Buada Basin

The Buada Basin is one of the most unique geographical features of Nauru, standing in stark contrast to the barren, phosphate-mined landscape seen on the rest of the island. This natural depression within the central plateau is home to the Buada Lagoon, the nation's only freshwater lake. The basin's exceptionally fertile soil has allowed lush vegetation to survive, making it the island's most significant agricultural area, where crops like bananas, pineapples, and coconuts are grown. The area was largely spared from intensive surface mining, thus preserving its original tropical character. The small village on the lagoon's shores and the surrounding gardens form the "green heart" of Nauru, which is not only ecologically vital but also provides a fundamental food source and a place of respite for the local community within its cooler microclimate.

Nearby cities

Baitsi

Baitsi is located in the north of Nauru and extends from the coast into the hilly interior.

Buada Historic Settlement

The fertile inland area around Buada Lagoon, a center for agriculture and settlement on the island for centuries.

Buada

Buada is the only landlocked district of Nauru.

Aiwo

Aiwo is considered the main commercial hub of Nauru.

Boe

Boe is a small but densely populated administrative district in southwest Nauru.

Yaren

Yaren is the primary administrative district of Nauru and serves as the de facto capital.

Denigomodu Settlement

Denigomodu is the economic residential hub for phosphate industry workers.

Denigomodu

Denigomodu is the most populous district of Nauru.

Nibok

Nibok is a district on the western coast of Nauru.

Meneng

Meneng is an extensive district in the southeast of Nauru.

Uaboe

Uaboe is a small coastal district in northwestern Nauru.

Anibare

Anibare is best known for the bay of the same name, which offers the island's finest swimming beach.

Ewa

Ewa is the northernmost point of Nauru.

Anetan

Anetan is a district on the northern coast of Nauru.

Ijuw

Ijuw is the easternmost district of Nauru.

History & landmarks

Command Ridge

Command Ridge is the highest point in Nauru at 65 meters elevation.

Nauru Post Office

The main post office in Aiwo is a key institution for the island's communication.

BPC Administration Building

The former headquarters of the British Phosphate Commissioners, who controlled mining for decades.

Aiwo Civic Centre

The civic centre in Aiwo is a central hub for administrative and social events.

Centenary Complex

A complex of buildings built to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of phosphate, now housing government offices.

Nauru General Hospital

The Nauru General Hospital in Denigomodu is the primary medical facility on the island.

Central Pacific Bank

The Central Pacific Bank in Aiwo is Nauru's primary financial institution.

Nature

Buada Lagoon

Buada Lagoon is a landlocked, brackish lake located in the center of the island.

Boe Coral Belt

The Boe Coral Belt is a narrow reef system on the west of the island.

More places

Buada District Gardens

The gardens in Buada District show a mix of ornamental and food plants.

Buada Pandanus Groves

The Pandanus groves around Buada Lagoon are a sanctuary for native flora.

Japanese Hospital Ruins

Remains of a Japanese army medical facility, built in the island's interior during the Pacific War.

Nauru Rehabilitation Corporation (NRC)

The NRC is responsible for restoring land areas destroyed by mining.

Interior Lowland

This lower-lying area in the island's interior is surrounded by the higher edges of the coral plateau.

Boe Coastal Flora

The flora of Boe includes a variety of beach morning glories and low-lying coastal plants.

Command Ridge Guns

Historic Japanese coastal defense guns located at the highest point of the island, remaining in their original positions today.

Command Ridge Forest

Command Ridge hosts some of the densest remaining forest patches on the island.