Dili Travel Guide
When East Timor broke free of Indonesian occupation in the early 21st century, Dili found itself thrust to capital status. The result is a beachside community with big aspirations and plenty of laid-back atmosphere.
- Worth It?
- Dili appeals to the breed of traveler who passes on structured holidays in favor of endless days on the beach. It is not for vacationers in search of five-star pampering.
- What to Do
- scuba diving over pristine reefs, basking on deserted beaches, taking in the colonial architecture, island hopping, dining out at inexpensive seafood restaurants, enjoying the view from Mout Ramalau.
- Best Time to Go
- the July and August cool season, if you can call it that, is the best time to visit.
- How Long?
- Two days for sightseeing, longer for diving and leisure.
- Trivia
- Dili is the world's youngest capital, founded when East Timor became an independent nation in 2002.
The transition to capital status was admittedly rough around the edges, especially since so much of the conflict with Indonesia was centered here. What little infrastructure there was burned between 1999 and 2002, leaving a laundry list of rebuilding campaigns. There are no five-star hotels or fancy restaurants, but most of Dili's visitors wouldn't be interested if there were.
Budget travelers are the main demographic, but be warned: East Timor's ATM system is riddled with fees and surcharges that often exceed the total amount withdrawn. Stretch your finances longer by withdrawing large amounts or better yet, show up with a stash of traveler's checks and US dollars in your money belt.
The city core holds a collection of Portuguese colonial buildings that help tell the story of East Timor's perpetual occupation. When the Portuguese withdrew in 1975, Indonesia showed up and added architectural layers like the new cathedral and Jesus Statue.
Diving is an obsession with Dili's visitors, drawn by the 'untouched' reefs that won't be able to claim that title much longer. Diving operators in Dili lead tours to Artauro and Jaco islands, where the clear waters and diversity of aquatic life are exceptional.
At its heart, Dili is a haven for independent travelers who shy away from holiday infrastructure in all its forms. These are the kinds of people you'll meet holed away in budget guest houses - travelers who came for a brief vacation and ended up staying weeks or longer.
Travel to Dili - Getting There
East Timor's Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport is situated about four miles west of town and offers a lackluster list of connections to Bali, Singapore and Australia. There aren't many carriers jockeying for your business so fares are high in every season. The overland route to Indonesia connects through Batugade in two hours.
Dili Things to Do
Dili Attractions
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