East Timor-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Dili

  • Morning: Arrive at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (DIL)
    • The airport is small but efficiently managed. You’ll find a few cafes, restaurants, and shops within the terminal.
    • Take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of East Timor
    • Learn about the country’s history, culture, and daily life through exhibits featuring traditional clothing, artifacts, and artworks
    • The museum is a great place to start understanding the complexities of East Timor’s past and present
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Bistrot du Jour
    • This restaurant serves local and international cuisine in a cozy atmosphere 2:00 PM: Explore the Dili Market
    • Browse through various stalls selling traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and local produce
    • Haggling is part of the fun, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices
  • Evening: Enjoy a Sunset View at Cristo Rei Monument
    • This 27-meter-tall statue offers panoramic views of Dili Bay and the surrounding landscape
    • Take a stroll around the monument’s grounds for a peaceful atmosphere

Day 2: Baucau and Jaco Island

  • Morning: Drive to Baucau (approximately 1.5 hours)
    • Visit the Baucau Market, where you can buy local produce, handicrafts, and try some traditional snacks
    • Explore the town’s historic center and visit the Baucau Cathedral
  • Lunch: Enjoy a seafood lunch at Restaurant Jaco Island on Jaco Island (approximately 30 minutes from Baucau)
    • The restaurant serves fresh seafood, including lobster and fish
    • Relax on the island’s beach or take a snorkeling trip to explore the surrounding coral reefs
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tatamailau National Park (optional)
    • This park features stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and diverse wildlife
    • The trek can be challenging, but the scenery is breathtaking
  • Evening: Return to Dili for a relaxing evening

Day 3: Maubisse and Liquica

  • Morning: Drive to Maubisse (approximately 1 hour)
    • Visit the Maubisse Market, where you can buy local produce, handicrafts, and try some traditional snacks
    • Explore the town’s historic center and visit the Maubisse Cathedral
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Restaurant Liquica (approximately 30 minutes from Maubisse)
    • The restaurant serves local cuisine, including fish and other seafood options
    • Relax on the nearby beach or take a snorkeling trip to explore the surrounding coral reefs
  • Afternoon: Visit the Liquica Beach, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax
  • Evening: Return to Dili for your departure

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter East Timor. Check with the embassy or consulate of East Timor in your home country for requirements and application procedures.
  • Transportation: Taxis, shuttles, and rental cars are available in Dili. You can also use public transportation, such as buses and trucks, but be prepared for a bumpy ride.
  • Safety and Security: Exercise caution when walking alone at night or carrying valuables. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying signs of wealth.
  • Health and Medical Care: Consult with your doctor before traveling to East Timor if you have any health concerns. Basic medical care is available in Dili, but more advanced medical facilities may not be readily available.

Other Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or attending cultural events.
  • Learn a Few Words of Tetum: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “hello” (tolak), “thank you” (akatu), and “goodbye” (bai).
  • Bargain at Markets: Haggling is part of the fun when shopping at markets. Be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when exploring the outdoors.

Important Phone Numbers

  • Emergency Services: 112
  • Police: 115
  • Tourist Information Office: +670 773 1313

Accommodation Suggestions

  • Hotel Turismo: A comfortable hotel in Dili with basic amenities and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
  • Hotel Esmeralda: A mid-range hotel with clean rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving international dishes.
  • Liquica Beach Resort: A beachfront resort near Liquica Beach with spacious rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving seafood options.

Restaurant Suggestions

  • Bistrot du Jour: A cozy restaurant in Dili serving local and international cuisine.
  • Restaurant Jaco Island: A seafood restaurant on Jaco Island with fresh lobster and fish dishes.
  • Liquica Restaurant: A beachfront restaurant near Liquica Beach serving local cuisine.

Safety Precautions

  • Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical, trip cancellations, and delays.
  • Credit Card Safety: Use a credit card with chip technology for added security against counterfeit cards.
  • Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables secure in your accommodation or use a lockbox when exploring the outdoors.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit East Timor is during the dry season, from May to September. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, swimming, and hiking. Avoid visiting during the wet season (October to April), as heavy rainfall can make roads and attractions less accessible.

Getting Around

The best way to get around East Timor is by renting a car or hiring a taxi. Public transportation, such as buses and trucks, are also available but may not be readily available in all areas. Be prepared for bumpy rides on dirt roads, especially when traveling to rural areas.

Currency

The official currency of East Timor is the US dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still king in many places. Consider carrying a mix of local and international currencies for convenience.

Language

Tetum is the official language of East Timor, but Portuguese and Indonesian are also widely spoken. Many locals speak basic English, especially among the younger population and those in the tourism industry.