Timor-Leste Travel Tips

Time Difference
GMT+9 hours

Population
1.1 million

Language
Tetun, Portuguese, Bahasa and English
The Tetun Translator can provide simple translation from English to Tetun. Learn Tetun at Lorosa’e English Language Institute

Climate
Tropical humid, 25-35C lowlands and cooler inland

Rainfall
Dry season May-November; wet season December- April

Tele-communications
Good mobile phone coverage (main centres).  To get set up bring an unlocked handset and buy a SIM card and credit on arrival.  Internet is readily available but speed is relatively slow

Electricity
Limited duration in some outlying areas and outages can occur (so torch is useful).  Electricity plugs vary so it’s wise to being an adapter

Driving
Valid driving licence required when hiring vehicles/motorcycles; Note: must be carried while driving

Health
Comprehensive travel insurance highly recommended

Travel Agencies
Available in Dili for international flight arrangements

Tipping
Not expected, but appreciated

Cultural
Do ask before taking photos of people, seek permission before visiting sacred sites or communities and wearing modest dress is appreciated especially in the districts

Environmental
Please do not litter, light fires, purchase souvenirs made from endangered species e.g. turtles and touch or take other marine species e.g. coral and shells

Freshwater
In some locations, fresh water is limited so please use sparingly in this case

Best Diving
May-November

Best Trekking
May-November

Best Fishing
November-March

Passport Validity
Minimum 6 months from arrival

Visa
Obtained on arrival at airport (USD30 -Tourist and Business Class); Note: no money changing facilities at airport

Currency
USD; banks will change foreign currencies if needed

Credit Cards
MasterCard will not work anywhere. In Dili ATMs available but only accept VISA, limited EFPOS facilities and only larger hotels, tour and dive companies accept credit cards.  In districts limited ATMs, banks or credit cards/EFPOS facilities. When travelling in districts bring small notes as larger denominations hard to change