drink! Fishermen unload all kinds of fish, squid and lobsters on the beach, making this one of the best places to find the freshest seafood in Dili. In the afternoon, join the boys in their daily games of football – an excellent way to meet the local people. Peddlers sell cold drinks, snacks and satay all day and into the evening. The nearby island of Atauro can be reached by charted boat or the new ferry service.

Strongly Roman Catholic, Dili features many churches. A massive statue of Christ on the nearby headland at Cape Fatucama is reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro. From the various stops on the way up to Jesus there are magnificent views of Dili and also the coast stretching to the west. There are good beaches a few kilometers outside of Dili in both directions with snorkeling and diving possible within 15 minutes drive from the main government buildings. The most popular beach area is the sheltered cove of Areia Branca, also known as Pasir Putih (or white sands in English) just before you get to Jesus.

The Santa Cruz Cemetery near Taibesi is also worth visiting. It was here in 1991 that the world was first alerted on a wide scale to the suffering and injustice that the Timorese were experiencing under Indonesian rule.

Beyond Dili
Baucau
Timor Leste’s second largest town is a spectacular three hour drive from Dili along the coast via Manatuto. With a cool climate and outstanding beaches, nearby Baucau is an essential stop on any trip eastwards. The country’s first Hospitality training facility, the Pousada de Baucau, has recently opened. Boasting excellent accommodation, high service standards and an emphasis on quality food, this spectacularly “pink palace” is well worth a visit.

The beach at Baucau is a deserted haven that offers cool ocean breezes, fantastic camping under the shade of the palm trees and phenomenal sunsets. After the drive down from Baucau simply follow the road left until you reach the Portuguese ruins.

From Baucau you can also cut across the island and head for Viqueque. This region was once an important source of sandalwood and teak and the remaining forests are lush and dense due to the high amounts of rainfall that the area receives. Journeys can be difficult during the wet season so be sure to take travel advice before you set out.

Maubisse
Maubisse and Aileu are old hill towns that are an easy day trip from the heat of Dili. This region is the main coffee growing area of Timor Leste. Between the periods of June and September it’s possible to witness the coffee harvest and its processes. At Maubisse the former government rest house, now known as the Pousada, has been converted into a hotel. With 360 degree views, spectacular mountain scenery and cool weather, this is an absolute must for any visitor to Timor Leste.

You can also use Maubisse as a base for walking up Mount Ramelau. To do this, drive to Hatobuilico, this is at the base of the mountain. The drive takes about 45 minutes. The walk up the forested slopes, takes around 3 hours to reach the summit which offers fantastic views that stretch from Ata‘uro in the north, all the way to the South coast. The forest on the plateau just before the summit offers protection against the worst of the elements if you are camping overnight. With its petrified trees and early morning mist the magical feeling of being at the top of Timor Leste is simply fantastic. Be sure to pack wet weather gear and to take water if you are climbing Mount Ramelau.

Same
The district of Manufahi’s capital, same, offers a fantastic base for exploring the South Coast of East Timor. The people here are friendly