Travel Essentials › Timor-Leste
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types C, E, F and I, 220 V. Emergency: One number for everything 112. Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated. Tap water: Drink bottled or treated water..
Types C, E, F and I, 220 V
| One number for everything | 112 |
Not expected, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.
Greetings. A handshake is standard; take time for small talk and pleasantries before business, reflecting a relaxed, community-oriented culture.
Catholic and traditional customs. Timor-Leste is strongly Catholic with animist traditions (tais weaving, sacred houses/uma lulik); dress modestly and be respectful at churches and ceremonies.
Photographing people and ceremonies. Ask permission before photographing people or traditional ceremonies; some sacred sites and objects should not be touched or photographed.
Timor-Leste is rated a moderate-caution destination; most incidents are petty crime in Dili, plus health risks (mosquito-borne disease, unsafe tap water) and poor road conditions rather than serious violent crime.
Overcharging / fake tour operators. Inflated taxi fares and prices for tourists, plus unlicensed 'tour operators', are reported mainly in Dili; book through known guesthouses or agencies.
Online romance and 'authority' money scams. Scammers may pose as romantic interests or claim local officials require payment; never wire money on such requests.
Port/border 'helpers'. Unsolicited helpers at ports and border crossings may overcharge for basic assistance; agree on any fee in advance or decline.
Women travelers. Sexual harassment, including groping, is reported in Dili and elsewhere; women should avoid poorly lit streets at night and use trusted transport back from bars or restaurants.
Legal · Use Caution
Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but there are no anti-discrimination protections and the strongly Catholic, conservative culture means public displays of affection by any couple are uncommon and can draw unwanted attention.
| Coffee (café) | $2.60 (cappuccino) | $2.60 |
| Local bus or metro ride | $0.50-1 (microlet) | $0.50-1 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | $8-10 | $8-10 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | $10-15 | $10-15 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | $46-70 | $46-70 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | $85-90 | $85-90 |
2026-09
June to August is the best window, with the driest, most reliable weather; the wet season (December-May) can bring flooding and road closures.