This baseline analysis of tourism supply and demand with a consumer perspective is a foundational research document for Timor-Leste’s tourism sector, written primarily in Tetum. It examines the current state of tourism offerings across the country — including accommodation, transportation, attractions, tour services, and food and beverage — and compares these against the expectations and preferences of actual and potential visitors.
On the supply side, the analysis maps existing tourism assets across municipalities, identifying concentrations of infrastructure in Dili and notable gaps in secondary destinations that have high tourism potential, such as Atauro Island, Baucau, Maubisse, and the southern coast. The demand analysis draws on traveler surveys and market research to profile source markets, estimate willingness to pay, and identify the types of experiences most sought after, including diving, trekking, cultural immersion, and historical tourism.
This document is a critical reference for anyone involved in tourism planning, investment, or development assistance in Timor-Leste. By identifying specific mismatches between what the market demands and what the country currently offers, it provides a clear framework for prioritizing interventions.