Hatu Builico is the highest village in Timor-Leste, nearly 2,000m above sea level, and the usual starting point for hiking up Mt Ramelau / Tatamailau, the highest point in the country. There is much more to the village than just heading to the summit though, as I discovered on a very enjoyable 7km wander around.

Opposite Pousada Alecrim Namrau, where I was staying, is a shrine to the Virgin Mary on the hillside.

It was a damp if atmospheric start to the day, but thankfully it soon cleared up to become a lovely day.

I visited on a Wednesday, which is when local markets (along with Saturday) are held. They’re pretty basic, with things literally being sold by the side of the road, without even a market building.

Opposite the markets is a former Portuguese colonial era administration building, built in one of the best locations in the village.

The views from here were magnificent.

Heading further up the valley I found an impressively situated cemetery, which offered more great views.

There are a large number of traditional Timorese buildings around Hatu Builico.

Including this Uma Lulik, a traditional sacred house, which was being repaired as the structures don’t last that long in the Timorese climate.

On the hill above the market was a sizeable tomb to a local priest.

This was another place for great views, both of the village below, and of Mt Ramelau / Tatamailau behind.

At the other end of the village is presumably the old church.

Which is dwarfed by the sizeable new blue church, inaugurated in October 2022.

To finish with a few more photos from exploring this beautiful place.

For the detailed route and logistical information please select this hike below (click top left for the list of hikes).