East Timor: Overview

The ambiguous taste of freedom is fresh in East Timor's mouth.

Welcome to East Timor, southeast Asia's newest nation. Independence has brought mixed fortunes to this recovering conflict zone, and it remains a country in transition. But it has fine beaches, colonial towns, rugged mountains and a lush interior, with Dili a taste of Portugal in the tropics.

Travel Warning: Fragile Security

Gang-related violence, robbery, assault and attacks on vehicles are regularly reported in East Timor - travellers are advised not to use taxis after dark. Visitors should also avoid any demonstrations or protests and heed local advice regarding safety. Travellers should check news services before attempting to enter East Timor via the West Timor border control.

Check out Safe Travel the New Zealand government warning site or the Thorn Tree travel forum for some good advice from travellers.

severity: High-level alert

Fast Facts

Country Full Name

Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

Population

998,000

Currency

Name: US Dollar
Code: USD
Symbol: US$

Electrical Plugs

Australian-style plug with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade European plug with two circular metal pins
220V 50 Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Portuguese, Tetum

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +9 

Country Dialing Code

+670

Weights & Measures

Metric

East Timor - Free Guidebook Chapter

East Timor - Pick & Mix Chapters

Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our East Timor guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the East Timor download page.

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

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