Welcome to Nauru 😊

Quick Facts About Nauru

Money and Finances

The currency of Nauru is the Australian dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 dollars. Notes are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 dollars.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in Nauru, but they are limited in number and may not always be reliable. It is advised to carry enough cash in hand when traveling to the country and to inquire about the availability of ATMs upon arrival.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Nauru, and it is recommended to carry cash instead. Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX may only be accepted in major hotels and restaurants, and it is best to confirm prior to making a purchase.

Internet and Phones

Nauru has limited internet access with slow speeds for uploads and downloads. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Digicel is the only telco company in Nauru. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is high due to the limited competition. The sim compatibility can be an issue if you have a phone from a different region.

Dialling to Nauru

To call Nauru from another country, dial your country's exit code followed by 674 (Nauru's country code). There are no area codes used when dialling within Nauru.

Transport Around Nauru

Air Travel

Nauru has one international airport, Nauru International Airport, which is located in the southwest of the island and serves flights to Fiji, Nadi, and Brisbane, Australia.

Train Travel

Nauru does not have an inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Nauru does not have a metro system.

Buses

Nauru has a limited bus network operated by Nauru Phosphate Corporation. The bus fare is generally less than AUD 1 and the journey time is between 20-30 minutes depending on the destination.

Rideshare

There are no rideshare companies currently operating in Nauru.

Driving by Car

Driving is relatively easy in Nauru as the island is small and has few roads. The maximum speed limit is 40 km/h (25 mph) and the country uses left-hand drive. However, it's worth noting that there is a lot of mining activity on the island which can make some of the roads very rough and difficult to navigate.

Local Customs

In Nauru, tipping is not a common practice. Locals usually greet each other with a handshake and occasionally a hug or kiss on the cheek. It is polite to address people using their formal title such as Mr. or Mrs. when speaking to strangers. Men and women dress modestly, and women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees. It is also polite to remove your shoes before entering a home or religious establishment.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health system in Nauru is limited, with limited resources and medical professionals. There are no private hospitals in the country, so all medical care is provided by the government-run hospital. Health insurance is not compulsory, but it is recommended for travelers. The approximate cost for a visit to the doctor is around $30.

COVID Situation

Nauru has had no confirmed cases of COVID-19, as the government has implemented strict measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Travelers entering the country are required to undergo quarantine and testing before and after arrival.

Common Health Risks

The main health risks in Nauru include mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya, as well as food and water-borne illnesses such as diarrhea and typhoid fever. Travelers should take precautions such as wearing mosquito repellent and only drinking bottled or boiled water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is legal in Nauru for adults over the age of 18. However, public intoxication is a criminal offense and can result in fines or imprisonment. There are also restrictions on purchasing alcohol during certain times of the day.

Recreational Drugs

The use and possession of recreational drugs, including cannabis, is illegal in Nauru. Those found guilty of drug offenses can face lengthy prison sentences and possibly even the death penalty.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no specific laws in Nauru prohibiting pre-marital relationships, but the country does follow traditional Pacific Islander customs and values. As such, pre-marital sex may be frowned upon by some members of the community.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Nauru and is punishable by imprisonment. Same-sex marriage is also not recognized by the government. LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination and harassment in the country.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms are illegal in Nauru, except for those held by authorized law enforcement and security personnel. The penalties for possession of firearms without a license include hefty fines and imprisonment.