Timor-Leste, one of the world’s youngest countries, is located almost 1,000km below the Equator. Also known as East Timor, it is a land of contrast, located in the heart of South-East-Asia and geographically positioned between the two neighboring countries of Indonesia and Australia.
Before colonization, Timor-Leste was known as Timor Loro Sa’e (tetun) meaning East of the Land of the Rising Sun. For nearly 450 years (1911-1974), the Portuguese ruled the eastern half of Timor Island known as Portuguese Timor while the western half, colonized by the Dutch was called Dutch Timor.
For 24 years (1975-1999) as the Timorese people fought for independence, the nation was occupied by Indonesia and at the time was called Timor-Timur in Bahasa Indonesia.
However, in 1999 the United Nations conducted a mission leading towards independence with popular consultation and elections. Then following the UNTAET; (United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor) the country gained independence in 2002 and officially became known as Timor-Leste.
With a population of around 1.5 million, Timorese are linked closely. The country’s identity is composed of many indigenous groups, each with its own language and cultural practices.
The infrastructure in the country itself is improving and advances in development can be seen. Timor-Leste is rapidly becoming a must-visit destination for adventure seekers who wish to get off the beaten track. With the some of the most spectacular (and untouched) coral reefs and pristine beaches in the world, as well as stunning wildlife, remarkable scenery, and a warm, incredibly friendly welcoming population, there’s a rich culture heritage to explore. Whether you are looking for adventure or simply want to relax, Timor-Leste is the perfect destination for you, and when you arrive here in Timor, it seems you have entered paradise.
Timor Indigenous Tours is a business with a social purpose; by touring with us you are contributing to preserving and perpetuating the human, cultural, and natural resources of Timor-Leste for generations through tourism education and conservation. Providing our staff with much needed income and contributing to the sustainable, economic development of our country through tourism.