Timor Leste 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Dili Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (DIL) in Dili, the capital city of Timor-Leste
  • Obtain a visa on arrival (free for citizens of certain countries, including the US, EU, and Australia; otherwise, USD 30)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up

Afternoon

  • Visit the Tais Market, a bustling marketplace where you can find local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs
  • Explore the Dili Waterfront, a scenic area with views of the sea and surrounding hills
  • Stop by the Timor-Leste Resistance Museum to learn about the country’s struggle for independence

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Dili’s many restaurants, serving a mix of Timorese, Portuguese, and Indonesian cuisine
  • Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sunset

Day 2: Atauro Island Getaway

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Dili to Atauro Island (approximately 3 hours), known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs
  • Check-in to your beachfront accommodation, such as the Atauro Island Beach Resort

Afternoon

  • Snorkel or dive at one of the island’s many dive sites, including the famous Dive Site No. 1
  • Relax on the beach or explore the island by motorbike

Evening

  • Enjoy a seafood barbecue dinner at your resort
  • Watch the stars come out over the ocean

Day 3: Baucau and Venilale

Morning

  • Return to Dili by ferry and drive to Baucau (approximately 2 hours), a historic town with Portuguese colonial architecture
  • Visit the Baucau Old Town, including the fort and church

Afternoon

  • Head to Venilale (approximately 1 hour), known for its traditional Timorese villages and scenic views
  • Explore the village and surrounding countryside by foot or motorbike

Evening

  • Return to Dili in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants
  • Reflect on your adventures in Timor-Leste

Things to Know

  • Language: Tetum and Portuguese are the official languages, but Indonesian and English are also widely spoken
  • Currency: US Dollar (USD) is the official currency, although the East Timor Centavo (CT) is also used
  • Culture: Timorese culture is a mix of traditional and colonial influences; respect local customs and traditions
  • Safety: Timor-Leste is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings

Transportation

  • Flights: Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (DIL) receives flights from Bali, Indonesia, and Darwin, Australia
  • Ferries: Regular ferry services connect Dili with Atauro Island and other coastal towns
  • Land Transport: Taxis, buses, and motorbikes are available for hire; drive on the right-hand side of the road

Other Things of Interest

  • Tatamailau: A scenic town known for its traditional villages and stunning views (approximately 2 hours from Dili)
  • Jacquie’s Restaurant: A popular restaurant in Dili serving a mix of Timorese, Portuguese, and Indonesian cuisine
  • Timor-Leste Coffee: Try a cup of locally-grown coffee at one of the many cafes in Dili