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Construction on the President Nicolau Lobato International Airport expansion is ongoing in late 2025, so expect some logistical adjustments upon arrival. While the runway extension project has progressed to allow slightly larger aircraft, the main passenger terminal upgrades are still in phases, meaning arrival facilities remain basic compared to European standards. Passengers currently deplane via stairs and walk across the tarmac to the immigration hall, which can be congested during the arrival of the daily Bali or Singapore flights. Allow 45-60 minutes to clear customs and collect bags due to the limited belt capacity during this transition period.

Yes, December marks the beginning of the wet season in Timor-Leste, and dengue cases typically spike during this period. Health authorities often issue advisories in late 2025 urging visitors to take rigorous precautions against mosquito bites, particularly during dawn and dusk. Unlike malaria, there is no prophylactic pill for dengue, so your best defense is high-DEET repellent and wearing long sleeves, especially if you are staying in Dili’s urban areas where transmission is higher. If you experience sudden high fever or joint pain, seek medical attention immediately at the Stamford Medical Clinic or HNGV hospital.

Yes, the land border crossing at Batugade/Mota’ain is open, but procedures have tightened as of late 2025 regarding “visa run” behavior. While you can cross into Indonesian West Timor (Atambua or Kupang) and return, immigration officials may request proof of onward travel or sufficient funds if they suspect you are living in Dili on tourist visas. Ensure you have the Indonesian Visa on Arrival (approx. €32) generally payable in cash or online beforehand, and check if Timor-Leste requires a new arrival card for re-entry. It is a 3-4 hour drive from Dili to the border on improved but winding coastal roads.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is non-negotiable for Timor-Leste. The local healthcare system is limited, and the National Hospital in Dili lacks the facilities to handle serious trauma or complex medical emergencies. If you suffer a serious injury or illness, you will likely need to be airlifted to Darwin (Australia) or Singapore, a flight that can cost upwards of €25,000-40,000 without insurance. Ensure your policy explicitly covers “medical repatriation” and check if it includes adventure activities if you plan on diving or hiking.

You must exercise extreme caution as saltwater crocodiles are present along the coastline, including areas relatively close to Dili. While popular spots like Areia Branca and the beaches on Atauro Island are generally considered safer and frequented by expats, attacks have occurred in rivers and estuaries along the coast. Always ask locals or your hotel about current crocodile activity before entering the water, and never swim in murky water or near river mouths. For guaranteed safety, stick to hotel pools or the clear waters of Atauro Island and Jaco Island.

Airport taxis are the standard option, typically costing a fixed fare of $10 (€9.50) to most hotels in central Dili. There are no metered taxis, so confirm the price with the driver before loading your luggage, though the $10 rate is fairly standard for tourists. Avoid walking out to the main road to catch a microlet (minibus) with luggage, as they are crowded and not designed for suitcases. Many hotels offer shuttle services for a similar or slightly higher fee, which is the most stress-free method for first-time visitors arriving after a long flight from Europe.

Portuguese is an official language, but it is primarily spoken by the older generation, government officials, and the educated elite, rather than the general public. The lingua franca is Tetum, which borrows heavily from Portuguese, so you will recognize many words (e.g., “Obrigado” for thank you), but full conversation in Portuguese may be difficult with taxi drivers or market vendors. English proficiency is growing among the youth and in the tourism sector, but learning a few basic phrases in Tetum will open far more doors and earn you immense respect from the locals.

December is the start of the wet season in Timor-Leste, characterized by high humidity and frequent, heavy downpours, usually in the late afternoon or evening. Temperatures hover around 30-32°C (86-90°F), making it steamy and intense for travelers not used to the tropics. While the rain turns the brown landscape into a lush green, it can also cause landslides that block mountain roads to Maubisse or Mt. Ramelau. If you plan to hike or travel to the districts, be prepared for travel delays and bring waterproof gear, though mornings are often clear and sunny.