East Timor-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dili

  • Places to visit: National Museum of East Timor
  • Activities:
    • Explore the city’s colonial architecture and history
    • Visit the nearby market for a taste of local cuisine and handicrafts
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for a laid-back atmosphere and limited tourist infrastructure
    • Try some traditional East Timorese dishes like Ikan Pepes (steamed fish) or Nabut (boiled pork)
  • Visa requirements: No visa required for stays up to 30 days; check with the East Timor government’s website for updates
  • Transportation: Taxi from Dili International Airport to city center ( approx. $10-$15 USD)

Day 2: Explore the Coast

  • Places to visit:
    • Cristo Rei statue (Dili)
    • Maubassa Beach (Dili)
    • Baucau town (approx. 1 hour by car from Dili)
  • Activities:
    • Take a scenic drive along the coast and enjoy the beaches
    • Visit the historic Catholic Cathedral in Baucau
  • Things to know:
    • Be mindful of the coastal erosion and environmental concerns in some areas
    • Try your hand at snorkeling or swimming in the crystal-clear waters
  • Transportation: Rent a car for the day (approx. $30-$50 USD) or take a taxi from Dili

Day 3: Visit the Highlands

  • Places to visit:
    • Liquição town (approx. 1 hour by car from Dili)
    • Hera village (approx. 2 hours by car and 4WD vehicle from Dili)
  • Activities:
    • Explore the scenic countryside and villages
    • Visit the ancient stone megaliths in Hera
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for rugged terrain and possible road closures due to weather conditions
    • Respect local customs and traditions in rural areas
  • Transportation: Rent a 4WD vehicle from Dili (approx. $80-$120 USD) or take a taxi

Day 4: Island Hopping

  • Places to visit:
    • Atauro island ( approx. 2 hours by ferry from Dili)
    • Jaco island ( approx. 1 hour by ferry from Dili)
  • Activities:
    • Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Atauro
    • Relax on the pristine beaches of Jaco
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for unpredictable boat schedules and weather conditions
    • Try some local seafood delicacies
  • Transportation: Ferry from Dili (approx. $20-$30 USD) or take a speedboat (approx. $50-$70 USD)

Day 5: Return to Dili

  • Places to visit:
    • Historic fort in the city center
    • Night market for souvenirs and local cuisine
  • Activities:
    • Last-minute shopping or exploring
    • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the night market
    • Try some local desserts like Kokodi (coconut cream cake)