Travel Vaccines and Advice for East Timor
East Timor is a sovereign state located in Maritime Southeast Asia and is made up of half of the island of Timor. The country has abundant natural beauty and offers some amazing adventures.
Travellers can hike jungle caves, relax by the seaside or walk along the cliffs to the north. In the cities, you can explore the colorful market or taste delicious local coffee. This Asian country will offer travellers a beautiful and historical trip.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for East Timor?
Do I Need a Visa for East Timor?
What is the Climate Like in East Timor?
How Safe is East Timor?
Visiting the Cristo Rei of Dili Statue
What Should I Take to East Timor?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in East Timor
Do I Need Vaccines for East Timor?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for East Timor. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for East Timor: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Found throughout country, transmission is year-round. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for East Timor |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Found throughout country, transmission is year-round. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne disease found in some parts of East Timor. The vaccine is recommended for travellers of various types.
Malaria, dengue and chikungunya are also present. All three can be prevented through proper use of repellents and mosquito netting. Malaria prevention may also require an antimalarial prescription.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Visa for East Timor?
Timor-Leste requires visas for all travellers, but they are generally available on arrival. Visa duration is usually for 30 days. Passports must have at least six months validity upon entering the country. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.
East Timor Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to East Timor? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of East Timor and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in East Timor?
East Timor is part of southeast Asia. The climate is particularly hot and humid with distinct rainy and dry seasons. The eastern part of the country has the last remaining tropical dry forested area in the country.
- Dili – Dili is the capital of East Timor, located on the northern coast of the island. The temperature is nearly always high. The warmest month is October with highs in the low 30’s Celsius. The coolest month is January with temperatures in the high 20’s. The rainy season is from December to March with the wettest month being January. The driest month is September.
- Suai – Suai is located in the southwest part of the country. The average temperature is in the low- 20’s. The driest month is September and the wettest is January.
How Safe is East Timor?
East Timor experienced several violent episodes from 2002 to 2008. But, there have not been any major civil disturbances since.
Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing, bag-snatching, theft, or break ins does occur. Travellers should avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them. Travellers should avoid demonstrations or large gatherings, these good opportunities for pick-pocketing. Do not resist theft, as those who do many face violence by perpetrators. Do not open the door for strangers and confirm with reception if someone knocking at the door is with the hotel.
Stone throwing attacks on vehicles has occurred during gang conflicts or civil unrest. Travel only in well-lit areas and avoid travelling alone if possible. Additionally, avoid taking taxis alone. All travellers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings whilst travelling.
Visiting the Cristo Rei of Dili Statue
One of main tourist attractions of East Timor, the Cristo Rei of Dili Statue is a 25 metre tall statue of Jesus. It was designed by Mochamad Syailillah, better known as Bolil an unveiled in 1996. It was originally a gift from the Indonesian government to the people of East Timor. It took nearly a year and 30 workers to build the body of the statue. It is located at the end of the Fatucama peninsula facing the ocean. Visitors must climb about 500 steps before reaching it.
What Should I Take to East Timor?
East Timor is a fairly popular destination. But, it’s important to ensure you have everything you may need for your trip. Here are some great, must-pack items:
- Light Clothing – It can get very hot and humid in East Timor. You will be most comfortable in light, flowy clothing.
- Jumper – Nights or restaurants can get a bit chilly. Bring something to keep warm.
- Knee-Length Skirt or Pants – Many areas of East Timor dress more conservatively. Ensure to bring appropriate clothing.
- Walking Shoes – You’ll definitely want to take a hike in the beautiful wilderness, so bring comfortable shoes.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in East Timor
If you are in East Timor and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
While there is no consulate or embassy in East Timor, it is served by the British embassy in Indonesia:
British Embassy Jakarta
Jl. Patra Kuningan Raya Blok L5-6
Jakarta
12950
Indonesia
Telephone: (+62) (21) 2356 5200
Emergency Phone: (+62) (21) 2356 5200
Fax: (+62) (21) 2356 5351
Contact Form: Click Here
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