BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN YAREN (NAURU)

Yaren's scenic coastal loop

Start your bike touring adventure with Yaren’s iconic coastal loop—a full-circle ride around the island that totals about 19 kilometers. It’s an easygoing, mostly flat route that lets you circle all of Nauru in under two hours, depending on your pace and photo stops. The loop is perfect for casual riders or tourists who want a comprehensive introduction to the island’s vibes, culture, and landscapes.

Highlights along the way

As you pedal through Yaren and into neighboring districts, you’ll pass a mix of charming residential areas, coastal views, and quirky landmarks like the rusted remains of WWII bunkers. The turquoise ocean is your constant companion on the left, while small shops, schools, and churches dot the roadside to your right. If you’re into beachside pit stops, Anibare Bay offers the perfect halfway point to stretch your legs or take a refreshing dip.

• Distance: ~19 km (full island loop)

• Road Type: Mostly paved, occasional potholes

• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Must-See: Anibare Bay, old phosphate train tracks

• Time Estimate: 1.5–2 hours with stops

Safety-wise, traffic is light, and the vibe is mellow—locals are used to seeing cyclists, and you’ll often be greeted with a wave or a smile. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for beating the tropical heat. Don’t forget sunscreen, plenty of water, and maybe a cold coconut juice from a roadside stand.

Pro tip: Ride clockwise to stick closer to the coast for optimal views and easier roadside stops. Plus, it's the best way to time your rest at Anibare Bay for lunch!

Touring the airport circuit

One of the most unique aspects of cycling in Yaren is the proximity to the island’s only airport, Nauru International. While it might sound odd, the area around the airport offers surprisingly smooth roads and a flat, breezy ride perfect for anyone warming up or looking for a chill sunset spin.

Why cyclists love this loop

The airport circuit is roughly 5 kilometers in total if you stick close to the surrounding roads. It’s flat, it’s scenic in its own way, and there’s something oddly satisfying about watching a plane take off or land just a few meters from where you’re pedaling. Since flight traffic is minimal, the area isn’t congested, and it doubles as a peaceful ride and a chance to observe local life going about its day.

• Distance: ~5 km

• Road Type: Paved, well-maintained

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Must-See: Airport runway views, local kids playing football nearby

• Time Estimate: 20–30 minutes leisurely pace

Another plus? There are a couple of food vendors and small markets nearby, so post-ride snacks are easy to find. Many local cyclists use this route for training laps because of its safety, lack of steep inclines, and reliable pavement. It’s also the go-to zone for night rides since there’s more lighting and less foot traffic.

Want to add a bit more to the ride? Veer off the main circle and head a few hundred meters east to reach the Moqua Well area—a hidden freshwater cave system that locals cherish. You’ll need to dismount and walk part of the way, but it’s worth the short detour for the cool underground breeze.

Exploring phosphate plateaus and inland paths

While coastal loops are the star of the show in Nauru, inland cycling offers a completely different vibe—one that’s a bit more rugged and offbeat. The island’s phosphate mining legacy left behind a jagged, surreal terrain that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. If you’re into exploratory biking and aren’t afraid of a little gravel and elevation, the inland plateaus offer serious adventure potential.

Route insights and terrain tips

The central plateau area rises gently above the coast, with old phosphate tracks and dusty service roads crisscrossing the zone. Some of these paths are paved, others not so much, but they’re usually navigable on a hybrid or mountain bike. Expect more challenging inclines, unpredictable road conditions, and the occasional dog chase (don’t worry, they’re more bark than bite).

• Distance: Varies (8–15 km loop options)

• Road Type: Mixed terrain—gravel, dirt, and patchy pavement

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Must-See: Buada Lagoon, phosphate pinnacles, Moqua Well

• Time Estimate: 1.5–2.5 hours

Buada Lagoon is a lush, hidden gem tucked into the interior, and the route to get there winds through semi-jungle areas and open mined lands. It’s cooler than the coast thanks to shaded stretches and breezes through the interior. Bring extra water, a patch kit, and maybe even a buddy if you plan to go deep into the plateaus, as signage and lighting are minimal.

Cyclists who want more grit and challenge will enjoy this part of Nauru the most. It’s raw, real, and feels like you’re cycling through a Mad Max movie set—just with friendlier locals and more coconuts. The inland routes also give a glimpse into the environmental impact of Nauru’s phosphate history, offering a sobering but important view of the island’s evolution.

If you're planning to explore the interior, try going early in the morning before the sun hits its peak. A good breakfast, a hydration plan, and a reliable bike setup are non-negotiables. Oh, and make sure your phone is fully charged—GPS can be hit or miss, but offline maps are a lifesaver.