Is it safe to travel to Timor-Leste? The short answer is that yes generally speaking Timor-Leste is a safe place to travel to, although some precautions should be taken.

To read about the difference between West and East Timor click here.

Genocide in East Timor

East Timor, or Timor-Leste has been through the wars quite literally. During the period of Indonesian occupation some have suggested as many as 44 percent of the pre-war population died and it has been referred to as a genocide. 

This was confounded by atrocities committed by pro-Indonesian militia, as well as a brief but bloody civil war in the country. 

Since 2022 there has been relative peace within the country, although like many former conflict zones there is still a relative desensitisation to violence.

Violence in Timor-Leste

What violence that does occur in the country tends to done by gangs in the big cities, or is politically motived. Generally speaking this does not massively affect foreigners, but some caution should be shown if you do visit during one section.

To read about the Timorese President visiting Cambodia click here. 

Crime in Timor-Leste 

Violent crime at least that directed against foreigners tends to be rare in Timor-Leste, with most crime being opportunistic. This includes theft of belongings by thieves on motorbikes.

Restraint should be showed when traveling at night, with taking a taxi being preferable to walking along the often dimply lit streets.

Is it safe to travel to Timor-Leste for LGTB+ people

While same sex marriage is not legal in the country same sex relations are legal and discrimination based on sexual orientation is against the law.The country even hosts a Pride event since 2017. 

With that being said though it should be remembered that it is still conservative Catholic country so overt shows of affection in general are frowned upon.  This is no stigma to sharing a room with a same sex partners in Timor-Leste. 

So, is it safe to travel to Timor-Leste? Overall yes, but with a few caveats.