Timor Leste Journey Starts Here: One Island Two Nations!

Booking Overview Highlights Includes/Excludes Itinerary Tour Map Cancellation Faqs Services Reviews

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Overview

Duration:3 days 0 nights
Travelers:2 - 10 guests
Language:Indonesian, Portugese

Ready to Discover Timor Leste: Bumi Loro Sae?

Step into a land where tradition and Two Nations Unite amidst untouched nature, and feel the heartfelt warmth of Timor-Leste embrace you.

Embark on a scenic one-way journey from Dili to Atambua, weaving through breathtaking coastal routes via Tasi-Tolu, Liquiça, and Maubara.

Along the way, explore remnants of colonial history, including Maubara Fort and the haunting ruins of Aipelo Prison.

Continue to the border town of Balibo, where you’ll uncover the powerful story of the Balibo Five and visit the historical fort.

As you cross into West Timor, embrace a rich cross-cultural experience between Timor-Leste and Indonesia.

The journey continues to the iconic Savana Fulan Fehan, a vast open landscape framed by Mount Lakaan—perfect for photography and reflection.

Discover traditional Boti and Belu culture through local crafts and stories. Conclude your trip in Atambua, where vibrant markets and warm hospitality await.

This route offers not just a transfer, but a deep and meaningful immersion into the cultural and natural wonders of both nations.

Tasi-Tolu
Tasi Tolu is a culturally and historically significant site located about 8 km west of Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste. The name "Tasi Tolu" means "Three Seas" in Tetum, referring to the three saline lakes found there.
Three Salt Lakes
These lakes are seasonal and shallow, with a unique ecosystem attracting birdlife, especially during the rainy season. The area is peaceful and photogenic, with dramatic reflections during sunrise or sunset.
Pope John Paul II Statue A towering statue of Pope John Paul II
Built to commemorate his 1989 visit to Timor-Leste. Located on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views of the Dili coastline and the surrounding hills — a beautiful spot for reflection and photos.
Liquiça
Liquiça is a coastal town and district located about 30 kilometers west of Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste. It’s one of the country’s most historically rich and scenic areas, making it a key stop on any west coast tour route.
Maubara Fort
Built by the Dutch in the 18th century, Maubara Fort was originally constructed as a trading post and military stronghold. Later, it was taken over by the Portuguese when they gained control of the area, making it a rare example of overlapping Dutch and Portuguese colonial influence in Timor. The fort is built with thick stone walls in a square shape, complete with watchtowers at each corner, facing the sea
Batugade
The last border town before Indonesia, and settle into your accommodation. A meeting point of Timorese and Indonesian cultures—you’ll hear Tetum, Bahasa Indonesia, and local Belu dialects. Great photo ops of border‑post architecture and the quiet river valley
Balibo Fort and The Balibo Five
The town is also home to a well-preserved 17th-century Portuguese fort, built to defend the western frontier. The fort offers panoramic views of the hills and valleys, and today hosts cultural programs, events, and a guesthouse.
Mota’ain border checkpoint (passport required).
The Mota’ain Border Checkpoint is the main official land border crossing between Timor-Leste and Indonesia, specifically connecting the towns of Batugade (Timor-Leste) and Atambua (Indonesia). It plays a key role in trade, travel, and diplomacy between the two countries.
Fulan Fehan Savana
A vast green savanna, especially lush during the rainy season, and turns golden in the dry season. Often dotted with wild horses and grazing cattle, with Mount Lakaan towering in the background. The scenery makes it a favorite spot for photography, drone footage, and sunrise or sunset viewing
Traditional Boti & Belu: Guardians of West Timor's Indigenous Wisdom
They are one of the last communities in Indonesia that have formally rejected outside influence, preserving a pure form of Timorese indigenous life. Visits are allowed but must be respectful and guided. The Belu people are the main ethnic group in Belu Regency, where Atambua is the capital. They are known for their rich culture, traditional rituals, and strong community identity.
Atambua - The capital of Belu Regency in West Timor
It’s a place where Timorese and Indonesian cultures blend, especially after many refugees from Timor-Leste settled here post-1999.

Includes/Excludes

Airport Transfer Return
Local Guide With Bilingual Support (English & Tetum/Bahasa Indonesia)
Our friendly Travel Guides are specially trained to lead your adventure, share fun moments, and make every stop unforgettable with cultural and historical stories.
2 Nights Stay (Batugade & Atambua)
In a Twin-Share Room With a Private Bathroom.
Private Car Service Between The Various Internal Locations
Minivan with a driver from day 1 to day 3
Lunch and Dinner
Lunch and dinner are included at local restaurants during the tour, giving you the perfect opportunity to discover local flavors and hidden gems
Entrance And Parking Fee Between The Various Internal Locations
All Tourist Destination Object

Tipping Guide
Tipping your guide is not required, but always appreciated for their hard work and warm hospitality

Itinerary

Day 1 - Coastal History & Colonial Echoes

Dili – Tasi-Tolu – Liquiça – Maubara – Batugade

Depart from Dili after breakfast.
Enjoy a scenic coastal drive through Tasi-Tolu, known for its three salt lakes and the Pope John Paul II statue.
Continue to Liquiça, visiting the historic church and remnants of Portuguese-era colonial buildings.
Stop at Maubara Fort, a well-preserved 17th-century Dutch fortress with ocean views.
Lunch in Maubara with local Timorese flavors.
Travel onward to Batugade, the last border town before Indonesia, and settle into your accommodation.
Optional sunset walk along the coast or mingle with the local community.

📍Overnight: Batugade Accomodation
🍴Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2 - Shared Histories & Border Crossing

Batugade – Balibo – Atambua (Indonesia)

Morning visit to Balibo, a town steeped in history.
Explore the Balibo Fort and visit the Balibo Five House, dedicated to the journalists who lost their lives during the Indonesian invasion.
Cross into Indonesia at the Mota’ain border checkpoint (passport required).
Continue the journey to Atambua, the capital of Belu Regency in West Timor.
City tour of Atambua: local markets, churches, and war memorials.
Enjoy Indonesian-Timorese fusion dinner with cultural storytelling.

📍Overnight: Atambua Accomodation
🍴Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 - Natural Wonders & Cultural Landscapes

Atambua – Fulan Fehan – Departure/ Extension

Morning drive to the stunning savannah of Fulan Fehan, known for its rolling hills, sacred megaliths, and traditional Boti and Belu culture.
Photo opportunities at the Mount Lakaan backdrop and grazing wild horses.
Cultural interaction with the local community, traditional weaving demo or ritual dance (subject to availability).
Return to Atambua for lunch and tour conclusion.

🚐 Tour ends in Atambua — guests may continue overland to Kupang or fly out (depending on schedule).

Find Your Flight

For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.

Arrival

Nicolau Lobato International ( DILI) Airport

Departure

Nicolau Lobato International ( DILI) Airport

Tour Map

Cancellation policy

You can cancel up to 168 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Frequently asked questions

How can I pay in Timor Leste?

- Cash most common method, especially outside Dili or in small businesses.
- Keep small denominations like $1, $5, $10 for convenience.
- Some small coins in circulation are in centavos (local coins), but these are pegged to the USD.
- Always carry cash in USD, especially for remote areas.

What's the currency in Timor Leste?

- USD (United States Dollar) is the official currency, so visitors should bring or withdraw USD.
- Some small coins in circulation are in centavos (local coins), but these are pegged to the USD.
- Always carry cash in USD, especially for remote areas.
- Ask in advance if a business accepts cards.
- Keep small denominations like $1, $5, $10 for convenience.
- Ensure your bank card works internationally and inform your bank of your travel.

How’s the internet in Timor Leste? Should I get a SIM card?

- Internet in Timor-Leste is available, but it’s still developing and has limitations—especially outside of major cities like Dili.
- Dili has the best coverage and fastest speeds (suitable for emails, browsing, light Zoom calls). Outside Dili, the connection is less reliable and may drop frequently.
- Widely used by locals and visitors.
- 4G coverage is available in Dili and some major towns.
- 3G or no service in rural or mountainous areas.
- Buy a local SIM card (inexpensive and easy).
- Choose a data plan, often available in daily/weekly packages.
- Available in most hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes in Dili.