Arrival and Airport Transfers

Dili International Airport (DIL) has flights to and from destinations such as Bali and Darwin. The airport is about a 10-minute drive from the city center. You can take a taxi or arrange a hotel transfer, usually costing around USD 5–10. It’s recommended to pre-book your pickup if arriving late at night.

Local Transport

• Taxis: In Dili, taxis operate on a negotiated fare basis. Short trips typically cost around USD 1–5. Always confirm the price before getting in, as most taxis do not use meters.
• Minibuses (mikrolet): These are the everyday transport option for locals, running fixed routes at low fares. However, their schedules and stops are not very tourist-friendly, making them more suitable for travelers accompanied by a local.
• Renting a Car or Hiring a Private Driver: The most practical option for visiting outer areas or taking longer trips. It’s advisable to hire a local driver to handle complex road conditions. If driving yourself, an international driver’s license is required, and you should carefully assess road conditions.

Inter-city and Island Transport

• Private Car Hire: Travel from Dili to places like Baucau or Maubisse is mainly done by private car, with costs calculated by day or distance. It’s usually necessary to book at least one day in advance.
• Atauro Island: Accessible by ferry or speedboat from Dili’s dock. Sea conditions may affect schedules, so it’s best to confirm in advance and bring motion sickness medication.
• Domestic Flights: Small planes operate to more remote areas like Oecusse, but flights are limited and should be booked well in advance.

Tickets and Useful Tools

East Timor does not have a unified public transport card or monthly pass system. Taxis and private car hires are paid in cash, so it’s advisable to carry small-denomination U.S. dollars. Offline maps are useful as internet access can be limited in remote areas. Hotels and travel agencies can often help book private transfers and ferry tickets, which is generally more convenient than negotiating prices yourself.

Tips

• Road conditions are generally basic, with steep slopes and sharp turns in mountainous areas—avoid driving at night.
• Gas stations are mostly located in towns, so fill up before long journeys.
• Download offline map packs in advance, as network coverage is often unavailable in remote regions.
• Agree on the daily rate for private car hires in advance, and clarify whether fuel and the driver’s meals are included.