Attraction in Nauru
Central Plateau (Topside)
Nauru's central plateau, known locally as Topside, is an expansive inland area shaped almost entirely by a century of phosphate extraction, leaving behind a dramatic landscape of coral pinnacles, excavated pits, and rocky outcrops that stretch across roughly 80 per cent of the island's land area. The surreal terrain offers a stark visual record of the phosphate boom that once made Nauru one of the wealthiest nations per capita in the world. Walking or driving through the plateau provides a sobering and visually arresting encounter with the island's industrial history.
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Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Nauru
Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Nauru page at Yoogo.
Nauru uses the Australian dollar (AUD) for all transactions. Card acceptance is extremely limited and there are no ATMs on the island, so travellers should bring sufficient Australian dollars in cash before arriving.
Nauru has a very low crime rate and is generally considered a safe destination where normal precautions suffice. The main risks are environmental rather than social, including strong ocean currents at beaches, sharp coral, and the absence of formal lifeguard services.
Nauru is a small island approximately 21 square kilometres in area, and the main sealed road runs around the perimeter and can be driven in under an hour. Taxis and hire cars are available, and many visitors walk or cycle given the compact size of the island.
The dry season from May to November, particularly June through September, offers the most comfortable conditions with lower humidity and reduced rainfall. The wet season from December to April brings heavy rainfall, sometimes exceeding 300 mm per month, which can limit outdoor activities.
Nauruan is the official language and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. English is widely understood and used for government, commerce, and most tourist interactions, so English-speaking visitors will encounter few communication barriers.
The CDC recommends that travellers be up to date on routine vaccinations and consider additional vaccines for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid fever before visiting Nauru. Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled water should be used throughout the visit.
Tipping is not a common practice in Nauru and is not expected at restaurants or for services. A sincere expression of thanks is the customary way to acknowledge good service, and locals may graciously decline a monetary tip if offered.
Digicel is the sole consumer mobile operator on the island and provides 4G coverage across most of Nauru's coastal areas. Travellers can purchase a local Digicel SIM card on arrival or set up an eSIM through providers such as Airalo before departure, ensuring connectivity from the moment they land.
Modesty in dress is appreciated, particularly away from the beach, and visitors should cover shoulders and knees in villages and public areas. Food sharing is central to Nauruan culture, and accepting food offered by a host is considered polite. Christianity plays a significant role in daily life, and respectful behaviour around churches and community gatherings reflects well on visitors.