Dili to Balibo
Timor-Leste
Not for the faint-hearted, this trail bike or 4WD-only road winds through small, pretty villages and very green countryside to Maliana (capital of Bobonaro), then a short hike to the old Portuguese fort at Balibo. Falintil used this road extensively in the Indonesian invasion of 1975; the five journalists known as the Balibo Five were killed here. The Australian Defence Forces considered it too dangerous to use.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Dili
The world's newest capital. Colonial arcades, Cristo Rei on the headland, and the Resistance Museum tell 24 years of struggle.
- Liquica
A coastal town 30 km west of Dili where the road turns inland. A church massacre memorial marks the 1999 independence violence.
- Ermera
Timor-Leste's coffee capital at 1,400m. Arabica grown here since the Portuguese era, through shade plantations and cool mountain air.
- Maliana
The Bobonaro district capital and last reliable fuel stop. A border-town market where Timorese and Indonesian traders meet.
- Balibo Fort
Where five journalists were killed in 1975 as Indonesia invaded. The fort bears their nations' flags; the border is visible from the walls.
Where to Eat
- Restaurante MaubaraSeafood
Enjoy fresh seafood dishes with a view of the historic Maubara Fort and the Savu Sea.
- Café ErmeraLocal Diner
Savor traditional Timorese coffee and local snacks in the heart of Ermera's coffee region.
- Liquiçá Market Food StallsStreet Food
Sample a variety of local street foods and fresh produce at the bustling Liquiçá Municipal Market.
Things to Do
- Maubara FortHistoric Site
Explore a 17th-century Dutch fort offering insights into Timor-Leste's colonial history and coastal defense.
- Bandeira WaterfallNature
Witness the highest waterfall in Timor-Leste, cascading amidst lush greenery in Ermera.
- Liquiçá Church and MemorialLandmark
Visit the restored Igreja de São João de Brito and learn about its historical significance in the 1999 events.
Travel advisory
A capable low-range 4WD is essential as tracks are deeply rutted, river crossings are unbridged, and road markings are absent. Conditions deteriorate severely during the wet season from November to April when sections become impassable. Carry recovery gear, spare fuel, and inform someone of your itinerary before departing.