinner at the best restaurant you've discovered during your stay, celebrating your Nauru experience
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Final nights at your base accommodation
Take time to write thank-you notes or messages for locals who helped make your stay memorable
Day 12 Budget: $75-100
13
Final Explorations & Preparations
Yaren and surrounding areas
Visit any missed locations, make final purchases, and begin preparing for departure while soaking in last impressions.
Morning
Revisit favorite locations
Spend the morning revisiting your favorite discoveries from the past two weeks. Perhaps return to Command Ridge for final panoramic views, visit a preferred coastal spot, or walk through Buada Lagoon one more time. Take additional photographs of locations you want to remember clearly. Visit any areas you may have missed or wish to see again. This morning is about personal priorities and capturing final memories of locations that resonated most strongly with you during your stay.
Lunch
Return to your favorite restaurant discovered during your two weeks
Afternoon
Souvenir shopping and packing
Make final purchases of any souvenirs, local products, or gifts. Options are limited but may include handicrafts, postcards, or locally-produced items. Begin organizing and packing your belongings, ensuring all beach gear is cleaned and dried. Sort through collected items like shells or photographs. Confirm your departure arrangements, flight times, and airport transfer. Take a final walk around Yaren, saying quiet goodbyes to the places that became familiar over two weeks.
Evening
Final sunset and quiet evening
Watch your final Nauru sunset from a meaningful location, followed by a simple dinner and early rest before departure day
Where to Stay Tonight
Yaren District (Your established accommodation)
Final night at your base accommodation near airport
Confirm your flight departure time as schedules can occasionally change - check with your accommodation or airline contact
Day 13 Budget: $85-115
14
Departure & Farewell to Nauru
Yaren to Airport
Final morning on the island, airport transfer, and departure from one of the world's most unique travel destinations.
Morning
Final morning and checkout
Wake early for a final Nauru sunrise if your flight schedule allows. Complete packing and checkout procedures at your accommodation. Take a last walk around the immediate area, breathing in the tropical air and observing the morning routines of this small island nation. Say proper goodbyes to your hosts and any locals you've connected with during your stay. Reflect on the extraordinary privilege of spending two weeks in one of the world's least-visited countries, carrying memories few travelers will ever experience.
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or accommodation before departure
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Nauru International Airport, allowing extra time for the small terminal's procedures. Complete check-in and immigration formalities. The airport has minimal facilities, so arrive prepared. Board your flight, watching the tiny island shrink below as you depart. The aerial view provides final perspective on Nauru's compact size, the contrast between coastal areas and mined interior, and the vast Pacific isolation surrounding this remarkable nation. Carry forward your unique stories and experiences.
Arrive at airport at least 2 hours before international departure despite the small size
Evening
In transit
Reflect on your journey during your flight, reviewing photos and beginning to process this unique travel experience
Where to Stay Tonight
In transit or destination (Flight or connecting destination)
Departure day
Keep some Australian dollars for any final airport purchases or unexpected fees
Day 14 Budget: $70-95
Practical Information
Getting Around
Nauru has no public transportation system. The 19-kilometer coastal ring road circles the entire island and can be driven in 30-40 minutes. Rent a car, motorcycle, or bicycle through your accommodation, typically costing $30-60 per day for vehicles. Bicycles are viable given the flat coastal road and small distances. Walking is feasible for exploring specific areas but impractical for full island circuits in the tropical heat. Taxis exist but are limited and expensive. Most visitors arrange vehicle rental for their entire stay, providing freedom to explore at will.
Book Ahead
Book flights to Nauru well in advance as Nauru Airlines operates limited weekly services. Secure accommodation before arrival as options are extremely limited. Arrange airport transfers with your accommodation prior to arrival. Book fishing trips and guided tours at least 2-3 days in advance through your accommodation. No advance booking needed for beaches or historical sites as they're freely accessible.
Packing Essentials
Strong sun protection including high-SPF sunscreen, hat, and UV-protective clothing. Reef-safe snorkel gear. Sturdy walking shoes for coral pinnacles and rough terrain. Light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical heat and high humidity. Modest clothing respecting local culture. All toiletries and medications as selection is limited. Camera with extra memory cards and batteries. Cash in Australian dollars. Reusable water bottle. Basic first aid supplies. Insect repellent for evening use.
Total Budget
$1,120-1,540 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Reduce costs by staying in the most basic accommodation available ($40-50/night), preparing most meals from groceries purchased at local shops rather than eating at restaurants, using a bicycle instead of renting a vehicle ($10-15/day), skipping guided tours in favor of self-guided exploration, and bringing all snorkeling equipment rather than renting. Focus on free activities like beach time, coastal walks, and self-guided historical site visits. Budget approximately $50-70 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Nauru offers extremely limited luxury options given its size and isolation. Upgrade by booking the best available room at the island's primary hotel property, arranging private guided tours with knowledgeable locals for all historical and cultural sites, chartering private fishing expeditions, having all meals specially prepared, and arranging a rental vehicle with driver. Consider bringing specialty food items or beverages not available on island. Even with upgrades, expect rustic conditions compared to typical luxury destinations. Budget approximately $150-200 per day.
Family-Friendly
Nauru can work for families with older children who appreciate unique destinations and can handle limited entertainment options. Focus on beach activities at Anibare Bay, snorkeling in calm areas, exploring WWII sites that interest history-minded kids, and educational aspects of phosphate mining and island ecology. The small size means no long drives. Challenges include limited child-specific facilities, intense heat, and minimal organized activities. Pack extensive entertainment supplies, sun protection, and familiar snacks. Stay in accommodation with kitchen facilities to prepare familiar meals for picky eaters.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Yaren