Nauru
Micronesia
Nauru is a country in Micronesia, home to 12,500 people, with an area of 21 km². Its capital is Yaren.
- Capital
- Yaren
- Population
- 12,500
- Area
- 21 km²
- Region
- Micronesia
- Density
- 595 / km²
- Status
- Sovereign state
Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.
What Nauru is known for
Nauru is best known for Nauru Museum, Buada Lagoon and Anibare Bay.
Nauru is a small island country located in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. It is the world’s smallest island nation and also one of the least populated countries in the world, with a population of around 10,000 people. The country’s economy is heavily dependent on phosphate mining, and it faces numerous environmental and economic challenges. The official language is Nauruan, although English is widely spoken and is used in government and commerce.
Nauru at a glance
- Language
- Nauruan and English are the official languages, with Nauruan being the most widely spoken
- Currency
- Australian dollar (AUD)
- Religion
- Christianity is the predominant religion in Nauru, with the largest denomination being the Nauru Congregational Church
- National dish
- Palau (a porridge-like dish made from banana and coconut cream)
- Climate
- Nauru has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round. The island also experiences a rainy season from November to February
- Main industries
- Phosphate mining, fishing, and small-scale agriculture
- GDP
- $112 million (nominal, 2021 estimate)
- Development
- Nauru is considered a developing country with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 149 out of 189 countries (2020)
Things to do in Nauru
Nauru is not widely known for its tourist attractions, but there are a few notable sights to see on the island:
- Nauru Museum a small museum located in the capital, Yaren District, that displays artifacts and information about the history and culture of Nauru.
- Buada Lagoon a serene freshwater lagoon located in the center of the island, surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Anibare Bay a beautiful white sandy beach with clear turquoise waters, popular for swimming and snorkeling.
- Command Ridge a hilltop that offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean.
- Moqua Well an ancient well that was used by Nauruan villagers for generations.
- Japanese Guns a series of World War II-era guns and fortifications located on the coast of the island.
Overall, Nauru is a unique and remote destination that offers a glimpse into a way of life that is vastly different from the rest of the world.
Nauru in pictures
Nauru on video
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Nauru compared with its neighbours
How it sits against the other countries of Micronesia.
| Country | Population | Area | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
 Micronesia | 115,000 | 702 km² | Palikir |
 Marshall Islands | 38,000 | 181 km² | Majuro |
 Palau | 17,700 | 459 km² | Ngerulmud |
| Nauru | 12,500 | 21 km² | Yaren |
Ranked 193rd of 195 countries by population and 193rd by area.
Questions about Nauru
What is the capital of Nauru?
The capital of Nauru is Yaren.
How many people live in Nauru?
About 12,500 people. Ranked 193rd of 195 countries by population and 193rd by area.
How big is Nauru?
Nauru covers 21 km², in Micronesia.
What is Nauru known for?
Nauru is best known for Nauru Museum, Buada Lagoon and Anibare Bay.
What language is spoken in Nauru?
Nauruan and English are the official languages, with Nauruan being the most widely spoken.
What currency is used in Nauru?
Australian dollar (AUD).
Is Nauru a country?
Yes. Nauru is a sovereign state and is counted among the 195 countries this generator draws from.