East Timor in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in East Timor

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season continues with minimal rainfall - only 51mm (2.0 inches) across 10 days, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and coastal activities
Excellent underwater visibility reaches 25-30m (82-98 ft) around Atauro Island and Jaco Island, perfect for diving and snorkeling with calm seas
Coffee harvest season in Ermera and Aileu regions offers unique agritourism experiences with freshly processed beans and cooler mountain temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F)
Carnival season brings busy street celebrations in Dili, particularly the week before Lent, showcasing traditional Timorese music, dance, and Portuguese colonial influences

Considerations

High tourism demand from Australian dry season visitors drives accommodation prices up 30-40% compared to wet season months, particularly in Dili and Cristo Rei
Afternoon humidity peaks at 85% between 1-4pm, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable and requiring strategic timing of sightseeing
Strong trade winds averaging 25-30 km/h (15-19 mph) can make boat transfers to outer islands choppy and uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness

Best Activities in February

Atauro Island Diving and Marine Life Tours

February offers the clearest underwater visibility of the year with 25-30m (82-98 ft) range and water temperatures of 28-29°C (82-84°F). The calm seas and minimal rainfall create perfect conditions for encountering whale sharks, manta rays, and pristine coral gardens. Early morning departures at 7am avoid afternoon wind pickup.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed dive operators in Dili. Prices typically range $80-120 USD for day trips including equipment and transfers. Look for operators with PADI certification and proper insurance. Morning trips offer calmer conditions.

Ermera Coffee Plantation Tours

February marks peak harvest season when coffee cherries are hand-picked and processed. Mountain temperatures are 8-10°C (14-18°F) cooler than coastal areas, providing relief from humidity. Experience traditional sun-drying methods, sample freshly roasted beans, and learn about Timor's organic farming practices from local cooperatives.

Booking Tip: Arrange through community-based tourism groups 5-7 days in advance. Tours cost $40-60 USD including transportation from Dili (2.5 hours each way), lunch with farming families, and coffee tasting. Best visited on clear mornings before 11am.

Jaco Island Beach and Snorkeling Excursions

This uninhabited island at Timor's eastern tip offers pristine white sand beaches and excellent snorkeling in February's calm conditions. The 45-minute boat ride from Tutuala is smoothest in morning hours. Water clarity is exceptional with minimal runoff from the dry season.

Booking Tip: Book through Tutuala village operators 3-5 days ahead. Day trips cost $60-80 USD including boat transfer, snorkeling equipment, and basic lunch. Departure times are tide-dependent, usually 8-9am. Bring reef-safe sunscreen as there's no shade on the island.

Mount Ramelau Sunrise Hiking

At 2,986m (9,797 ft), Timor's highest peak offers spectacular sunrise views across the island. February's dry conditions make the 3-4 hour pre-dawn hike safer with clear trails. Temperatures drop to 8-12°C (46-54°F) at the summit, providing dramatic relief from coastal heat.

Booking Tip: Start at 2am to reach summit by sunrise around 6:15am. Book guides through Hato-Builico village for $30-45 USD including transportation from village. Bring warm layers and headlamps. The last 500m (1,640 ft) requires scrambling over rocks.

Dili Cultural Walking Tours

February's morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) are perfect for exploring Dili's mix of Portuguese colonial architecture, traditional markets, and contemporary Timorese culture. Visit Tais Market for traditional weavings, explore the Resistance Museum, and sample local street food before afternoon humidity peaks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided or join cultural walking groups that meet at Hotel Timor Plaza. Tours run $15-25 USD for 3-4 hours including market visits and historical sites. Best completed between 7-11am before heat becomes uncomfortable. Bring UV protection and water.

Maubisse Highland Village Experiences

This mountain town at 1,400m (4,593 ft) elevation offers cooler temperatures, traditional architecture, and spectacular valley views. February's clear skies provide excellent visibility across the central highlands. Experience traditional weaving, sample mountain-grown vegetables, and stay in Portuguese-era pousadas.

Booking Tip: Book mountain lodge accommodation 10-14 days ahead as options are limited. Village homestays cost $25-35 USD per night including meals. The 90-minute drive from Dili winds through scenic highlands. Morning arrival recommended for clearest mountain views.

February Events & Festivals

Late February (week before Lent)

Carnival Celebrations in Dili

Week-long festivities leading up to Lent featuring traditional Timorese music, Portuguese-influenced parades, and colorful street performances. Local communities compete in costume competitions while food stalls serve traditional dishes like ikan saboko and batar da'an.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts in breathable cotton or linen - protects from UV index 8 sun while allowing airflow in 70% humidity

Waterproof day pack cover - afternoon showers are brief but intense, and you'll want electronics protected

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV rays are intense at this latitude and regular sunscreen damages coral reefs

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation zips - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be heavy

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - wet surfaces in markets and coastal areas become slippery

Quick-dry hiking pants for mountain excursions - temperatures drop 8-10°C (14-18°F) in highlands above 1,000m (3,281 ft)

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - mosquitos are active during humid afternoons and evenings

Compact umbrella - useful for both rain protection and shade during midday sun

Electrolyte tablets or powder - easy to become dehydrated in the heat and humidity combination

Cash in USD small denominations - ATMs are limited outside Dili, and many services only accept cash payments

Insider Knowledge

Locals schedule outdoor activities between 6-10am and after 4pm to avoid peak heat and humidity. Follow their lead for comfortable sightseeing and save indoor activities (museums, markets) for 11am-3pm.

February is peak season for Timorese who return from working abroad, creating a festive atmosphere but also higher demand for accommodations and transport. Book domestic flights to Oecusse at least 2 weeks ahead.

The Indonesian Rupiah is widely accepted alongside USD, often at better rates than official money changers. Bring clean, newer USD bills as torn or marked currency is often rejected.

Traditional tais weaving is most active in February's dry weather when outdoor looms can be used. Visit villages around Manatuto or Viqueque to see master weavers at work and purchase authentic pieces directly from artisans.

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating afternoon humidity levels - many tourists schedule too much outdoor activity during 1-4pm when humidity reaches 85% and temperatures feel like 35°C (95°F). Plan indoor activities during this window.

Not bringing enough cash - many tourists rely on cards but most restaurants, guesthouses, and tour operators outside Dili only accept cash. ATMs frequently run out of money, especially on weekends.

Booking accommodation only in Dili - staying exclusively in the capital limits your experience. February's good weather makes it ideal for exploring highlands around Maubisse or coastal areas near Jaco Island with overnight stays in local guesthouses.