Nauru Travel Transport Guide: Flight Connections, Island Roads, and Left-Hand Driving Rules
On an island with just one or two international flights per week, transport transfers and car hire arrangements can make or break your trip—book well in advance and allow buffer time for delays.
Getting There
Nauru’s gateway is Nauru International Airport (INU), operated by Nauru Airlines, with main connections to Brisbane (Australia), Nadi (Fiji), as well as Tarawa (Kiribati) and Majuro (Marshall Islands). Flights are very infrequent, typically just one or two per week, with long layovers. Book months ahead and prepare backup accommodation for possible delays.
Getting Around the Island
- Ring Road: At around 19–20 km long, this is the only major road, linking all key areas. You can walk, cycle, or drive around the island.
- Left-Hand Driving: Nauru follows British-style left-side traffic. Drive carefully, especially when meeting vehicles or navigating roundabouts.
- Buses and Taxis: There are no fixed bus routes, and taxis are scarce. Most travelers rely on car hire, private transfers, or hotel shuttles.
- Port: The deep-water port near Aiwo serves fishing boats and cargo, but is generally not open to tourists.
Airport Transfers and Car Hire Tips
Nauru International Airport is close to accommodations in the Yaren area, but there are no fixed taxi stands. Always arrange pickup with your hotel before arrival. Car hire is usually charged by half-day or full-day blocks, with negotiable prices. Confirm in advance whether fuel and waiting time are included. Since the island has just one ring road, getting around is straightforward, but lighting is limited at night and pedestrians often walk along the roadside—drive slowly. If renting a car, check the vehicle’s condition, insurance coverage, and return time requirements.
Tips
- Confirm airport pickup with your hotel in advance. Though the distance to your lodging is short, walking with luggage is inconvenient.
- Agree on car hire or transfer prices, duration, and vehicle/fuel details beforehand.
- With few flights and high costs for missing one, arrive early and monitor airline updates to avoid losing your only connection.