Timor Leste 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Dili

Places to Go:

  1. National Parliament of Timor-Leste: Visit the iconic parliament building, a symbol of the country’s independence.
  2. Cristo Rei de Motael: A large statue of Jesus Christ overlooking Dili. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.
  3. Santa Cruz Cemetery and Memorial: A poignant reminder of Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence, this cemetery is a must-visit.
  4. Comoro Market: Experience local life at one of Dili’s largest markets selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts.
  5. Tais Market (Traditional Market): Browse through traditional Timorese arts and crafts made by local artisans.
  6. Noiana Beach: Relax and unwind at this beautiful beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Activities:

  1. Join a guided city tour to learn more about the country’s history and culture.
  2. Try some traditional Timorese dishes like balacai (spicy shrimp soup) or tapo (cassava leaves with pork).
  3. Visit a local café or bar in Dili’s hip districts, like Santa Cruz or Hera.

Things to Know:

  1. Timor-Leste is a predominantly Catholic country. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.
  2. English is widely spoken, but Portuguese is the official language.
  3. The local currency is US Dollars. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always good to have cash on hand.
  4. Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water.
  5. Internet connection can be unreliable, especially in rural areas.

Visa Requirements:

Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and most European countries, can enter Timor-Leste visa-free for up to 30 days. However, it’s always best to check the latest requirements with your local embassy or consulate.

Transportation:

Taxis are widely available in Dili. Motorbike taxis, known as “beaja,” are also common and cheaper than regular taxis. Renting a car is another option, but driving can be challenging due to poor road conditions and lack of signage.

Day 2: Adventure in the Countryside

Places to Go:

  1. Maubisse: A picturesque mountain town known for its stunning landscapes and traditional market.
  2. Laclocha Waterfall: Take a dip in the refreshing waters of this beautiful waterfall.
  3. Soibada Village: Visit this historic village, where Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence began.

Activities:

  1. Join a guided hike to explore the countryside and meet local villagers.
  2. Try traditional coffee at one of the many coffee plantations in the region.
  3. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Timorese dishes.

Things to Know:

  1. The roads can be narrow and steep, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
  2. Always ask permission before taking photos of local people.
  3. Remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
  4. Some rural areas may not have ATMs or places to exchange money, so make sure you have enough cash before leaving Dili.

Transportation:

The best way to get to Maubisse and surrounding areas is by renting a car or joining a guided tour. Buses are also available but less frequent. Always negotiate the price before starting your journey.