The Southeast Asian nation of Timor-Leste occupies half of the island of the same name and is surrounded by coral reefs. The capital, Dili, is steeped in history and is home to the 27-m-high Cristo Rei de Dili statue. If you’re interested in architecture, you should visit this historical site to get a glimpse of the city’s skyline.
Jaco Island
When visiting Timor Leste, you should try visiting Jaco Island. It’s located in the south-east part of the country. When you arrive in Dili, you should turn left and walk east until you reach Tutuala, a small village perched on a cliff above the ocean. The village has a few guesthouses and restaurants, but there are also several campsites on the beach.
Jaco Island is the only island on Timor Leste that is entirely uninhabited and is located across Valu Beach in East-Timor. The island is surrounded by turquoise waters and is considered sacred by the local people. There are a few places where you can stay, and you’ll have the opportunity to watch the sunrise. But be aware that the island is so remote that you’re unlikely to find other people here.
After you’ve explored Jaco Island, you’ll want to stop and explore the surrounding area. The town of Baucau is a nice place to take a break on the journey to Jaco Island. You’ll find plenty to do in this picturesque town. If you have time, consider visiting the island’s mountain region, the Maubisse. These are both beautiful and untouched.
Dili
Dili is the capital city of Timor-Leste, located on the country’s north coast. The statue of Cristo Rei de Dili overlooks the city and bay, and the statue is a great place to observe the city’s vibrant history. Other landmarks in the city depict the nation’s struggles for independence. Once part of Portuguese colonial territory, Timor-Leste was invaded and ruled by Indonesia. https://madisonsdish.com/
If you’re visiting Dili as part of a Dili itinerary, don’t miss out on the city’s many cultural sights. A trip to the Resistance Museum in Dili is a must-do while visiting the capital. There are also free art classes available for visitors, as well as exhibits about the resistance movement. A full-day tour of Dili will include admission to the city’s top attractions, and you’ll probably want to end your trip with a night out on Beach Road.
If you have the time, you should visit the Cristo Rei statue. This statue is situated just behind the Cristo Rei beach. It is an important landmark and can be a great place to visit if you’re traveling on a budget. The statue is an excellent place to watch local people in their daily lives. While you’re there, be sure to take plenty of water – it can get very hot!
Bobonaro
When visiting Bobonaro, you can visit the local museum to learn more about the area’s 24 years of struggle against Indonesia. You can also see the remains of the Portuguese Court of Justice, which was destroyed during the violent events of 1999. If you’re looking for something closer to home, try searching for nearby restaurants. Or, you can try a different route and explore different towns. Make sure to check the road conditions in the area before starting your journey.
You’ll find plenty of local restaurants and bars, many of which have live music. If you’re on a budget, you can stay at one of the hostels or backpackers. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in a Timor Leste hotel, like the Discovery Inn. Located in a restored Portuguese colonial building in Dili, this property offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. https://notionpress.com/author/439023
Maubisse
For those looking for a relaxing, easygoing holiday, there are a few things to do in Maubisse. This small town is home to the Pousada de Maubisse, an elegant Portuguese colonial building converted into a guesthouse. You can stay in a bungalow or a suite with a view of the mountain range. A local guide will be more than happy to assist you with your planning.
For a fun day of sightseeing, visit the town’s market. You can buy inexpensive, handmade items at the market, which is best visited early in the morning when hundreds of people descend from nearby villages to trade. Those seeking to experience true Timor Leste culture will find this market an ideal location. Listed below are 10 fun things to do in Maubisse. You may also want to visit the nearby Dutch fort, which dates back to the 17th century.
While it’s impossible to visit every corner of Maubisse, you should take time to explore its history. Visit the Maubisse Market, where locals sell fresh fruits and vegetables. And once you’re done with your day’s activities, head to the beach and enjoy the sunset! The sunsets in Timor Leste are legendary. Do not miss this incredible experience. Keep reading for more ideas.
Atauro Island
If you’ve never been to the islands of the Coral Triangle, now is the time to visit! Atauro Island is located in the Timor Sea, north of Beloi and Barry’s Place. From atop the island, you can see the beautiful blue waters and clear sky. If you like snorkeling, the water is clear enough for you to see the coral reefs below.
Visit Atauro Island, a former jail and now a palm-lined island. Here you’ll find palm-lined beaches, biodiverse waters, and coral reefs that are accessible from shore. Another island worth visiting is Dili, the nation’s capital, wedged between the sea and mountains. The city is characterized by elegant Portuguese buildings and a lively waterfront. It’s also home to the Resistance Museum, a place where visitors can learn about the resistance that took place during the time of the Portuguese colonial period.
Diving is another excellent activity in Atauro. Whether you’re a novice or experienced diver, you’ll find world-class diving and snorkelling in Atauro Island. The island’s warm waters and varied reef ecosystems make it a great place to explore. Dive sites on the island include wall drop-offs, coral gardens, and fringing coastal reefs. The diverse aquatic fauna you’ll see is truly enchanting.
Liquica
One of the most intriguing places in the northern coast of Timor Leste is the town of Liquica. Located along the Coral Triangle, Liquica’s marine environment is a wonder to behold. A diverse variety of fish, coral reefs, and other organisms call the town home. A 19th century Portuguese fort and prison, known as the Aipelo, are other interesting places to visit.
For a spectacular view of Liquica, head to the former home of the town’s Administrator. Built in neoclassical style before 1910, this grand mansion features a magnificent staircase and a garden with a pool. During the Indonesian occupation, this building served as the administrator’s residence. Opposite the former administrator’s residence is a small park with many pavilions.
While you’re in Timor Leste, you should visit the city’s only large department store. It’s a must-visit if you’re planning to buy non-local products in the country. The store also features a cheap food court in the basement, and you can buy phones and other things here. If you’re traveling alone, you may want to consider staying in a guesthouse or home instead of renting an apartment.
Lake Ira Lalaro
Visit Lake Ira Lalaro, the largest freshwater lake in Timor Leste, and marvel at the scenery. You’ll enjoy the breathtaking scenery of half-submerged trees and swamps and take in the surreal beauty of the lake. Besides its mystical beauty, Ira Lalaro is home to hundreds of esturine crocodiles, some of which can grow up to five meters long.
If you’re a nature lover, you can spend an afternoon or evening snorkeling on the lake. Dive shops are everywhere. There are so many different species of fish, and you can’t help but feel a connection to nature. Try different types of fish, including tiger sharks, to see how they feed. Lake Ira Lalaro is one of the top 10 things to do in Timor Leste.
You can also take a boat ride on the lake. While boating, be sure to check the local tides before you jump in. In addition to the lake, take a boat trip to Tutuala, where you can swim and snorkel. Getting a cab ride to Cristo Rei is another great option. A taxi ride from the port will cost between three and five dollars.
Oecusse-Ambeno
The new international airport in Oecusse will bring beach lovers from Australia to the region. The sea off Oecusse is as clear and pristine as any other spot in Timor-Leste. With its new airport, Oecusse will be accessible by air, sea, or land from most parts of East Timor.
The earliest documented sandalwood trade in Timor dates back centuries before the Portuguese arrived. Many highlanders narrate the story of how beeswax collected in the region became important for Catholic worship. They also tell of the origins of ninik-abas, beeswax candle tribute items for kings. In one account, the newly converted Ambeno king sent a message to the head of a southern highland village, asking for beeswax and string. The village chief delivered them to the coast. The two needed them for candlemaking.
When visiting Oecusse-Ambendo, make sure to bring your COVID-19 vaccination certificate and a valid travel permit. You will also need to get a medical checkup. If you’ve got the disease, you will need to quarantine yourself for 14 days. It’s best to get tested for COVID-19 before visiting Timor-Leste.