Exploring Timor-Leste

Travel to one of the least visited countries on the planet

    Dili

    Aileu | Ainaro | Atauro Island | Baucau | Bobonaro | Covalima | Dili | Ermera | Lautém | Liquiçá | Manatuto | Manufahi | Oecusse | Viqueque

    Why visit?

    It would be hard to visit Timor-Leste and not visit the capital Dili, as it is the main transport hub for the country, and home to some of the most accessible sights and activities. The city spreads along the waterfront between the Wetar Strait and densely covered hills. It is the smallest municipality geographically, but has by far the largest population, being home to around 325,000 of Timor-Leste’s 1.3m population. Dili is blessed with crocodile free waters (rare in Timor-Leste), and Portuguese, Indonesian and Timorese era heritage (though over 80% of Dili was destroyed with Indonesia’s exit in 1999). Relative to the rest of Timor-Leste it is a big city, but most visitors will find it a welcoming place. It is easy to spend a couple of days exploring the sights, though the main attraction is probably just wandering around, experiencing the atmosphere of the city.

    The Timor-Leste Tourism Information Centre (Centro de Informação Turística) is located on the waterfront in Lecidere, opposite the Novo Tourism Resort.

    Top three experiences

    • Exploring the Cristo Rei area, the statue, hiking and snorkelling
    • Understanding the history of Timor-Leste at the Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum, Chega! Exhibition, and Santa Cruz Cemetery
    • Strolling along the Dili waterfront, enjoying a fresh coconut, seeing how Timorese relax

    Top places to stay

    • Palm Springs Hotel Dili (+670 3311 288)
    • Hotel Timor (+670 332 4502)
    • Timor Plaza Hotel & Apartments (+670 7752 9888)
    • Sunset Inn by Pro-Ema (+670 7794 0900)
    • Golgota Hotel (+670 7788 8888)
    • Novo Turismo (+670 331 0005)
    • DaTerra Vila Verde hostel (+670 7730 6030)

    Top places to eat and drink

    • Pro-Ema (+670 7794 0900)
    • Dilicious Timor (+670 7730 3301)
    • Ha Ha Kafe (Blue) (+670 7689 4515)
    • Agora Food Studio (+670 7785 9912)
    • Uma Saudavel (+670 7590 8146)
    • Ahi Matan (+670 7708 8701)
    • Visit Diliguide for an extensive guide to eating and drinking well in Dili

    Sights

    Cristo Rei – The most recognisable ‘sight’ in Timor-Leste stands 27m high at the end of Cape Fatucama. The statue of Jesus was intended as a gift from the Indonesian government to then East Timor to mark the 20th anniversary of its integration as the 27th province of Indonesia (which explains its height). Costing over 5 billion rupiah (US$559,000), it opened in 1996, just three years before the Timorese gained independence from their Indonesian occupiers. There are 14 Stations of the Cross leading up nearly 600 steps from the huge flagpole by Cristo Rei Beach. The statue itself faces Jakarta. The cape, and two beaches, have been designated an Important Bird Area. Migratory birds who visit the area include the critically endangered Christmas Island frigatebirds. Cool down afterwards with a dip or snorkel at Dolok Oan / Back Beach on the other side of the peninsula. Follow the steps down, and return to where you started by walking around the road at the base of the cape.

    Cristo Rei is a long walk in the heat from central Dili, and is best reached by catching the regular #12 microlet local bus (see the Getting Around section for details of how to use them) from outside the Tourism Information Centre on the waterfront. It is a popular place with both locals and expats to exercise and enjoy the stunning views.

    Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum – The best place to start to understand the history of Timor-Leste. Opened in 2005, in the rebuilt former Portuguese Timor Court of Justice building, the museum tells the story of Timor-Leste from pre-colonial times, but the focus is on the brutal 24 year long Indonesian occupation. Note that photography is not allowed inside. Microlet local buses #3, #6, #7 and #10, and walk 5 minutes.

    Chega! Exhibition – In Portuguese Chega! means stop or enough, and was the title of the report of the Timor-Leste Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation. The Chega! Exhibition was established in 2016 in the Old Balide Prison, which was used during Portuguese and Indonesian times to house and torture thousands of Timorese. It is a deeply moving place to visit. Microlet local buses #1, #4, #5, #8, and #9.

    Church of Saint Anthony of Motael – This is the site of the oldest Catholic church in Timor-Leste, dating from around 1800. It was built on land donated by King Motain and inaugurated by Bishop Madeiros. A century later a long term project was started to reconstruct the decaying church. This was completed before WW2, only for the building to be substantially damaged by bombing during the war. The current structure dates from 1955, and functioned as the de facto cathedral for Dili until the construction of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. Motael Church was where the funeral for independence supporter Sebastião Gomes was held. He was killed by Indonesian soldiers inside the church, where he and other activists were being sheltered by the pastor. His funeral procession a fortnight later turned into the Santa Cruz Massacre. Microlet local bus #9.

    Santa Cruz Cemetery – One of the most important places in modern Timorese history. On 12 November 1991 mourners for independence supporter Sebastião Gomes were fired upon by Indonesian soldiers while undertaking a peaceful procession from Motael Church to Santa Cruz Cemetery. At least 271 people, mostly students, were killed. British journalist Max Stahl managed to bravely film the massacre, and hide his footage in the cemetery, to later recover and share with the world. Timor-Leste had been under occupation from Indonesian since 1975 but this was the event that really made the world aware of what was happening, and helped lead to independence. 12 November is now an annual Youth Day, and commemorations are held at the cemetery. Sebastião Gomes’ grave is located toward the rear of the cemetery, best located via Google Maps. Microlet local buses #1 and #7.

    Dili Lighthouse – Dating from 1896, the 19m high lighthouse is a landmark on the Dili waterfront. It was altered in 1932 and between 1948 and 1949, and more recently refurbished in 2003 with Japanese funding. Microlet local bus #9.

    Dili waterfront – A 2.5km walk along the waterfront from Dili Lighthouse to the Fruit Market is a wonderful way to experience the city. You’ll walk through the attractive Motael Gardens, past the old port (now only used by ferries), through the vibrant Largo de Lecidere where fresh coconuts can be bought for $1, by a Japanese pillbox dating from WW2, past the only Astroturf pitch in the country (a gift from the Chinese government), by the Tourist Information Centre (open 8-12am and 2-5.30pm Mon-Fri), and finish at the colourful fruit market. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #9 and #10.

    Immaculate Conception Cathedral – One of the largest Catholic cathedrals in South East Asia, this took the Indonesians four years to build, and was officially inaugurated by Indonesian President Soeharto on 2 November 1988. Pope John Paul II visited and blessed the cathedral in 1989, and Pope Francis visited the cathedral in 2024. It can hold up to 2,000 worshippers inside, and has space for many more on the 10,000sqm2 plot. The original Dili Cathedral was inaugurated in 1937 and destroyed by Allied bombing in November 1942. It was an impressive four story high twin towered white building located closer to the waterfront. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #9 and #10.

    Chinese Hakka Guan Di Temple – One of the few buildings in Dili to remain undamaged for nearly 100 years, the Chinese Temple of Dili opened in 1928. It was established by immigrants from Macau who secured funding from the Portuguese colonial government and Chinese Diaspora. The main shrine is dedicated to Lord Guan, a 3rd century Chinese general worshipped in Chinese folk religion, Confucianism, and Chinese Buddhism. Another room dedicated to Guan Yin, a bodhisattva venerated in Chinese folk religion, was added in 1997. Microlet local buses #2, #3, #4, #6, #7 and #9, and walk 2 minutes.

    An-Nur Mosque – The main centre of worship for Muslims in Timor-Leste, who make up less than 1% of the population. The mosque was constructed in 1955 and renovated in 1981. It is home to a school attended by both Muslims and non-Muslims. Microlet local bus #9 and walk 2 minutes.

    Pura Giri Natha Dili – The third largest Balinese temple outside of Bali was built to for the many Balinese soldiers who served during the occupation of Timor-Leste. It was inaugurated in 1987 by Governor Mario Viegas Carrascalão, and after independence it fell into ruin. The government is currently spending $1.2m to restore it as a tourist attraction, though some signage to it would be welcome! Speak to the security guard for access to the interior part of the temple. Microlet local bus #8.

    Galeria Memória Viva – Opened in 2022, this museum is dedicated to the eventful life of José Ramos-Horta, former and current President of Timor-Leste. He played an important role in the independence movement, and the many awards and recognitions he has received (though not his Nobel Peace Prize) are on display in his beautiful former home near the Dili waterfront. Microlet local bus #9.

    Xanana Gusmao Museum, Art Gallery and Reading Room – This is the home of a local non-profit organisation that aims to develop and support a public library service to inform and educate all. It was established in 2000 by Xanana Gusmão, a former resistence leader, President and Prime Minister (and current) of Timor-Leste. The complex includes a small museum, gallery, and library. In 2024 the site underwent a substantial rehabilitation funded by the Japanese government. Microlet local buses #3, #4 and #10 and walk 2 minutes or #12.

    Centro Audiovisual Max Stahl Timor-Leste – Opposite the Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum, this is an institution dedicated to preserving the audiovisual history of Timor-Leste, and providing educational opportunities. Inside you are likely to find young Timorese using the facilities, the largest VHS collection you’ve probably seen, and you can watch footage of the Santa Cruz Massacre filmed by British journalist Max Stahl. Microlet local buses #3, #6, #7 and #10, and walk 5 minutes.

    Government Palace – The original Official Palace was built by the Portuguese between 1874 and 1881. During WW2 it was destroyed by bombing by both the Japanese and Allied forces. The current palace was built in three stages in the 1950s and 1960s by the Portuguese, and was one of the few buildings in Dili to be swiftly repaired after the devastation of Indonesia’s departure in 1999. It is the official workplace of the Prime Minister and Constitutional Government. In front of the Palace is a monument to Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in the early days of the Portuguese Empire. In 2004 the Australian government bugged the Palace to gain advantage in negotiations over the distribution of oil and gas revenue from the Timor Gap between the two countries. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #6, #9, and #10.

    Lotte Clock Tower – A landmark on the Dili waterfront opposite the Government Palace, this unusually shaped clock celebrates the strong relationship between Timor-Leste and Korea, who share the same time zone. It is named after its Korean-based donor, the Lotte Corporation. Close by is a 0.Km white block, from which all distances to Dili are measured. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #6, and #10.

    International People’s Park – Opened in 2002, by José Ramos-Horta, this small circular park honours the contribution of thousands of international peacekeepers, UN police, UN civilian staff, UN volunteers, humanitarian workers, and the international community at large who assisted Timor-Leste on its journey to independence. On Saturday nights there are often amateur boxing matches held here. Next to it are the only Astroturf pitches in the country, funded by China. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #10, and #12.

    Casa Europa – The oldest building in Dili, dating back to the late 19th century, when it was built by the Portuguese as infantry barracks. In the 1930s it was the home of the Dili municipality administration. During WW2 it was the headquarters for the Japanese, and surprisingly it was one of the few buildings in Dili that survived the war. After the war it returned to Portuguese military use until 1972, and was used by the Indonesian National Armed Forces during the occupation. It was badly damaged in September 1999, but restored with funds from the World Bank and UNESCO as the official cultural centre of Timor-Leste, though sadly the centre wasn’t established. In 2008 it was renovated again and became the headquarters of the European Commission in Timor-Leste, which lead to the name Casa Europa. Apparently the new roof installed was too heavy for the supporting walls, and the European Commission in Timor-Leste left as a result due to safety concerns. As of 2025 the building is unoccupied, though renovation work is underway to restore it make it suitable as a cultural centre. Microlet local buses #2, #3, #4, #6, #9, and #10.

    Municipal Market of Dili – Opened in the 1960s, this was the main market in Dili until the early 1990s when two more markets were established in Becora (east Dili) and Comoro (west Dili) to cope with the increased city population. In 2010 it was turned into the Dili Convention Centre. Microlet local buses #1, #2, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, and #9.

    Former Chinese Business Association Building – Now home to the Secretariat of State for Youth and Sports, this is a recently restored colonial era building opposite the Dili waterfront, close to Casa Europa. It is one of the few buildings of its era to survive in Dili. The eye catching veranda was added in the 1940s. Microlet local buses #3, #10 and #12.

    Fundação Oriente – The Home of Timorese and Portuguese Arts, Fundação Oriente was established in Timor-Leste in 2000. It rehabilitated a beautiful old building in the Lecidere area, and since 2002 has held regular exhibitions of Portuguese and Timorese artists. The foundation has organised writing competitions, book fairs, supported schools and promoted the teaching of the Portuguese language (which is one of Timor-Leste’s two official languages, along with Tetun). At the very rear of the property is a well, into which the bodies of 10 Timorese killed by Indonesian militia in 1999 were thrown. Microlet local bus #2.

    Statue of Our Lady of Lecidere – Across from the Dili waterfront, it was built in 1954 and inaugurated in 1956. Every May and October, Catholics celebrate Our Lady’s Day and the Feast of Corpus Christi. It also serves as a peaceful garden walking area. Microlet local buses #3, #10 and #12.

    Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace – Built on the site of Dili’s first airport, the Presidential Palace opened in 2009. Its construction (which cost $6m) was paid for by China as a gift to the new country of Timor-Leste. It is the official workplace of the President. It is named after a Timorese national hero, who was the first Prime Minister of Timor-Leste in 1975 for 10 days, until the Indonesians invaded. Dili’s airport is also named after him. In the early days the Palace was open to the public and offered free internet. Now access is restricted but if you ask politely security may let you look around the grounds, which are home to a number of interesting statues, and a wonderful paddling pool for children. Microlet local buses #3 and #10.

    Arte Moris – The first fine arts school, cultural center and artists’ association in Timor-Leste, established in 2003. It gained an international reputation for its varied, and often surreal, art incorporating Timorese culture and motifs. In December 2021 it was controversially evicted from its home in the former National Museum in Comoro, which had been promised by the then government to veterans. Thankfully it found a new home in the former air traffic control tower of the original Dili airport, located to the south of Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. It isn’t easy to find, but the Google Maps location is correct, enter through the gates by the storm water channel and turn right. Microlet local buses #3 and #10 and short walk.

    Tasi Tolu – One of the most scenic parts of Dili. Tasi means sea and tolu means three, referring to the three lakes in the area, though during the wet season the two largest merge, and during the dry season they can largely disappear. It is a nationally Important Bird Area where 71 different species have been spotted, including water birds who migrate annually from Russia. It was a protected nature reserve but many people who moved from the districts have established homes around the perimeter of the lakes. Tasi Tolu Beach is a good spot for swimming and snorkelling. There are a number of excellent walks in the area, from an easy 5km loop of the main lake(s) to a much more challenging traverse of the ridgeline of the surrounding hills. In September 2024 Pope Francis said mass for an estimated 700,000 people at Tasi Tolu, from a purpose-built platform. Microlet local bus #10.

    Uma Adat São Paulo II – This raised platform in Tasi Tolu is where Pope John Paul II spoke to tens of thousands of Timorese in 1989. It is also used for political rallies as the largest open area in Dili. The open area between the platform and Tasi Tolu lakes is used by locals to practice their motorbike skills before taking their test. Microlet local bus #10.

    Statue of Pope John Paul II – Opened in 2008 to commemorate the visit of Pope John Paul II, this striking statue can be found on a small hill across the road from Dili Rock, which marks the border between Dili and Liquiçá. Microlet local bus #10 and walk for 15 minutes.

    Statue of Nicolau Lobato – In the middle of the roundabout by President Nicolau Lobato International Airport is a statue of the first Prime Minister of East Timor, Nicolau Lobato, holding the Timorese flag. Every 31st December Timorese remember the day he was killed in Manufahi by Indonesian forces in 1978. Microlet local buses #9, #10, and #11.

    Statue of Francisco Xavier do Amaral – The roundabout outside the Dili Convention Centre has a statue of Francisco Xavier do Amaral, the first President of Timor-Leste, who died in 2012. It was inaugurated in 2017. Locals refer to it as the pointy man statue, as the President is shown in the same pose as an iconic picture taken at the Proclamation of Independence on the 28th of November 1975. Microlet local buses #1, #2, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, and #9.

    Statue of Youth – Near waterfront close to Motael Church is this statue, representing both the youth that took part in the resistance movement, and the Santa Cruz Massacre, which had its origins at Motael Church. It is also known as Monumento 12 De Novembro. Microlet local bus #9.

    Statue of Breaking the Chains of Colonialism – In Jardim 5 de Maio close to Hotel Timor is a statue showing the Timorese breaking the chains of colonialism, which was a “gift” from the Indonesian colonisers. Originally plain, it was painted and re-inaugurated by José Ramos-Horta in 2009. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #7, #9, and #10.

    Ponte Presidente BJ Habibie – Just past the fruit markets is a bridge named after former Indonesian President Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie. It was opened in 2019 to mark the 20th anniversary of the independence referendum which led to Timor-Leste becoming an independent country, and was understandably controversial. The Indonesian President made the referendum possible (after significant international pressure), but refused to allow a UN protection force, which may have prevented the Indonesian army and supporters killing thousands of Timorese and averted the widespread destruction that followed the referendum. Across from the bridge is a large local park, which is popular after sunset, as there is little shade from the sun during the day. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #10 and #12.

    Becusi Cemetery – Close to Taibesi Market, this is one of the largest cemeteries in the country. Many of the tombstones are lit at night by solar powdered LEDs, making it one of the few well lit parts of Dili at night. Microlet local bus #8.

    Chinese Hakka Cemetery – Also close to Taibesi Market (in the opposite direction), is this cemetery with quite different tombstone design. The size of the cemetery clearly demonstrates the long term presence of Chinese in the community in Timor-Leste. It was opened in 1889 on land donated by the colonial Portuguese government, and has around 1,500 tombs. Microlet local buses #4, #5, #7, and #8.

    Indonesian Military Cemetery – The Indonesian Military Cemetery (Taman Makam Pahlawan Seroja) lies across the road from Santa Cruz Cemetery. This is home to the graves of 697 Indonesian soldiers (only 243 of whom have been identified) who died while serving in then East Timor between 1975 and 1999. Microlet local buses #1 and #7.

    St Joseph Church of Aimutin – This huge church near Timor Plaza was designed to hold 1,200 people. Construction started in 2015 but they ran out of money and as of 2024 it is a concrete shell. They still hold masses outside the church though. Microlet local buses #3 and #10.

    Immaculate Conception Parish of Balide – Close to Santa Cruz Cemetery, this is one of the older and more attractive churches in Dili. Microlet local buses #1, #5, #7, and #9.

    Sacred Heart of Jesus Church – A large and beautiful church in Becora, in east Dili. It took 8 years and $2.1m to build, and was consecrated on 21 November 2021. Microlet local buses #1 and #2.

    Cave of Our Lady of Mount Golgotha – Located near to the airport, this man-made cave was built 1983-1985. It is a peaceful prayer location where Via Sacra is celebrated on Good Friday. Stations of the Cross lead up the hill to an excellent lookout. Microlet local bus #11.

    Evangelical Christian Church – Across the road opposite the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, this was built between 1962 and 1971, and was inaugurated by Chamber President Mario Carrascalão. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #9 and #10.

    Hosana Protestant Church – One of the largest Protestant churches in Timor-Leste, which has an attractive neighbouring traditional Timorese influenced building with a large hall on the first floor well worth exploring. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #9 and #10.

    Fundasaun Vihara Metta Prajna Dharma – An attractive Chinese Buddhist temple tucked away down a side street. Rarely open unfortunately. Microlet local buses #1 and #2.

    Antiga Fábrica de Cerâmica – At the western end of the Fatumeta maternity hospital lie the remains of a Portuguese colonial era ceramics works, where bricks and tiles were made. The main structures are largely intact and an interesting place to photograph. When independence hero Xanana Gusmão visited Dili during the Indonesian occupation he would hide at the factory. Microlet local bus #5.

    Cacusa Monument – Located on top of one of the highest hills in Dili, the Cacusa Monument, also known as “Christ Ascended to Heaven,” was built by the Parish Community of Santa Terezinha do Menino Jesus Bedois. It serves as a tourist site for religious activities and exercise. A big walk up into the Hera hills is required to reach it, or if you have a 4WD vehicle or good motorbike skills to tackle the steep, narrow and rough roads, you can drive to about 20 minutes walk away from the summit.

    Dare Memorial Museum and Café – This memorial opened in 1969 commemorates the Australian soldiers and the Timorese kriados who fought against the Japanese during WWII. There are information panels and an informative video that can be played. The café serves excellent drinks and pizzas. Dare is not easily accessible without your own transport, Dili taxi drivers have been known to charge $40 for the return trip.

    Dare Catholic Church – This attractive church was built in 1995 and renovated in 2018. It is also home to a seminary. It is located 1km to the north west of Dare Memorial Museum and Café.

    Saint John Paul II Church – Balibar – Visible for kilometres around, this is a landmark on the hills behind Dili. It was inaugurated in December 2021, and is only open for services. The church is not easily accessible without your own transport, unless you catch a local bus to Aileu and get off early.

    Sentru Estudu Mangrove – About 35 minutes drive east of Dili (but still within the Dili municipality) is a mangrove conservation area. Boardwalks have been installed to allow visitors to explore without damaging the fragile ecosystem. There are two lookouts, one above the sea, the other on a nearby hill, which offer great views. You are likely to see monkeys jumping through the trees. Entry $1. Note that the mangroves are not easily accessible without your own transport, unless you catch a local bus to Baucau and get off early.

    Natural Dye Training Center – Re-Loka is a local social enterprise NGO that undertakes initiatives to promote the capacities of persons who are left behind because they are differently challenged. A recent initiative is the establishment of a Natural Dye Training Center, which aims to preserve the knowledge and skills of the traditional Timor-Leste’s natural dyes. Keep an eye out on their Facebook page for the regular workshops they hold, or contact Hilly on +670 7514 2687.

    National Heroes Memorial – Just before crossing from Dili into Manatuto lies this moving memorial to the many Timorese who lost their lives in the cause of their country. Many were killed by the Indonesians during the brutal occupation, and their remains have recently been relocated to this huge site which is still under construction. Francisco Xavier do Amaral, the first President of Timor-Leste, who died in March 2012, is buried here. Note that the site is not easily accessible without your own transport, unless you catch a local bus to Baucau and get off early.

    Swimming

    The sea temperature in Dili only varies between 27°C / 81°F and 29°C / 84°F throughout the year, so you can swim at any time! The best place to do so is Areia Branca, by Caz Bar and Beachside restaurants, where the protected, shallow waters are ideal for children. Microlet local bus #12.

    There are no public swimming pools in Dili, but you may be able to use the pools at JL Villa, Golgota Hotel, and Novo Turismo, typically for $10.

    Snorkelling

    The reefs in Dili are just off-shore, making it an excellent place for snorkelling. The three most popular places are Cristo Rei Beach, Back Beach / Dolok Oan, and Tasi Tolu. You should be able to head into the water and swim for no more than 5 minutes before you find yourself above reefs filled with beautiful coral, colourful starfish, and schools of fish (if depleted due to fishing). Back Beach / Dolok Oan requires the most effort to reach, but is the most enjoyable. Conditions at Tasi Tolu can often be rough and visibility poor, although if you are lucky you might come across the resident dugong. Snorkel gear may be hired from dive companies (see the Snorkelling and Diving section), but not at the beaches themselves. Toilet and changing facilities are either non-existent or in such a poor state that they can’t be used. For more information on snorkelling in Dili visit Diliguide Snorkelling Guide.

    Diving

    Atauro Island may be the best known diving spot in Timor-Leste, but there are a number of incredible dive sites either in Dili, or just along the coast. Many of these sites can be accessed as shore dives, saving the time and expense of needing a boat. The three best known dive companies based in Dili are Dive Timor Lorosae (established in 2000), Aquatica (established in 2013), and Dreamers Dive Academy. All run regular trips to dive sites in and around Dili, generally at the weekends.

    Hiking

    Dili is blessed with incredible landscapes, and endless hills and trails, but unfortunately has a near complete absence of trail signage and until recently, very limited information online about the hikes possible. Detailed routes, logistical information and photos can be found at Timor-Leste Hiking Map. Also available online is an eBook – Exploring Timor-Leste on Foot: 30 Incredible Hikes, which includes 16 day hikes in Dili.

    A Dili institution for expats and locals is the Dili Saturday Walkers Facebook Group. They have been running for around a decade, and run walks almost every Saturday to various places in and around Dili. It is a great way to explore Dili in a safe fashion with other hikers.

    Mountain biking

    An increasingly popular activity in Dili, with groups of keen bikers (both locals and expats) heading up into the hills of Dare, behind Dili, early in the morning most days of the week.

    A few MTB focused companies have been established that can provide equipment and expertise. Comrider Adventure (+670 7718 4591) and Mountain Bike Timor-Leste (+670 7718 4591) are both based in Dili. Three good places for further information are Diliguide, Mountain Bike Timor-Leste, and the Timor-Leste MTB Facebook group.

    Shopping

    Tais Market – For high quality traditional Timorese tais (intricately woven cloth) and other hand woven items, wooden carvings, silver jewellery, rosary beads and other souvenir items. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #9 and #10.

    Taibesi Market – For an experience! One of the largest markets in the country, it can feel like almost anything can be bought here. The pleasure is in getting lost, taking in the atmosphere. Microlet local buses #4, #5, #7, and #8.

    Fruit Market – For delicious, and cheap, fruit and some vegetables. Expect to pay $1-2 for a large bunch of the most delicious bananas you’ve ever eaten, or $1 for half a dozen passion fruit. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #10 and #12.

    Things and Stories – Up market souvenir shop with branches at the airport, Hotel Timor, and Timor Plaza Hotel, that sells beautiful local, handmade goods sourced by the social enterprise from a network of over 800 artisans. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #6, #9 and #10.

    Rede Soru Na’in – Well-kept shop in the Pateo compound that sells tais and other handmade Timorese products. Opened in 2023, the store is operated by a network of women tais weavers. Microlet local buses #3, #4, #6, #9 and #10, then walk for 5 minutes.

    Alola Foundation – founded by the Xanana Gusmao’s wife, Dr. Kirsty Sword Gusmao, the foundation specifically supports women and children, and their shop sells handicrafts made by women from around the country. Microlet local buses #4, #5, #8 and #9.

    Timor Plaza – The only shopping mall in Timor-Leste. Opened in 2011, there are now ten or so buildings in the complex, with shops, restaurants, the only cinema in the country, and most satisfyingly – air conditioning! On Saturday evenings there is night market in the car park. Microlet local buses #3 and #10.

    Cooking classes

    If you are interested in learning how to cook Timorese food contact Uma Saudavel (+670 7590 8146), Agora Food Studio (+670 7785 9912), or Dilicious Timor (+670 7730 3301).

    Getting there

    All roads in Timor-Leste lead to Dili! As do all the international flights, all domestic ferries (Atauro Island and Oé-Cusse), all international buses from West Timor, and almost all domestic buses. Moving on from Dili can be more challenging, but getting here is relatively easy.

    Getting around

    Getting around Dili is relatively straightforward when you know how, though note that yellow taxis and microlets stop running after dark, and there is no street lighting!

    The most ‘fun’ and cheapest way to get around is by microlet (also called bemo), small buses that run on fixed routes to most places in Dili. They only cost 25c per trip (pay the driver through the passenger window after you get off), pick up and stop whenever you want (tap your money inside on the metal bars), and are super frequent between around 6am and 6pm. Downsides are that they really are small inside and the music can be deafening. If you’re male, and the front seat is available, take it!

    Some very kind (and patient) people have created a Dili Microlet Routes Map which shows the 13 routes (which can be toggled on / off) and a Google Map version which is useful to add to your phone. The key thing to bear in mind when using these maps is that there are many one way streets in Dili so you often can’t get on / off at the same place. You may need to either walk a couple of blocks or spend longer than you’d hoped on a microlet.

    There are two types of taxi in Dili. The yellow ones are more common but negotiation skills will be required, expect to typically pay $3-$6 for short trips around Dili, and at least $15 from the airport to anywhere. The blue ones are typically twice the price but operate on meters, run after dark, and have a better reputation. They need to be called on +670 774 27777 and may take a little while, so do ask how long it will take, and call back after five minutes to check on progress.

    Walking is also an option around the central city / waterfront but best done in the morning when it is relatively cooler, take plenty of water and sun protection, and watch out for the holes in the pavement! Cross the road at the pedestrian crossings (marked with white striped lines) where the traffic will generally stop for you if you start walking!

    Driving yourself around Dili in a car or on a motorbike or scooter is not advisable unless you have prior experience of driving in Southeast Asian traffic, particularly during one of the three rush hours during the week (8-10am, 12-2pm, and 5-7pm). Dili has an extensive series of one way streets (which aren’t all reflected on Google Maps), which can incur fines of $45 if driven down inadvertently. Traffic rarely abides by lanes or follows right of way rules that you may be familiar with. Motorbikes and scooters basically swarm around larger vehicles, and near misses are constant, though actual collisions appear surprisingly rare.