Lautem
The most eastern municipality of Timor-Leste, Lautem includes the sprawling main center of Lospalos and has a wealth of natural and cultural locations of interest to travelers. Lospalos is home to the Fataluku people. They also are known for producing high-quality tais, wood carvings, and woven basket ware.
Set on an undulated plain surrounded by forested hills the countryside around Lospalos is used for rice cultivation and other crops. Raising livestock, especially extensive herds of cattle and water buffalo is the main activity. Further, towards the mountains and the south coast, the municipality becomes wilder and more scarcely populated.
From Tutuala’s high cliff setting, views are mind-blowing over the forested ranges, out to the Indonesian island of Kisar, and to the blue sea shimmering far below. From the local pousada’s ramparts, rich birdlife can be observed along with monkeys swinging through the forest. The limestone caves and buttresses within the national park have some of Timor-Leste’s most important archeological treasures – ancient fossils and cave drawings. To access the caves, guides can be arranged.
- Location: Lautem District, Timor-Leste
- Best Time To Visit: May to October
- Things To Do: swimming, going to the local market, going fishing,
- Best Places To Stay: Esperanca guest house,
