🐾 Traveling to Nauru with Pets
Pet-Friendly Nauru
Nauru, a small Pacific island nation, has limited but welcoming pet policies due to its compact size and tropical environment. Pets are allowed in outdoor areas and some accommodations, but strict biosecurity measures apply. Focus on beach walks and private spaces for pets in this unique destination.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from Nauru's Department of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry before arrival.
Submit application at least 30 days in advance with health certificates and vaccination records.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the stay.
Proof of vaccination must be endorsed by an official veterinarian from the country of origin.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted prior to rabies vaccination.
Microchip number must be linked to all documentation; scanners are available at entry points.
Quarantine & Health Checks
Pets from rabies-free countries may avoid quarantine if fully compliant; others face 30-day quarantine.
Health certificate issued within 7 days of travel required, including parasite treatments.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls are prohibited; check with Nauru authorities for specifics.
All dogs must be leashed in public; muzzles may be required for larger breeds.
Other Pets
Birds and small mammals require separate permits; exotic species need CITES documentation.
Due to biosecurity, only common household pets are typically approved for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Nauru on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like outdoor spaces.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Yaren District): Limited options like Capelle Hotel allow small pets for AUD 20-30/night, with access to nearby beaches. Basic amenities include leashed walks in grounds.
- Guesthouses & Bungalows (Anibare & Ewa): Small family-run guesthouses often welcome pets at no extra charge, offering private yards and proximity to lagoons for pet play.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Short-term rentals via local agents permit pets, providing space for animals to roam in Nauru's compact island setting.
- Beachside Lodges: Properties near Anibare Bay accept well-behaved pets, ideal for beachcombing and relaxed stays with ocean views.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Informal camping areas on the coast are pet-friendly, with space for tents and leashed dogs near natural attractions.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end stays like the Menen Hotel offer pet accommodations with services including local vet contacts for tropical climates.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Coastal Trails
Nauru's pristine beaches like Anibare Bay are ideal for leashed pet walks in the tropical sun.
Keep pets hydrated and avoid midday heat; check for coral-safe areas.
Lagoons & Swimming Areas
Buada Lagoon and coastal spots allow pets in designated off-leash zones during low tide.
Monitor for marine life; freshwater lagoons provide cooling dips for dogs.
Historic Sites & Parks
WWII remnants and the Parliament Complex grounds welcome leashed pets for exploration.
Yaren District's open spaces permit quiet walks; respect cultural sites.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Local eateries in Yaren allow pets at outdoor tables; water bowls are common.
Small cafés near the port offer shaded seating for pets during meals.
Island Walking Tours
Guided coastal walks around Nauru welcome leashed pets at no extra cost.
Avoid phosphate plateau areas; stick to beach and lagoon paths.
Boat Trips & Fishing
Some charter boats allow small pets in life jackets; fees around AUD 10-20.
Check operators for pet policies; calm waters suit relaxed outings.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Taxis & Private Transfers: Local taxis allow small pets free if leashed; larger dogs may incur AUD 5-10 fee. Book in advance via hotels.
- Rental Cars: Limited rentals from Nauru Phosphate Company allow pets with cleaning deposit (AUD 20-50). Ideal for island exploration.
- Walking & Biking: Nauru's small size (21 sq km) makes walking feasible; rent bikes for pet carriers (AUD 10/day).
- Flights to Nauru: Our Airline and Nauru Airlines permit cabin pets under 8kg for AUD 50-100. Larger pets in cargo with health certs. Compare on Aviasales.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Nauru Airlines accepts pets in cabin (under 8kg) for AUD 75 each way. Cargo for larger pets requires quarantine prep.
- Airport Transfers: Arranged pet transport from Nauru International Airport; carriers recommended for flights.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Nauru Hospital in Yaren provides basic veterinary care; for emergencies, contact the Department of Agriculture.
Costs AUD 50-150; travel insurance should cover pet emergencies in remote areas.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Local stores in Yaren stock basic pet food and meds; import specialized items.
Pharmacies carry flea treatments; bring prescriptions for chronic conditions.
Grooming & Day Care
Limited services; hotels may arrange informal grooming for AUD 20-40.
Pet-sitting by locals available through guesthouses during excursions.
Pet-Sitting Services
Informal arrangements via hotels or community; no major apps, but trusted locals for day care.
Fees AUD 15-25/day; ideal for short island tours.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in public areas, beaches, and near settlements. Off-leash only in private yards.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs may need muzzles in populated areas; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry waste bags; dispose in bins. Fines up to AUD 100 for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on beaches but not in swimming zones; respect nesting birds.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating permits leashed pets; keep quiet and away from food.
- Protected Areas: Phosphate plateau and lagoons require leashed pets; avoid disturbing wildlife.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Nauru
Nauru for Families
Nauru offers a unique, relaxed family experience with its tropical beaches, lagoons, and cultural heritage. The island's small size makes it easy to explore, with safe environments, natural playgrounds, and community warmth perfect for kids and parents.
Top Family Attractions
Anibare Bay Beach
Beautiful white-sand beach with calm waters for swimming and picnics.
Free access; ideal for building sandcastles and family beach days.
Buada Lagoon
Freshwater lagoon surrounded by palms, great for birdwatching and easy swims.
Free entry; family-friendly with shaded areas for relaxation.
Parliament House & Cultural Sites
Modern architecture and WWII Japanese gun sites for educational family visits.
Guided tours AUD 10-15; kids enjoy the historical stories.
Phosphate Mining Museum
Interactive exhibits on Nauru's history with mining artifacts.
Entry AUD 5 adults, free for kids; short, engaging for families.
Snorkeling Trips
Family snorkel tours to coral reefs with calm, shallow spots.
Costs AUD 50-80/person; life jackets provided for children.
Command Ridge Viewpoint
Panoramic views of the island; short hike suitable for kids.
Free; great for family photos and spotting landmarks.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Nauru on Viator. From beach excursions to cultural tours, find age-appropriate experiences with flexible options.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Yaren): Capelle Hotel offers family rooms for AUD 100-150/night with extra beds and kids' meals.
- Guesthouses (Coastal Areas): Od-N-Eu Guest House provides family bungalows with kitchens for AUD 80-120/night.
- Beach Holidays: Lodges near Anibare welcome families with outdoor play space for AUD 90-140/night.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units in Ewa district for flexible family stays at AUD 70-110/night.
- Budget Guesthouses: Simple family rooms in Denig district for AUD 50-90/night with shared facilities.
- Eco-Lodges: Nature-focused stays with family activities like lagoon access for AUD 120-180/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Yaren District with Kids
Parliament visits, local markets, and easy beach access for play.
Cultural dances and storytelling sessions engage young imaginations.
Anibare & Ewa Districts
Bay swimming, lagoon picnics, and shell collecting adventures.
Family fishing trips and sunset beach walks create lasting memories.
Denigomodu & Uaboe
WWII sites exploration and coastal trails for active kids.
Snorkeling in protected bays with guided family sessions.
Buada Lagoon Area
Birdwatching, swimming, and nature walks in lush surroundings.
Picnic spots and easy paths perfect for toddlers and families.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Taxis: Family taxis for AUD 5-10 per trip; child seats available on request.
- Rental Cars: Compact cars with boosters for AUD 50/day; easy driving on the 24km ring road.
- Walking: Island's size allows family strolls; stroller-friendly paths near beaches.
- Stroller-Friendly: Flat coastal areas accessible; avoid rocky phosphate zones.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Local eateries offer simple fish, rice for AUD 5-10; high chairs limited.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Capelle Hotel dining with outdoor seating and casual vibe.
- Self-Catering: Small supermarkets stock baby food and diapers; fresh seafood markets.
- Snacks & Treats: Tropical fruits and coconut treats keep kids happy on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available at hotels and the hospital; basic but clean.
- Pharmacies: Yaren pharmacy stocks essentials; English-speaking staff assist.
- Babysitting Services: Hotel-arranged local sitters for AUD 10-15/hour.
- Medical Care: Nauru Hospital has pediatric services; emergencies dial 110.
♿ Accessibility in Nauru
Accessible Travel
Nauru is working on accessibility with flat beaches and basic ramps, though the small island's terrain varies. Hotels and main sites offer support for inclusive family travel.
Transportation Accessibility
- Taxis: Standard taxis accommodate wheelchairs; call for assistance.
- Rental Cars: Automatic vehicles available; paths mostly flat.
- Airport: Nauru International Airport provides wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities.
- Walking Paths: Coastal roads are navigable; some uneven areas.
Accessible Attractions
- Beaches & Lagoons: Wheelchair-accessible entry points at Anibare Bay.
- Historic Sites: Parliament grounds flat and open; guided access.
- Nature Areas: Buada Lagoon paths partially accessible.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; ground-floor options available.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (March-October) for sunny beaches; wet season (Nov-Feb) brings rain but fewer crowds.
Year-round warmth (25-30°C); avoid cyclone risks in wet months.
Budget Tips
Family packages save on tours; self-catering reduces costs in small markets.
Free beaches and lagoons keep expenses low for natural fun.
Language
English and Nauruan official; English widely spoken in tourism.
Locals friendly; simple phrases appreciated for family interactions.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, sunscreen, hats for tropical heat; insect repellent essential.
Pet owners: bring food, tick prevention, leash, and vet docs for island life.
Useful Apps
Google Maps for navigation; local taxi apps limited, use hotel bookings.
Weather apps for tropical forecasts; translation for Nauruan phrases.
Health & Safety
Very safe island; drink bottled water. Hospital for basics; travel insurance advised.
Emergency: dial 110; protect against sun and mosquitoes year-round.