Welcome to Timor-Leste

As Southeast Asia’s newest country, Timor-Leste is emerging as a must-see spot for world travelers. There are pristine reefs to dive along the north coast and Ataúro, museums to wander through in Dili, traditions to learn about and mountains to hike.

Come discover the welcoming country’s arts and crafts, beaches, birding, dolphins, dining, local markets and boisterous festivals, mountain biking and more. It’s an easy flight to the capital of Dili from Bali, Singapore or Australia, or from the Indonesian side of the island, West Timor. Timor-Leste is new, adventurous and waiting for you.

Unique Facts

• Archaeologists estimate that Timor-Leste’s history dates back 30,000 years. There are face carvings dating back 10,000 years and painting from 6,000 years ago.
• Trekkers enjoy Timor-Leste’s mountainous territory, where the tallest peak, Mount Ramelau, is 9,797 feet high.
• Although there are just two official languages, more than 40 dialects are spoken in Timor-Leste.
• Hydrocarbon is the most important economic product. It comes from offshore natural gas deposits.
• The only national park in the country is Nino Knois Santana, covering 477 square miles, which include the Coral Triangle and important bird sanctuaries.

Language

Timor-Leste’s official languages are Tetun Language and Portuguese.

When To Go

The best time to go to Timor-Leste is May to October.

Airports

Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Timor-Leste: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A, Malaria and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C, E, F and I. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

United States Dollar

Getting Around

The roads in Timor-Leste are often poorly maintained and poorly lit. Roads in Dili are particularly hazardous and are shared with large trucks, buses and mikrolets, as well as vendors and pedestrians. From November to May, rain makes some of the roads particularly risky.

Public transportation includes taxis, small buses and minivans, although all are usually overcrowded and below international safety standards.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Dili,Timor Leste
Av. de Portugal
Praia dos Coqueiros
Dili, Timor-Leste
Telephone: +(670) 332-4684
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(670) 7723-1328
Fax: +(670) 331-3206
ConsDili@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourist Office
Rua Avenida de Portugal
Farol, Dili
Timor-Leste
info@timorleste.tl

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 331 1044/723 3212
Police: 112 or 723 0635
Fire: 331 2210/332 4019/723 0686

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Timor-Leste. Crimes include pickpocketing, purse snatching and residential and vehicle break-ins. Avoid traveling at night or alone in unfamiliar areas. Women should always avoid traveling alone or taking taxis alone.