Electricity

Electrical current is 240 Volts, 50Hz. The Australian three (or two) flat pin plug is standard. Electricity supply isn't stable, so visitors should expect frequent power cuts.

Language

The native language is Nauruan, but English is widely spoken on the island and is used for commercial and governmental purposes.

Money

The only ATM on the island is located at the Menen Hotel, and it's often out of cash. Credit cards are not accepted; visitors to take enough Australian dollars in cash to cover their trip.

Tipping

Tipping isn't generally expected in Nauru.

Health

Travellers are recommended to get hepatitis A and B vaccinations, a typhoid vaccination and a rabies vaccination if they plan on spending a lot of time outdoors, and may be at risk of animal bites. They are also advised to be up to date with their MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and tetanus-diptheria vaccinations.

There have been outbreaks of dengue fever in the past, so visitors are advised to take precautions against insect bites. Visitors should be careful about food and drink consumption. Buying food and water from the main local stores and restaurants is the best way to prevent food poisoning.

Medical facilities in Nauru are very basic. Healthcare providers may require upfront payment and travellers may need medical evacuation to Australia by air ambulance. Travellers should make sure they get travel insurance that includes hospital stays and coverage for medical evacuation. If visitors require any medication on their travels, it's best to bring it with them in the original packaging, with a signed and dated letter from their doctor detailing exactly what it is and why they need it.

Safety

Though the crime rate is low, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, may occur. Travellers should ensure that their belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Tourist facilities are extremely limited, so visitors should plan adequately to minimise safety risks. Lifeguards don't usually supervise beaches; swimmers should be aware that tidal changes can cause powerful currents, and riptides are common. Travellers should consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas.

Those who plan on doing adventure sports such as diving should bear in mind that tour operators may not adhere to international standards. It's best to choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance. Travellers should ensure that their travel insurance covers the recreational activities they choose.

During the rainy season from November to May, there's a risk of strong winds, sea swells and tropical cyclones. Visitors should monitor regional and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation and the Fiji Meteorological Service, and check local newspapers and radio.

Local customs

The people of Nauru have family-based values, bolstered by a strong Christian ethos, and visitors should not be surprised to hear prayers at most public gatherings. Traditionally a matrilineal society, women are greatly respected and children are often cared for by the larger community. Because of the political and social connections to Australia, Nauru's social etiquette has been increasingly influenced by Australian norms, meaning western tourists will find basic social interaction quite familiar.

Doing business

A shirt and trousers or skirt will do in many situations, though more formal wear is needed for very special occasions; English is widely spoken.

Local negotiators prioritise relationship building before diving into specifics. They focus on hospitality and value guests, often starting meetings with lengthy introductions and social conversations.

Foreigners should generally present proposals indirectly and listen carefully to underlying interests. Small gifts can be offered as a token of respect, but extravagance should be avoided. Office hours are generally 8am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Duty free

Travellers to Nauru age 18 and older may import up to 200 cigarettes and 500g of tobacco; those 21 and older may import two litres of wine or spirit. Firearms, explosives, drugs, weapons and pornographic materials are prohibited.

Communications

The international access code is +674.

Passport & Visa

All foreign passengers to Nauru must hold confirmed return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Travellers also need proof of hotel bookings or sponsorship from a resident of Nauru. It's highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Nauru. A visa is required.

Useful contacts

111 (ambulance), 112 (fire), 110 (police)

Embassies / consulates in other countries

Embassy of Nauru, Washington DC, United States: (212) 937 0074

Nauruan Consulate, London, United Kingdom: +44 1732 746061

Consulate General of the Republic of Nauru, Brisbane, Australia: +61 7 3220 3040

Embassies / consulates in Nauru

US Embassy, Suva, Fiji (also responsible for Naura): +67 9331 4466

Australian High Commission, Aiwo District, Naura: +67 4557 3380