Verified Facts
The internet in Nauru is limited but available through a few mobile carriers and WiFi hotspots, with an average internet speed of 5 Mbps download.
Quick Facts
Internet Overview
The internet quality in Nauru is generally slow and unreliable, with frequent outages and disruptions, especially in rural areas. The urban vs rural divide is significant, with Yaren, the capital, having better internet access than the rest of the island. However, even in Yaren, the internet can be slow and unreliable, making it challenging for both residents and tourists to stay connected. The reliability of the internet in Nauru is also a concern, with frequent power outages and maintenance issues affecting the network.
The government of Nauru has been working to improve the internet infrastructure, including the installation of a new undersea fiber-optic cable, which is expected to increase internet speeds and reliability. However, the progress has been slow, and the internet remains a challenge for many users. Despite these challenges, the internet has become an essential part of life in Nauru, with many residents and businesses relying on it for communication, education, and commerce.
Getting a SIM Card
To get a SIM card in Nauru, tourists can visit the offices of the main carriers, Digicel and Telecom Nauru, which are located in Yaren. To purchase a SIM card, tourists will need to provide their passport and proof of address, and the cost is approximately 20 USD. The recommended carriers for tourists are Digicel and Telecom Nauru, which offer a range of data plans and packages. It is also possible to purchase a SIM card at the airport or at some retail stores, but the selection may be limited.
| Carrier | Tourist Plan | Data | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digicel | Prepaid | 1 GB | 10 | Valid for 7 days |
| Telecom Nauru | Tourist Plan | 2 GB | 20 | Valid for 14 days |
| Digicel | Data Plan | 5 GB | 30 | Valid for 30 days |
| Telecom Nauru | Monthly Plan | 10 GB | 50 | Valid for 30 days |
WiFi Availability
- Hotel WiFi quality is generally good, but can be slow and unreliable at times
- Cafe WiFi culture is limited, with only a few cafes offering WiFi, and the speeds can be slow
- Coworking spaces are not available in Nauru, making it challenging for remote workers to find a reliable and fast internet connection
- Public WiFi is not widely available, and the few hotspots that exist are often slow and unreliable
- Some restaurants and bars offer WiFi, but the speeds can be slow and the coverage can be limited
For Remote Workers
- Coworking spaces are not available, but some hotels and resorts offer meeting rooms and conference facilities that can be used as a workspace
- Reliable cafe chains are not available, but some local cafes offer WiFi and can be used as a workspace
- Backup internet options are limited, but some hotels and resorts offer a backup internet connection through a satellite link
- VPN needs are essential, as the internet in Nauru can be slow and unreliable, and a VPN can help to improve the security and speed of the connection
- Some hotels and resorts offer a dedicated internet connection for remote workers, which can be more reliable and faster than the public WiFi
Tips & Warnings
- Internet censorship is not a major concern in Nauru, but some websites may be blocked due to licensing restrictions
- Blocked sites can include some online streaming services and social media platforms
- VPN recommendations include ExpressVPN and NordVPN, which offer fast and secure connections
- Roaming alternatives are available, but can be expensive, and it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card instead
- eSIM options are not widely available, but some carriers offer eSIM plans for tourists
- It is essential to be patient and flexible when using the internet in Nauru, as the speeds can be slow and the connection can be unreliable.