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A Week in the World's Smallest Island Nation

Discovering Nauru's Hidden Stories and Pacific Beauty

Trip Overview

Nauru, the world's third-smallest country, offers an intimate Pacific island experience unlike any other. This week-long itinerary balances relaxation with exploration, taking you through WWII history, phosphate mining heritage, coastal beauty, and authentic Nauruan culture. With no traditional tourist infrastructure, you'll experience genuine island life, snorkel pristine reefs, explore abandoned industrial sites, and connect with one of the world's smallest communities. The pace is deliberately relaxed, matching the island's rhythm, with time built in for unexpected discoveries and local interactions. This is raw, unfiltered Pacific travel for those seeking something truly different.

Pace
Relaxed
Daily Budget
$80-120 per day
Best Seasons
May to October (dry season with calmer seas)
Ideal For
Adventure travelers, History enthusiasts, Off-the-beaten-path explorers, Pacific culture seekers, Solo travelers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Island Orientation

Yaren District (de facto capital)
Settle into island life with a gentle introduction to Nauru's compact geography and warm community atmosphere.
Morning
Arrival and accommodation check-in
Arrive at Nauru International Airport, one of the world's smallest international airports. Complete immigration formalities and arrange local transportation. Check into your accommodation and take time to adjust to the tropical climate. Walk around the immediate area to get your bearings on this 21-square-kilometer island nation.
2-3 hours $0
Confirm accommodation well in advance as options are extremely limited
Lunch
A local eatery near your accommodation serving Pacific-style meals
Pacific Islander with Chinese influences Budget
Afternoon
Coastal walk and orientation drive
Take a leisurely walk along the coastal road to understand the island's circular layout. The entire ring road is approximately 19 kilometers and hugs the coastline. Observe daily life, wave to locals, and stop at small shops. Arrange a vehicle rental or driver for the week, essential for exploring the island efficiently.
3-4 hours $15-25
Evening
Sunset viewing and casual dinner
Find a coastal spot on the western side of the island to watch the sunset over the Pacific, then enjoy dinner at a casual dining spot serving fresh fish

Where to Stay Tonight

Aiwo District or near Ewa Lodge (One of the island's limited guesthouses or hotel rooms)

Central location provides easy access to both coastal areas and inland attractions

The Australian dollar is the official currency, so bring cash as ATMs are limited and credit cards rarely accepted
Day 1 Budget: $90-110
2

WWII History & Coastal Exploration

Around the island
Discover Nauru's significant WWII heritage and explore the dramatic coastal landscape shaped by coral and history.
Morning
WWII relics exploration
Visit the Japanese WWII bunkers, gun emplacements, and command posts scattered around the island, particularly in the Anibare Bay area. Nauru was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942-1945, and numerous concrete structures remain. Explore the coastal defense positions and imagine the strategic importance of this tiny island during the Pacific War.
3 hours $0
Lunch
A small cafe or takeaway spot in Yaren serving simple meals
Local Pacific fare Budget
Afternoon
Anibare Bay swimming and relaxation
Spend the afternoon at Anibare Bay, Nauru's most beautiful beach on the east coast. The white sand beach and turquoise waters offer excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The bay is protected by a reef, creating calm conditions. Bring your own snorkel gear as rentals are not available. Look for tropical fish in the shallow reef areas.
4 hours $0
Evening
Dinner and local interaction
Dine at a restaurant near your accommodation and strike up conversations with locals who are typically very welcoming to the few visitors

Where to Stay Tonight

Same as Day 1 (Continue at your established accommodation)

No need to move on such a small island

Bring all beach supplies including towels, snorkel gear, and sun protection as there are no facilities or vendors at the beaches
Day 2 Budget: $85-105
3

Phosphate Mining Heritage

Central Plateau (Topside)
Explore the otherworldly landscape created by a century of phosphate mining that brought wealth and environmental transformation to Nauru.
Morning
Topside pinnacles exploration
Drive or hike into the central plateau area known as Topside to witness the dramatic limestone pinnacles left behind by phosphate mining. This lunar-like landscape of sharp coral formations stretches across much of the island's interior. The pinnacles, some reaching 10-15 meters high, create an eerie, maze-like environment. Walk carefully among these formations to understand the scale of mining operations.
3 hours $0
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a viewpoint overlooking the pinnacles
Self-catered Budget
Afternoon
Buada Lagoon visit
Visit Buada Lagoon, a freshwater lake in the interior surrounded by coconut palms and tropical vegetation. This is one of the few areas that escaped phosphate mining and represents what the island once looked like. The lagoon provides a stark contrast to the mined areas. Walk around the perimeter, observe birdlife, and enjoy the shade of the palms.
2-3 hours $0
Evening
Relaxed evening and dinner
Return to your accommodation area for a simple dinner and early rest after exploring the rugged interior

Where to Stay Tonight

Same as previous nights (Continue at your established accommodation)

Consistency allows you to settle into island rhythms

Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes when exploring Topside as the sharp coral limestone can easily cut through thin footwear
Day 3 Budget: $80-95
4

Cultural Immersion & Community

Various districts
Engage with Nauruan culture, visit community spaces, and learn about contemporary life on the island.
Morning
Visit local government area and parliament
Explore the Yaren District where government buildings are located. While tours aren't formally organized, the compact nature of government facilities reflects Nauru's intimate scale. Visit the general area around the parliament house and government offices. If timing permits, you might observe parliamentary proceedings. Visit nearby community centers to learn about current island initiatives and challenges.
2-3 hours $0
Lunch
A Chinese-run restaurant serving combination plates popular with locals
Chinese-Pacific fusion Budget
Afternoon
Moqua Well and traditional sites
Visit Moqua Well, one of the few freshwater sources historically available on the island. Learn about traditional Nauruan water management and survival techniques. Explore nearby areas where traditional practices are still remembered. If possible, connect with local guides who can share oral histories about pre-contact Nauruan life and the twelve original tribes.
3 hours $20-30
Ask at your accommodation about connecting with local cultural guides
Evening
Community sports or social gathering
Attend an Australian rules football match or community event if one is scheduled, as sport is central to Nauruan social life

Where to Stay Tonight

Same as previous nights (Continue at your established accommodation)

Maintaining your base simplifies logistics

Nauruans are passionate about Australian rules football and weightlifting; showing interest in these sports is a great conversation starter
Day 4 Budget: $90-110
5

Marine Exploration & Snorkeling

Various coastal points
Dedicate the day to exploring Nauru's underwater world and pristine marine environments around the island's fringing reef.
Morning
Snorkeling at multiple reef sites
Start early to snorkel at different points along the reef that encircles the island. The western coast typically offers calmer conditions. Look for colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. The reef drops off dramatically in many areas, creating excellent visibility. Move between sites by vehicle to find the best conditions based on wind and current.
4 hours $0
Lunch
A casual spot serving fresh fish and chips or grilled seafood
Seafood Budget
Afternoon
Coastal rock pool exploration
Explore the tidal rock pools along the rocky coastline during low tide. These pools teem with small marine life including colorful fish, sea cucumbers, starfish, and crabs. The jagged coral coastline creates numerous pools perfect for observation. Be extremely careful of sharp coral and strong waves. Photograph the marine life but leave everything undisturbed.
2-3 hours $0
Evening
Seafood dinner and stargazing
Enjoy fresh fish for dinner, then head to a dark coastal area for spectacular stargazing with minimal light pollution

Where to Stay Tonight

Same as previous nights (Continue at your established accommodation)

No need to relocate on such a compact island

Check tide times before planning rock pool exploration; low tide reveals the most marine life and safest conditions
Day 5 Budget: $85-100
6

Industrial Heritage & Island Circuit

Around the island
Complete a full island circuit examining the abandoned phosphate infrastructure and understanding Nauru's economic history.
Morning
Phosphate cantilever and loading facilities
Visit the impressive phosphate loading cantilevers that extend from the shore into the ocean. These massive structures were used to load phosphate onto ships anchored offshore. Though no longer operational, they remain as monuments to the industry that defined modern Nauru. Explore the abandoned processing facilities, rail lines, and equipment scattered around the coastal areas.
3 hours $0
Lunch
A simple restaurant or takeaway in Aiwo District
Mixed Asian-Pacific Budget
Afternoon
Complete island circuit drive with stops
Drive the complete 19-kilometer ring road, stopping at points of interest missed earlier in the week. Visit the small port area, observe the few remaining operational facilities, and stop at scenic viewpoints. Take photos of the dramatic contrast between the narrow coastal strip and the rugged interior. Wave to locals and stop at small shops to purchase any souvenirs.
3-4 hours $10-15
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell meal at the best dining option available, reflecting on your unique week in this remarkable island nation

Where to Stay Tonight

Same as previous nights (Continue at your established accommodation)

Final night before departure

The abandoned industrial equipment makes for striking photography, especially in late afternoon light
Day 6 Budget: $90-105
7

Departure & Final Reflections

Yaren District and Airport
A relaxed final morning before departure, with time for last-minute exploration and souvenir shopping.
Morning
Final beach visit or shopping
Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final swim at your favorite beach discovered during the week, or visit small shops for any last-minute purchases. Nauru has limited souvenir options, but you might find locally made handicrafts or phosphate rock samples. Pack your belongings and check out of your accommodation with plenty of time before your flight.
2-3 hours $10-20
Lunch
Light meal near the airport or packed lunch depending on flight time
Simple fare Budget
Afternoon
Airport departure
Arrive at Nauru International Airport at least 90 minutes before your flight. The small airport processes passengers quickly, but international protocols still apply. Reflect on your unique experience visiting one of the world's least-visited countries. With only one or two flights per week, your departure marks the end of a truly exclusive travel experience.
2-3 hours $0
Reconfirm flight times as schedules can change
Evening
Departure flight
Board your flight with memories of an extraordinary destination few travelers ever experience

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

End of itinerary

Flights typically depart in the evening or overnight, so you'll have most of the day to enjoy the island
Day 7 Budget: $60-80

Practical Information

Getting Around

Nauru has no public transportation system. Rental vehicles are available but limited; book in advance through your accommodation. Many visitors arrange a local driver for the week, which typically costs $40-60 per day and provides valuable local insights. The island's 19-kilometer ring road is easily navigable, though interior roads can be rough. Walking is feasible for short distances along the coast, but the tropical heat makes a vehicle essential for efficient exploration. Bicycles can be used but are rarely available for rent.

Book Ahead

Accommodation must be booked well in advance as options are extremely limited. Confirm flights early as Nauru Airlines operates only 1-2 flights weekly. No other bookings are typically necessary as formal tourist attractions don't exist. Consider arranging a local guide or driver before arrival through your accommodation.

Packing Essentials

Australian dollars in cash, sun protection (SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses), sturdy walking shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, personal snorkel gear, insect repellent, all medications and toiletries (limited shopping available), modest clothing respecting local culture, waterproof phone case, reusable water bottle, basic first aid kit

Total Budget

$600-750 for the week (excluding international flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Minimize costs by bringing groceries from Australia or Fiji on your inbound flight, as imported food is expensive. Self-cater most meals using basic cooking facilities. Walk more to reduce vehicle rental costs. Camp informally if you can arrange permission with locals, though this is culturally unusual. Bring all your own snorkel gear, beach supplies, and entertainment. The main attractions are free, so accommodation and food are your primary expenses.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at Ewa Lodge, the island's primary accommodation facility with the most amenities. Hire a private driver-guide for the entire week to provide cultural context and handle all logistics. Arrange fishing charters if available through local connections. Bring premium food items and beverages from Australia. Consider chartering a boat for reef exploration if operators can be found. Arrange private cultural presentations with local historians or community leaders through advance contacts.

Family-Friendly

Nauru can work for families with older children who appreciate unique experiences and can handle limited entertainment options. Focus on beach days at Anibare Bay, snorkeling in calm areas, and exploring the lunar-like pinnacles. Bring all entertainment items for children as there are no toy shops or activity centers. The small island size means short travel times. Pack extra sun protection and first aid supplies. Consider the limited medical facilities when traveling with young children.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Nauru

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Nauru

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Nauru

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Nauru

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