Timor-Leste: Whales & Wonders (8D7N)
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Whale Watching in the Ombai-Wetar Strait, Timor-Leste
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Sperm whales in the Ombai-Wetar Strait, Timor-Leste
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Beach and turquoise ocean along the coast of Timor-Leste
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Dolphins swimming in sky-blue waters off the coast of Timor-Les
Overview
As an emerging hotspot in Southeast Asia, Timor-Leste offers travelers a rare opportunity for genuine, off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Located between Indonesia and Australia, Timor-Leste gained independence from Indonesia in 2002. The nation reached a significant diplomatic milestone on October 26, 2025, when it was officially inducted as the 11th full member of ASEAN.
With direct flights from Singapore, Darwin (Australia), Bali (Indonesia), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), and Xiamen and Fuzhou (China), Timor-Leste is more accessible than ever.
From Oct to Nov, witness the planet’s greatest marine spectacle as Pygmy Blue Whales and Sperm Whales navigate the deep-water "superhighway" of the Ombai-Wetar Strait. Beyond the coast, dive into the world’s most biodiverse reefs at Atauro Island.
This route takes you through the rugged, misty heart of Timor-Leste’s highlands before looping back to the historic and coastal western districts. It is a journey of dramatic temperature shifts—from the humid coast to the crisp, eucalyptus-scented air of the mountains.
Highlights
Timor-Leste is a fascinating tapestry of indigenous traditions and colonial Portuguese influence. Visitors can explore everything from untouched coastal stretches and the planet’s most biodiverse coral reefs to dramatic mountain ranges and ancestral villages.
🐋 Whale and Dolphin Watching: Timor-Leste's pristine coastal waters offer the chance to witness majestic marine life up close, including the awe-inspiring blue whale. Observing dolphins frolicking in their natural habitat adds to the enchantment.
☕ Stroll through lush coffee plantations to discover the diversity of varietals. Experience the "Kopi Timor" ritual—a tradition passed down through generations.
🤿 Snorkeling at Jaco Island: Jaco Island's untouched waters provide an unparalleled snorkeling experience amidst vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life. Exploring these pristine underwater ecosystems is a must for nature enthusiasts.
🕵️♂️ Exploring Caves with Ancient Paintings: Delve into the depths of Timor-Leste's ancient history by exploring caves adorned with intriguing ancient paintings. These archaeological treasures offer insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
🏛️ Rich History and Culture: Immerse yourself in Timor-Leste's rich tapestry of history and culture as you visit historical sites, interact with local communities, and savor traditional cuisine. From colonial influences to indigenous traditions, every aspect of Timor-Leste's heritage is fascinating to explore.
🏞️ Unspoiled Natural Beauty: Timor-Leste's unspoiled landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush mountains, showcase the country's breathtaking natural beauty. Whether hiking through dense forests or relaxing on secluded shores, every moment offers a glimpse into the untouched splendor of this hidden gem.
Embarking on this tour of Timor-Leste ensures an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, discovery, and moments of pure wonder amidst some of the world's most captivating landscapes and cultures.
Description
Embark on an exploration of Timor-Leste's pristine waters and abundant marine life. Timor-Leste's north coast, particularly the Ombai-Wetar Strait, is one of the world's few deep-water migratory "superhighways."
Experience the best of Timor-Leste's attractions as you journey from east to west. From the rugged beauty of the eastern coast to the lush landscapes of the west, immerse yourself in the diverse wonders of this captivating country.
Culinary Delights
Welcome to the ultimate culinary adventure in Timor-Leste. This curated culinary tour will take you on a journey through diverse cuisines, showcasing the best restaurants and culinary experiences Timor-Leste has to offer.
Travel Period: 7th Oct 2026 till 20th Nov 2026
Flight details
8G998 SUN & THU SIN/DIL 1200 1700
8G997 THU & SUN DIL/SIN 0815 1115
Tour Fare Inclusions
- Return Economy Class ticket by Aero Dili
- A qualified and licensed English-speaking guide in each vehicle
- An experienced driver and 4WD vehicle
- Full board, 06 Breakfast, 06 Lunches & 7 Dinners
- 07 Nights accommodation
- Entrance fees to sites as listed in itinerary
Tour fare Exclusions
- Travel Insurance
- USD 30 On-Arrival Visa fees
- Personal expenses
- Tips for Guide & Driver: (USD 2-3 per person per day)
Package Cost:
- SGD 3,390 per person (Twin-Sharing, min. 2 travelers)
- +SGD 390 Single Supplement
For booking or enquiries, please send us an email at hello@soultrips.co
ELECTRONIC ENTRY FORM
All incoming passengers must fill out the Timor-Leste e-Declaration Form before entering the country. This can be completed online up to 5 days before your departure via the official link below: https://tilesw.customs.gov.tl/#/eservice/traveller/declaration
When completed a QR code will be generated. Please print a copy of the code or have it ready on your electronic device for presentation to the Immigration & Customs officials on arrival.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Dili
Welcome to Dili! Upon arrival, please have your QR code ready for Electronic Entry and USD 30 available for your visa application. After clearing immigration, your guide will be waiting in the arrival hall to welcome you and assist with your transfer. Settle into your hotel and take some time to freshen up after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll be introduced to Timorese flavors and hospitality.
Stay: Hotel Timor Dili - the city’s most historical hotel, offering a touch of old-world elegance. Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected from the comfort of your own space.
Meal: Dinner
Day 2 : Dili - Atauro Island
6:30 am – Check out from your hotel and set off for an early‑morning whale‑watching adventure. Afterward, continue to Atauro Island and check in at Beloi Beach Resort. Spend the afternoon exploring Beloi Village, with an optional short hike if time allows. Unwind in the evening with a stunning sunset from the resort’s infinity pool or Ponky’s Bar. Dinner will be served at the resort.
The waters surrounding Timor-Leste are home to a variety of whale species, including blue whales, sperm whales, and humpback whales, making it one of the global hotspots for whale and dolphin watching.
Stay: Beloi Beach Resort, Atauro Island – a serene beachfront resort offering comfortable rooms, scenic views, and easy access to the island’s vibrant village life.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 : Explore Timor-Leste
Enjoy breakfast at Beloi Beach Resort at 08:00 am before heading out at 09:00 am for a vibrant snorkeling session in Atauro’s clear waters. Lunch is served at 11:30 am, followed by departure back to Dili. At 5:30 pm, join a hands-on local cooking class at Dilicious Timor, where dinner will also be served.
Atauro Island, located just north of Dili, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, making it a top destination for diving and snorkeling.
Stay: Hotel Esplanada – comfortable and well-located hotel in central Dili, offering modern rooms, friendly service, and easy access to the city’s dining, shopping, and waterfront areas—an ideal base for exploring Timor-Leste’s capital.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 : Dili – Aileu – Maubisse
At 8:30 am, check out from your hotel and begin your journey into the majestic highlands of Aileu and Maubisse, exploring waterfalls, coffee and vanilla plantations, and the idyllic village of Seloi Kraik. Enjoy lunch in Seloi Kraik, with the option to try bamboo‑pole fishing if you don’t mind the midday heat.
Continue with a visit to the historic Pousada Maubisse and, if in season, pick fresh strawberries before heading up to Fleixa Alto hill for sweeping highland views and a hike to the Dokomali Waterfall. Check in at Sara Guest House in Maubisse and take a leisurely stroll to the nearby stream. In the evening, return to Maubisse town for a simple dinner or enjoy a campfire dinner prepared by your local guide.
Guests can stroll through lush coffee plantations to discover the diversity of varietals and gain insight into how terroir—soil, altitude, and climate—shapes each bean’s unique flavor profile. If it’s harvest season, you may engage in a hands-on harvesting experience, picking ripe cherries and appreciating the skill and labor that goes into every cup.
The island’s traditional villages in the Maubisse region allow visitors to experience local customs, traditional weaving, and age-old agricultural practices. Dokomali Waterfall is one of Timor-Leste’s most striking natural gems — a dramatic, multi-tiered cascade tucked deep in the rugged mountains of Ainaro, accessible via a mostly clear 2 km trail from the car park.
Stay: Sara Guest House, Maubisse – a charming highland guesthouse offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to Maubisse’s natural and cultural attractions.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 : Rabilau – Lauhata
At 8:30 am, check out from the guest house and make your way to the breathtaking landscapes of Rabilau. Continue toward Aileu, arriving in time for a 12:30 pm lunch at Projeitu Montanha.
After lunch, depart for Lauhata Beach Resort, stopping en route to explore local mangrove conservation sites and ongoing turtle-protection efforts, with the chance to release baby turtles into the ocean if it’s the right season. Arrive in the evening, check in at the resort, and unwind before enjoying dinner at the resort.
Highlights:
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Rabilau: A cultural hotspot in Timor-Leste, renowned for the annual Festival Rabilau — a major celebration of Timorese heritage, arts, and tourism.
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Projeitu Montanha: A Brazilian-founded social enterprise and guesthouse in Aileu, combining community development with tourism. It offers accommodation, a restaurant, and cultural programs while supporting local youth through education and skill-building initiatives
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Stay: Lauhata Beach Resort – a peaceful beachfront resort offering comfortable rooms, serene ocean views, and easy access to the island’s natural and conservation sites.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 : Lauhata – Balibo
Depart Lauhata at 9:30 am for a scenic drive toward Balibo, with relaxed stops in Maubara and Atabae. Arrive at the historic Balibo Fort Hotel to enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Continue exploring Balibo village and visit the Balibo Fort Museum before heading to Leohitu Waterfall, where guests can try local-style fishing—your catch can even be prepared as an optional dinner highlight. Return to the hotel in the evening to unwind by the pool and enjoy sweeping sunset views, followed by dinner. Conclude the evening at 8:00 pm with an optional outdoor screening of Balibo 5 under the stars.
Highlights:
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Balibo Fort Museum: Officially known as the Balibo Veterans’ Museum, this site is a powerful tribute to Timor-Leste’s wartime history, housed within a 400-year-old Portuguese fort. Free to visit and open to the public, it’s a must-see for travelers exploring the Bobonaro district.
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Leohitu Waterfall: A seasonal, lush green cascade near Leohitu Village in the Balibó–Maliana region. Known for its quiet, untouched setting, it is easily accessible from Balibó Trails’ hiking routes.
Stay: Balibo Fort Hotel – set within the 400-year-old Balibó Fort, the hotel offers just eight well-appointed rooms, sweeping views over the Timor-Leste and Indonesian border, an infinity-style outdoor pool, a small museum, and a peaceful hilltop atmosphere praised for its beauty, history, and sunsets
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 : Balibo – Dili
The day begins at 9:00 am with an invigorating hike in Balibo, ideal for guests with a good level of fitness. The trail leads to a striking peak crowned with dramatic black pinnacle rock formations, offering a rewarding sense of achievement and sweeping views for those who make the ascent.
At noon, enjoy an early lunch before departing for Dili, arriving around 3:00 pm to check in at the inspiring Sunset Inn, a remarkable social enterprise with a meaningful community mission. After settling in, guests are invited on a guided tour of the property to learn about its impact and story.
Next, visit Cristo Rei, one of Dili’s most iconic landmarks. The gentle climb up to Cristo Rei is rewarded with a breathtaking panorama as the sun begins its descent, casting warm golden light across the bay and illuminating the statue’s silhouette.
The day concludes at 7:00 pm with a delightful dinner at Mana Restaurant, located within Sunset Inn, where guests unwind over a warm, flavorful meal in a relaxed setting.
Highlights:
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Cristo Rei: Iconic statue overlooking Dili Bay, offering panoramic views and a rewarding climb.
Stay: Sunset Inn Dili – a socially conscious property offering comfortable rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a unique opportunity to engage with community-driven initiatives.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Departure
Pick-up at 6:00 am for your 8:15 am flight from Dili to Singapore, marking the end of a memorable journey through Timor-Leste’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and rewarding adventures.
As you head home, reflect on experiences across pristine waters, vibrant villages, majestic highlands, and historic landmarks, carrying with you memories that will last a lifetime.
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