Oecussi Travel Guide

Discover the best cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, food and drinks, where to stay, local customs, and safety tips in the enchanting region of Oecussi in East Timor, Southeast Asia.


Introduction to Oecussi

Oecussi is an enchanting region located in East Timor, Southeast Asia. It is an exclave and an enclave, surrounded by Indonesian West Timor on three sides and the Timor Sea on the fourth side. Oecussi covers an area of approximately 814 square kilometers and has a population of about 70,000. Its climate is tropical and humid, with occasional rainfall throughout the year.

Oecussi is a unique travel destination that remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, but it is worth exploring. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, friendly people, and authentic food and drinks. This comprehensive travel guide will help visitors discover the best of Oecussi, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local customs, and safety tips.

List of Places to Visit in Oecussi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oecussi Museum – This museum showcases the cultural and historical treasures of Oecussi. It has a vast collection of artifacts such as traditional costumes, handicrafts, weaponry, and archaeological finds.
  • Pante Makasar Memorial Park – This monument commemorates the Battle of Pante Makasar, which was East Timor’s first win against the Indonesian military forces in 1975. The park has a beautiful garden, a sacred altar, and a small museum with photographs and documents about the battle.
  • Fortaleza de Zumalai - This historical fortress was built in 1602 by the Portuguese to protect their colonial interests in the Timor Sea. It was later used by the Japanese during World War II and Indonesian forces during the occupation. Today, it is a popular attraction for visitors who want to learn about East Timor’s colonial past.

Natural Attractions of Oecussi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kono Beach – This golden sand beach is a perfect place to relax and soak in the sun while enjoying the stunning views of Timor Sea. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or rent a kayak to explore the nearby islands.
  • Mount Ramelau – This majestic mountain is the highest peak in East Timor, standing at 2,963 meters above sea level. It is a popular destination for hikers and trekkers who want to experience the stunning natural beauty of Oecussi. At the summit, visitors will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the sunrise over the Timor Sea.
  • Buibau Waterfall – This beautiful waterfall is located in the Buibau River, about 30 kilometers from Pante Macassar. It is a hidden gem that offers a great opportunity to relax and unwind amidst the lush green forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oecussi

Hiking and biking are popular outdoor activities in Oecussi. Here are some of the best routes for visitors who want to explore the region’s natural beauty:

  • Mount Ramelau Trail – This trail is the most popular hiking route to the summit of Mount Ramelau. It takes about 6-8 hours to climb to the top and back, and visitors should be prepared for a challenging trek through forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain.
  • Bobonaro to Zumalai Trail – This scenic trail starts from the town of Bobonaro and ends in Zumalai, passing through lush green forests and traditional villages along the way. Visitors can rent bikes and cycle the 65 kilometers route, or walk if they prefer.
  • Oecussi to Pante Makasar Trail – This trail follows the coastline from Oecussi to Pante Makasar, offering stunning views of the Timor Sea and coral reefs. It takes about 2-3 hours to complete, and visitors can swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.

Best Things to Do in Oecussi: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do and see in Oecussi, regardless of visitors’ interests. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours:

  • Cultural Tours – Visitors can explore the cultural heritage of Oecussi by taking a guided tour of the region’s museums, traditional markets, and handicraft centers. They can learn about the local customs, beliefs, and festivals that celebrate the unique heritage of the region.
  • Food and Drink Tours – Visitors can sample the authentic flavors of Oecussi by taking a food and drink tour that explores the local culinary scene. They can taste the local dishes, such as Batar daan (corned beef with rice), Ikan Saboko (sardine fish), and Timor coffee, and learn about their preparation methods and history.
  • Scuba Diving and Snorkeling – The Timor Sea is a paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, with its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Visitors can explore the underwater world by taking a guided tour with trained professionals who will ensure their safety and enjoyment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oecussi

Visitors who want to experience the best of Oecussi can follow this week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1 – Arrival and check-in at the hotel. Relax and unwind.
  • Day 2 – Visit the Oecussi Museum and Pante Makasar Memorial Park.
  • Day 3 – Hike to the summit of Mount Ramelau and watch the sunrise.
  • Day 4 – Bike tour from Bobonaro to Zumalai.
  • Day 5 – Scuba diving and snorkeling in Timor Sea.
  • Day 6 – Visit Fortaleza de Zumalai and Buibau Waterfall.
  • Day 7 – Food and drink tour, departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Oecussi

Must-Try Dishes

  • Batar daan – Corned beef with rice, a popular traditional dish in Oecussi.
  • Ikan Saboko – Sardine fish, a staple dish in Oecussi, usually served with rice and vegetables.
  • Kuda Padi – A colorful drink made from agave and fermented rice, served cold in a bamboo stick.

Local Beverages

  • Timor coffee – Strong and aromatic coffee grown in the highlands of East Timor.
  • Bintang beer – Local beer, perfect for hot and humid weather.
  • Tuak – A traditional drink made from palm wine, usually served during festivals and celebrations.

Where to Stay in Oecussi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Oecussi that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Hotel Timor – A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Oecussi, offering comfortable rooms, excellent facilities, and great hospitality.
  • Los Palos Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel in Pante Macassar, offering clean rooms, shared kitchen, and great views of Timor Sea.
  • Guesthouse Oecussi – A homely guesthouse in Oecussi, offering cozy rooms, home-cooked meals, and a warm atmosphere.

What to Buy in Oecussi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home some of the unique cultural and local products of Oecussi, such as:

  • Tais – Traditional woven cloth, usually worn as a sarong, skirt, or headband.
  • Pottery – Handmade pottery products, such as vases, bowls, and figurines.
  • Tambo – Traditional musical instrument, made from bamboo or palm leaves.

Local Culture and Customs of Oecussi

The local people of Oecussi are friendly and hospitable, and visitors should respect their customs and beliefs. Here are some of the local customs and practices:

  • Greeting – Visitors should greet the locals with a smile and a handshake, and use the local language or Portuguese if they can.
  • Clothing – Modest clothing is preferred, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
  • Religion – Most of the locals are Catholics, and visitors should respect their religious practices and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Oecussi

The best time to visit Oecussi is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall. However, visitors can still enjoy Oecussi’s beauty and charm throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oecussi

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Learn some basic Portuguese or Tetum language.
  • Take plenty of water and sunscreen when going outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing or inappropriate attire.
  • Take photographs of people or religious sites without permission.
  • Engage in political discussions or debates.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oecussi

Oecussi is a safe and secure region to visit, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take some precautions, such as:

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash or expensive valuables.
  • Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.
  • Be wary of pickpockets or scams.

Health in Oecussi

Visitors should take some health precautions before and during their visit to Oecussi, such as:

  • Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, rabies, and typhoid.
  • Avoid drinking tap water and eating raw or undercooked food.
  • Bring mosquito repellent and protective clothing to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Oecussi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Oecussi by air or land, depending on their location and preferences.

Airports Near Oecussi

The nearest airport to Oecussi is Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili, the capital city of East Timor. Visitors can take a domestic flight from Dili to Oecussi’s airport, which is located in Pante Macassar.

Bus Stations Near Oecussi

Visitors can also take a bus from Dili or Kupang, Indonesia to Oecussi, but it is a long and challenging journey that takes about 24 hours.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a taxi, rent a car or a motorbike, or take private transport to reach Oecussi from Dili or Kupang.

How to Get Around in Oecussi

Visitors can get around Oecussi by hiring a car, a motorbike, or a bicycle, or by taking a taxi or a bus. Walking is also a viable option for short distances, but visitors should be prepared for the heat and humidity.

Where to Go Next from Oecussi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other destinations in East Timor and Indonesia from Oecussi, such as:

  • Dili – The capital city of East Timor, located about 160 kilometers from Oecussi. It is renowned for its museums, markets, beaches, and nightlife.
  • Kupang – The capital city of Indonesian West Timor, located about 70 kilometers from Oecussi. It is a cultural hub that showcases the unique heritage of the region.
  • Atauro Island – A pristine island located off the coast of Dili, offering stunning beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.

Conclusion

Oecussi is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia that offers a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty. Visitors can discover its rich heritage, immerse in its local customs, indulge in its authentic food and drinks, and explore its stunning natural areas. This comprehensive travel guide has provided visitors with all the necessary information to plan their trip to Oecussi, from places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local customs, and safety tips. Oecussi is waiting to be explored and experienced by adventurous travelers who want to discover something new and unique.