Volunteer in Timor-Leste

35+ Years Experience

IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.  We accept volunteers from all over the world and place them in meaningful overseas missions.  

Affordable Volunteer Travel

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a small Southeast Asian nation located on the eastern half of the island of Timor. It gained independence from Indonesia in 2002, becoming one of the world’s youngest nations. Timor-Leste is known for its rugged mountainous terrain, stunning beaches, and diverse cultural heritage influenced by Portuguese colonization and indigenous traditions. Tetum and Portuguese are the official languages, reflecting the country’s colonial history, while Indonesian and English are also widely spoken.

Despite rich natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, Timor-Leste faces significant development challenges such as high poverty rates, limited access to education and healthcare, and infrastructural constraints. The country is striving to overcome its past conflicts and build a stable, democratic society with the support of the international community. Timor-Leste’s people are known for their resilience, strong sense of community, and commitment to nation-building, making it a compelling destination for those interested in volunteering and cultural exchange.

Timor-Leste has a tropical climate characterised by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically lasts from November to April, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional cyclones, especially in coastal areas. During this time, temperatures are generally high, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The dry season, from May to October, experiences less rainfall and cooler temperatures, with averages ranging between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

Timor-Leste’s climate varies across regions due to its mountainous terrain, with the northern coast generally experiencing hotter and more humid conditions compared to the cooler mountainous regions in the south. The country’s climate supports diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, savannas, and coastal mangroves, contributing to its rich biodiversity.

Timor-Leste boasts a vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry shaped by centuries of history, traditions, and influences from various ethnic groups. The country’s culture is a blend of indigenous customs, Portuguese colonial heritage, and neighboring Southeast Asian influences. Traditional Timorese culture is deeply rooted in communal values, with strong emphasis placed on family, community, and spirituality. Ceremonial rituals, such as traditional dance and music performances, are integral to Timorese culture and often accompany important social events and religious ceremonies.

Aubeon is located in a very remote area, and most major charities are situated in the capital city of Dili, which means that these regions do not receive the same benefits as urban areas. Despite the community’s enthusiasm to learn, they do not have access to regular volunteers who can provide basic training in skills such as building and maintenance, carpentry, painting, English, nursing, healthy cooking, or farming.

Accommodation is located in a basic but comfortable house.

Traditional dishes often feature a fusion of Portuguese, Indonesian, and indigenous flavors. Among the popular dishes are Ikan Pepes, grilled fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves, and Batar daan, a hearty porridge made from corn, coconut, and pumpkin. Feijoada, a Portuguese-inspired stew with beans and pork, is also common, served alongside rice. Caril de Galinha, a fragrant chicken curry with coconut milk, is another favorite. For dessert, locals enjoy Tukir, sweet sticky rice cakes, and Bebinca, a layered coconut milk pancake. Timorese coffee, known for its rich flavor, completes the culinary experience, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity and heritage through its food.

All our volunteers are required to cover their travel costs, which include airfares from Australia to Dili (the capital of Timor Leste) and from Dili to Aubeon via 4wheel. From Dili, we hire a 4WD vehicle, which costs between USD 85-120 per day, approximately USD300 for two weeks per person.

Here are some things to do in Timor-Leste:

Explore Dili: Start your journey by exploring the capital city of Dili, where you can visit historical sites such as the Resistance Museum, which documents Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence.

Beach Activities: Enjoy the stunning beaches along the coast, such as Christo Rei Beach and Areia Branca Beach, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the pristine sands.

Hiking and Trekking: Timor-Leste’s rugged terrain offers excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. Explore the lush mountains and forests, including trekking to the summit of Mount Ramelau, the highest peak in Timor-Leste.

Diving and Snorkelling: Discover the underwater wonders of Timor-Leste by diving or snorkelling in sites like Atauro Island or Jaco Island, renowned for their pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Timor-Leste’s rich cultural heritage by visiting traditional villages, attending local festivals, and experiencing traditional music and dance performances.

Visit Baucau: Explore the charming town of Baucau, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and nearby natural attractions such as Lake Iralalaro and the Lautem District beaches.

Wildlife Watching: Discover Timor-Leste’s unique flora and fauna by visiting national parks and reserves like Nino Konis Santana National Park, home to diverse ecosystems and endangered species.