Practical Tips & Hacks: Nauru

Money-Saving Strategies

Nauru is an expensive destination. Employ these strategies to manage your budget.

Discount cards and passes

No discount cards or passes exist for Nauru. Attractions generally do not have entry fees.

Happy hours and dining deals

Happy hours and dining deals are not common in Nauru's limited dining scene.
Hotels may occasionally offer promotions, but do not rely on finding widespread discounts.

Free activities and attractions

Most of Nauru's attractions are natural or historical sites with no entry fees.
These include Command Ridge, Buada Lagoon, Anibare Bay, and the unique landscape of the Pinnacles.
Walking or cycling the ring road is also a free way to explore.

Transportation savings

Walk or cycle for short distances to save on taxi fares.
If you rent a car, share costs with travel companions.
Always negotiate taxi fares upfront to avoid surprises.
Consider if a full day of car rental is more cost-effective than multiple taxi trips.

Accommodation alternatives

Very few accommodation alternatives exist beyond the main hotels.

Limited options

Accommodation options are scarce.
Main hotels are the main choice.
No widespread alternatives.

Long-stay rates

Inquiring about long-stay rates for hotel rooms is possible.
Consider this for extended visits.
Might result in a slight discount.

Booking ahead

Book hotel rooms far in advance.
Rooms fill quickly due to limited options.

Direct contact

Contact hotels directly for booking.
Official websites may be limited or outdated.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficiency helps you make the most of your time in Nauru.

Skip-the-line options

Not relevant in Nauru.
No lines or major attractions with ticketing systems.
You will not experience tourist crowds.

Efficient routing suggestions

The island's small size and single ring road make routing simple.
A single drive around the island covers most coastal points.
You can plan stops at your points of interest along this loop.

Best and worst times for popular attractions

Best times for outdoor exploration are early morning or late afternoon.
This avoids the midday heat and offers better light for photography.
Crowds are never an issue; you will have sites to yourself.

Pre-booking recommendations

Pre-book flights and accommodation as far in advance as possible.
This is due to extreme scarcity and high demand, especially for hotels.

Local Insights

Tailor your approach based on your travel style.

Common tourist mistakes and how to avoid them

Nauru is very expensive. Bring enough AUD cash for your entire trip.
Pre-book accommodation and flights. This is necessary for guaranteed entry and a place to stay.
Nauru is unique, shaped by its mining history, and is not a resort destination.
Dress modestly and be respectful in all interactions.

Unofficial rules and social norms

Avoid walking alone on unlit inland tracks at night.
Be aware of stray dogs, especially when walking or cycling.
Always ask for permission before entering private land or taking photos of people.
Public displays of affection are not common and may be seen as inappropriate.

Local customs that visitors should know

Things move slowly in Nauru. Patience is a helpful quality to bring.
Nauru is a close-knit community. You may attract friendly curiosity from locals.
Many arrangements, even for services, can be informal.
Be prepared for flexible schedules.

Phrases that impress locals

Learning a few basic Nauruan phrases shows respect and can lead to more positive interactions.
"Aba" (Hello)
"Tubwa" (Thank you)
"Ekamawir omo" (How are you?)

Important Note on Currency

Bring plenty of Australian Dollars in small denominations. This aids with daily purchases and avoids issues with limited change.

Solo, Family & Group-Specific Advice

Tailor your approach based on your travel style.

Solo Traveler

Nauru is generally very safe for solo travelers. Its low crime rate offers peace of mind. Social opportunities are mainly found at the Menen Hotel bar or by engaging in conversations with locals you meet through informal means.

Managing Group Logistics

For groups, securing multiple hotel rooms is very challenging due to limited supply. Book far in advance, contacting hotels directly. Consider reserving a large taxi for group transport or renting the few available cars.

Accessibility Considerations

Nauru is not an accessible destination for travelers with significant mobility impairments. Research thoroughly and plan for extensive personal assistance if required. The lack of infrastructure presents considerable challenges.

Family-friendly adaptations and kid-specific tips

Activities and Exploration

The beach at Anibare Bay is good for children.
The island is small enough to explore without long journeys.
This helps with children's attention spans.

Supplies and Safety

Bring all necessary baby/child supplies (diapers, formula, specific foods, medications).
These are difficult to find or very expensive locally.
Supervise children closely, especially near water or on roads without sidewalks.

For Families

For families, pack plenty of entertainment for children for downtime, as organized activities are scarce.

Practical Tips & Hacks