Central Plateau Ferns

The "Topside" plateau of Nauru, which was heavily altered by intensive phosphate mining during the 20th century, is currently witnessing a remarkable ecological transformation. In the shadows of the jagged limestone pinnacles, remnants of the prehistoric coral base, hardy pioneer species have begun to reclaim the landscape. Most prominent among these are the Nephrolepis ferns, which have adapted to the nutrient-poor, alkaline environment left behind by mining operations. These ferns play a critical role in soil formation by trapping organic debris and moisture within their root systems, eventually allowing more complex shrubs and trees to take hold. Walking through the plateau provides a surreal visual experience where the stark, white rocks contrast with the emerging spirited green of the ferns. This natural regeneration process is a focal point for environmental studies on the island, illustrating the resilience of Pacific flora in the face of industrial scars.

Nearby cities

Baitsi

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

Buada

Buada is the only landlocked district of Nauru.

Buada Historic Settlement

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

Nibok

Nibok is a district on the western coast of Nauru.

Aiwo

Aiwo is considered the main commercial hub of Nauru.

Meneng

Meneng is an extensive district in the southeast of Nauru.

Denigomodu Settlement

Denigomodu is the economic residential hub for phosphate industry workers.

Boe

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

Denigomodu

Denigomodu is the most populous district of Nauru.

Yaren

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

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.

Ijuw

Ijuw is the easternmost district of Nauru.

Anetan

Anetan is a district on the northern coast of Nauru.

Ewa

Ewa is the northernmost point of Nauru.

History & landmarks

Phosphate Pinnacles

These bizarre limestone columns were left behind after the phosphate layers were mined in Nauru's interior.

Phosphate Discovery Site

The location where vast phosphate deposits were identified around 1900, changing the course of Nauru's history forever.

Anibare Escarpment

This steep escarpment marks the transition from the central plateau to Anibare Bay on the eastern coast.

Eastern Plateau Rim

The eastern rim of the plateau features steep cliffs overlooking the narrow coastal plain of Ijuw.

Meneng Terrace

The Meneng Terrace is a flat topographical step located between the high plateau and the southern coastline.

Command Ridge

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

Anibare Pinnacles

The Anibare Pinnacles are distinctive limestone formations rising from the coastal sand.

Nature

Buada Lagoon

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

More places

Conservation Nursery

The nursery serves the reforestation of areas damaged by mining.

Anibare Forest

The Anibare Forest is a rare remnant of the original tropical rainforest on the limestone terraces.

Nauru State House

The State House is the official residence of the President of Nauru.

Buada Pandanus Groves

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

Nauru Rehabilitation Corporation (NRC)

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

Buada Basin

The Buada Basin is a natural depression within the central plateau, containing the island's only inland lake.

Buada District Gardens

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

Northern Uplands

The northern uplands comprise the elevated areas of the plateau within the Ewa and Anetan districts.