Nauru
Oceania • NRU
Last updated: September 30, 2026
Nauru is the world's smallest island nation and a unique off-the-beaten-path destination known for its rugged limestone landscapes and tranquil Pacific atmosphere. It offers a rare glimpse into a remote island lifestyle, perfect for travelers seeking solitude and historical curiosity far from mass tourism.
Visa Requirements
Most visitors require a visa to enter Nauru; applications must be submitted to the Nauruan immigration authorities well in advance of travel.
Typically Required Documents
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Proof of accommodation in Nauru
- Sponsorship letter from a Nauruan resident or organization
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Anibare Bay: A beautiful, sweeping crescent-shaped beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters.
Command Ridge: The highest point on the island, featuring historical remnants of Japanese bunkers and artifacts from World War II.
Buada Lagoon: A scenic, freshwater inland lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation that serves as the island's most picturesque spot.
Moqua Well: A fascinating underground lake hidden within a limestone cave system that provides a glimpse into the island's unique geology.
Japanese WWII Relics: Scattered across the island, these rusting guns and bunkers serve as poignant reminders of Nauru's strategic importance during the war.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when outside of the beach area, as Nauru is a conservative island nation.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals or their private property.
Show respect for elders, as they are held in high regard within Nauruan society.
Avoid public displays of affection, as this is generally considered inappropriate in public spaces.
Remove your shoes before entering a private residence to show politeness and respect for the host.
Safety Tips
Stay on well-marked paths when hiking near the pinnacles, as the terrain is extremely sharp and difficult to navigate.
Drink only bottled or treated water, as local tap water may not always be safe for consumption.
Be cautious when swimming, as currents around the reef can be strong and unpredictable.
Keep your belongings secure and do not leave valuables unattended in public areas or rented vehicles.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation, as medical facilities on the island are basic.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers coming from countries with risk of yellow fever.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination entry requirements reported.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: Canada_Travel
Vaccination is recommended for all travelers due to the risk of hepatitis B.
View sourceMeasles
Source: Canada_Travel
Ensure measles vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: Canada_Travel
Vaccination is recommended due to the risk of hepatitis A in Nauru.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: Canada_Travel
Proof of vaccination is not required to enter Nauru.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Nauru.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Nauru. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations such as MMR, Tdap, and polio are up to date for general health protection.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccination
Source: Canada_Travel
Before traveling to areas where hepatitis B is present.
Hepatitis B is a liver disease transmitted through blood and body fluids.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccination
Source: Canada_Travel
Before traveling to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Hepatitis A is a liver disease transmitted through contaminated food or water.
View sourceMeasles vaccination
Source: Canada_Travel
Before traveling to ensure protection against measles.
Measles is a serious viral infection that spreads easily.
View sourceTyphoid vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Typhoid fever vaccines licensed in the U.S.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Nauru. If rabies exposures occur while in Nauru, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.
Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis. Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceInsect and tick bite precautions
Source: UK_FCDO
Recommended to prevent insect and tick-borne diseases in Nauru.
Take measures to avoid insect and tick bites.
View sourceMalaria chemoprophylaxis
Source: ECDC
Recommended for travelers to areas with malaria risk to prevent infection.
Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate medication and dosage.
View sourceFood and water safety practices
Source: CDC
To minimize the risk of food-borne and water-borne illnesses.
Boil or treat water, avoid ice, and consume fully cooked foods.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all travelers are up to date with routine vaccines before traveling to Nauru.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing to protect against mosquito-borne and other vector-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Travelers should practice strict food and water safety measures to prevent gastrointestinal illness.
Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid uncooked foods.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Essential to avoid diarrheal diseases and foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled or boiled water; eat only cooked food served hot.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting small cities or rural areas where exposure to contaminated food and water is possible.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered if travelers might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo, or have medical procedures performed.
View source