East Timor

Welcome to East Timor

Capital of East Timor: Dili
Population of East Timor: 1.6 million - 45th in Asia
Size of East Timor: 14,874 km2 - 41st in Asia
Languages in East Timor: Tetum, Portuguese, Indonesian, English

Rugged beaches lure many to take their holiday in East Timor, a former Portuguese colony that gained its independence in 2002 after a brutal occupation by Indonesia. With pristine reefs, steep mountains, mysterious jungle caves, and misty hillside villages, the country represents one of Asia's most charming destinations, where it's still possible to have an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Many choose to tour East Timor by car, stopping at various locations to snap photos, dive into the sea, and mingle with the locals at quaint settlements preserving age-old traditions lost to the rest of the world. Those preferring urban experiences concentrate on Dili, the ultra-relaxed capital with access to both sea and mountains.

Highlights

Admire diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty at Nino Konis National Park
Go scuba diving around Dili, Jaco and Atauro
Trek the exciting trails to the peak of Mount Ramelau
Enjoy the serene, sandy beach of Cape Fatucama while admiring the famed Statue of Jesus
Discover culture and history through local festivities and popular sites such as the Old Fort of Oecussi, Arte Moris Cultural Center and the 17th century Fort of Maubara