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How to Get to Nauru

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Nauru International Airport (INU) is the sole airport serving the country. It is located in the Yaren District, making it the main gateway for all foreign visitors.

Information

  • Airport: Nauru International Airport (INU).
  • Airline: Nauru Airlines (formerly Our Airline) is the national carrier.
  • Typical Routes: Connects to Brisbane (BNE), Majuro (MAJ), Tarawa (TRW), Pohnpei (PNI).

Flight Details

There are no flights straight to Nauru from major global hubs outside of the Pacific region and Australia. Travelers must connect through Brisbane, Australia, or other Pacific hubs.

Booking & Pricing

  • Flight timetables are consistent year-round, but how often it happens is limited (1-2 flights/week on some routes).
  • Prices for flights to Nauru are consistently high owing to scarce competition.
  • Booking well in advance is highly recommended to secure seats and manage costs.

Arrival Facilities

Nauru International Airport is small with basic facilities. You will find immigration, customs, plus a tiny baggage claim. The process is quick due to low passenger volumes.

Departure Facilities

The departure area possesses a small check-in counter, basic lounge, and a duty-free shop with limited offerings. Do not expect extensive dining or retail outlets.

Airport Transfers

Taxis are available outside the airport terminal. Fares are often fixed or negotiable. Most hotels can arrange transfers. Walking is not recommended having luggage.

Flight Resources

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Important Notes

  • Reconfirm flight details with Nauru Airlines a couple of days prior to your departure.
  • Be aware of baggage weight restrictions, especially for smaller aircraft.
  • It is advisable to eat before showing up at the airport or bring your own snacks.
  • Prepare for very rudimentary amenities at the airport.

SIM Card & Data

Local SIM

Local SIMS are for sale from the state-owned provider, Digicel Nauru. Purchase one upon arrival at the airport or main Digicel office.

Data Cost

Data can be expensive and connection speeds may vary. A Local mobile sim are helpful for local calls and data access.

ESIM Alternative

Consider an ESIM from Airalo if your cell phone supports it, for convenience and potentially better rates.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving Requirements

A valid national driving license is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended in conjunction with your national license. You must be of legal driving age, generally 21 years or older.

Licensing

  • Valid national driving license.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
  • Minimum driving age is generally 21 years or older.

Rental Availability

Car rental options are extremely limited. The main source is usually the Menen Hotel, that might have a few vehicles available for rent. Some local individuals might also offer their vehicles for hire informally.

Where to Find

  • The Menen Hotel usually has a few vehicles available for rent.
  • Local individuals might offer informal vehicle hire.
  • Cost: Expect to pay AUD 100-150 per day, plus fuel.

Road Conditions

Nauru has a main sealed road, the Island Ring Road, circling the entire island (approximately 19 km). Roads leading inland, specifically to the former phosphate mining areas ("Topside"), are often unsealed, rough, and challenging to navigate.

Driving Conditions

  • The Island Ring Road is generally in fair condition.
  • Inland roads ("Topside") require a strong vehicle like a 4x4.
  • These inland tracks become very muddy and difficult after rain.

Driving Safety

Driving is on the left-the right side of the road in Nauru. Speed limits are low, often 40-60 km/h, due to the island's small size and the presence of pedestrians and wildlife.

Safety Tips

  • Drive slowly and cautiously, especially in populated areas.
  • There is no public lighting outside central areas, making driving at night difficult.
  • Consider avoiding driving inland after dark due to unlit obstacles.

Unsupported Transport

  • Nauru does not have a train system.
  • No long-distance bus services exist.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are generally unavailable.
  • No formal bicycle sharing programs exist.
  • No ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) operate.
  • No unique vehicles (tuk-tuks, jeepneys) for tourist transport.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Information

Sea and river arrivals are not standard ways of getting around for tourists to Nauru. The island's isolation means sea travel is mainly for cargo.

Points

  • No regular passenger ferry services operate to or from Nauru.
  • Nauru is not a regular cruise ship destination because of restricted port infrastructure.
  • Occasional expedition cruise ships may visit, tendering passengers ashore, but this is rare.

River Transportation

Nauru is a small island with no navigable rivers. Therefore, river transportation options do not apply for travel.

Not Applicable

  • Nauru is a small island nation.
  • There are no navigable rivers on the island.
  • River transportation options do not exist here.

Immigration Procedures

For rare instances of sea arrivals (e.g., private yacht, expedition cruise), immigration and customs are handled at the main port area in Aiwo District. Procedures are similar to the airport processes.

Land Connections

Land transportation, like taxis or limited rental cars, is available from the main port area for arrivals by sea. You'd arrange these amenities in advance or upon arrival.

Private Vessels

Private yachts may visit, but international clearance procedures must be followed. Check with Nauruan authorities for specific entry requirements for private vessels.

Departure Information

Departure Checklist

As of recent information, no specific departure taxes or exit fees are levied directly on passengers. Any applicable fees are typically included in your air ticket price.

Arrive at Nauru International Airport (INU) at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. Manual check-in and limited staff could cause longer waits. Standard airline baggage allowances apply. Security checks are present but typically less extensive. Have your passport and boarding pass ready for exit stamp. Reconfirm your flight details with Nauru Airlines a couple of days before you depart.

How to Get to Nauru. Flights, Transportation, Airlines