Health & Safety in East Timor

Essential safety information and health precautions for travelers to Timor-Leste

Emergency Health Services

⚠️ CRITICAL EMERGENCY CONTACTS

• Dili National Hospital: +670 331 0541
• Stamford Clinic: +670 311 0141 / 331 1209
• Bairo Pite Clinic: +670 7723 8343

Medical Evacuation: For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Darwin, Australia may be necessary. Comprehensive health insurance covering medical evacuation is essential.

Health Precautions

Essential Vaccinations

Consult your doctor or travel clinic about recommended vaccinations:

• Tetanus
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid fever
• Japanese encephalitis
• Bring a comprehensive medical kit

Disease Risks & Prevention

High Risk Diseases:

• Dengue fever: Mosquito-borne, year-round risk
• Limited malaria risk: Mainly in remote areas
• Chikungunya: Mosquito-transmitted
• Filariasis: Parasitic infection
• Japanese encephalitis: Rare but serious

Mosquito Protection (Essential):

• Apply DEET-based insect repellent regularly
• Cover up day and night (long sleeves/pants)
• Avoid standing water areas, especially at sunset
• Use bed nets in rural areas

Water and Food Safety

Critical Water Safety:

• Tap water is NOT safe to drink
• Drink only bottled water or properly boiled/treated water
• Use bottled water for brushing teeth
• Be extremely cautious with ice

Food Safety Precautions:

• Take normal travel food safety precautions
• Avoid raw salads and unwashed fruits
• Eat at established restaurants when possible
• Be cautious with street food

Safety Tips

Crime Prevention

• Be mindful of petty crime, especially:
  • Bag snatching
  • Cell phone theft
• Avoid:
  • Walking alone at night
  • Isolated areas

Transportation Safety

Driving Safety (Critical):

• Recommended to hire a driver if inexperienced with local conditions
• Roads are in poor condition outside major routes
• "Usually, the fault is always yours, even when it's not"

Essential Driving/Riding Safety:

• Wear seat belts at all times
• Wear helmets on motorcycles and bicycles (mandatory)
• Keep speed low, especially in villages
• Valid driving license required to hire vehicles
• Be extremely cautious of traffic accidents
• 4WD recommended for remote areas and wet season travel

⚠️ CROCODILE DANGER - FATAL ATTACKS POSSIBLE

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING:

• Estuarine crocodiles are present around the coast
• Fatal attacks CAN and DO occur
• Found in both freshwater rivers and saltwater coastal areas
• For Timorese people, crocodiles are sacred animals

ESSENTIAL PRECAUTION:

• "Prior to going near the water, it is a sensible precaution to check with the locals whether the area is safe for swimming"
• NEVER assume any water area is safe
• Always ask local people before swimming or water activities
• Stay alert and maintain maximum safe distance from water's edge

Climate & Environmental Health

Hot Tropical Climate Precautions:

• Temperature range: 25-35°C (hot and humid)
• Intense sunshine requires protection
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
• Replace salt lost through perspiration
• Limit midday activities during hottest hours
• Cover up to prevent severe sunburn
• Wear light, breathable clothing

Ocean Safety:

• Strong currents at diving and swimming sites
• Conditions can change quickly
• Exercise extreme caution in water
• No lifeguards at most beaches
• Always swim with a companion

General Safety Precautions

Personal Security:

• Check travel advisories before visiting
• Avoid crowded gatherings and political demonstrations
• Don't flash money or valuables
• Secure valuables at accommodation
• Travel with a companion or guide when possible
• Avoid isolated areas, especially alone
• Don't travel at night outside Dili
• Limited street lighting even in Dili
• No taxis available after dark (unless prearranged)

Health Services Limitations:

• Very limited health services, especially in districts
• Serious medical emergencies require evacuation
• Carry comprehensive medical kit
• Inform someone of your travel plans

Practical Recommendations

• Consult a doctor before traveling
• Carry necessary medications
• Be diplomatic in challenging situations