The landscape of Mundo Perdido (“Lost World” in Portuguese) is a varied and atmospheric place to explore on foot. The Portuguese called it the Lost World as the area is so often hidden in mist. The area was an important hideout for Timorese independence fighters during the Indonesian occupation. Now it is designated an ‘Important Bird Area’, home to 63 different species, and is one of the three most important areas for orchids in Timor-Leste. There are no clear trails and it is easy to get lost, so a local guide is strongly recommended.

I started about 45 mins west of Larigutu, with the challenging ride offset by the views, which thankfully cleared from the initial cloud!

Jardim dos Herois da Patria Larigutu was a little surreal, a huge memorial arch in the middle of seemingly nowhere.

It was then time to start hiking, heading up toward the western peak of Mundo Perdido.

It was a varied and attractive landscape to hike through.

There was a sizeable grave and cross.

The others graves and building foundations nearby apparently date from before the Portuguese arrived in the early 16th century.

In many places there wasn’t really a path, just thick vegetation to follow our guide through.

There were a number of horses around, which aren’t wild but left to roam.

We didn’t make it to the summit, it was another very hot day in Timor-Leste, but still got some decent views and enjoyed exploring Mundo Perdido.

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