Nauru Capital

The de facto capital city of Nauru is Yaren. It was established in 1968 under the name Makwa or Moqua which is a reference to the area’s underground lake which serves as a major source of drinking water for the local population. The city is situated in the southern portion of the island and occupies an area of just 0.58 square miles. Yaren has the status of being a de facto capital city due to the fact that Nauru doesn’t have any other cities lest of all any large enough to serve in the role of capital.

According to figures from 2011 the total population of Yaren was estimated to be 747. Nauru’s biggest district is Denigomodu which is home to a majority of its residents. Yaren is considered to be the nation’s capital because the United Nation accepts it as Nauru’s main district. Yaren is also home to an array of government offices such as the Parliament House, Nauru International Airport, the Australian High Commission, Taiwanese Embassy, and National Stadium.

Although Yaren isn’t considered a tourist destination it is home to one of Nauru’s main natural landmarks; the Moqua Well. This underground lake served as the main source of drinking water for local residents during World War II which explains why it is called a well rather than a lake. Visitors who do venture to Yaren are attracted to the region come here in order to enjoy its tropical white sandy beaches, warm ocean waters, and jungle environment.

Nauru enjoys a hot and humid climate all year long. The island nation is prone to monsoons which commonly occur between the months of November and February. Annual temperatures range from highs of 86.5F to lows of 77F. Average rain fall amounts fall between a low of 3.94 inches in October to 11.02 inches during December and January.