A 7.2km loop walk in the hills behind Dili. One of the best things about hiking in Timor-Leste is that you can basically walk anywhere, as there are plenty of local paths, and access is seemingly never an issue. I figured out this loop by looking at satellite images on Google Maps.

I rode my motorbike out to Ailok Laran, where I suspect almost no one other than locals venture. As usual it was straight uphill, which was hot and sweaty work, even at 7am. Days in Dili don’t seem to gradually warm up, instead as soon as the sun rises it is instantly very hot. There were a few views for compensation for the effort though.

I walked up a wide dirt road, easy walking and very quiet as there were unusually few houses.

There were some lovely views as the morning sun was cast across the landscape.

Mt Fatacama isn’t a proper summit, more just the highest point along that section of ridgeline, but at least it marked the end of the climb.

I walked along the ridgeline enjoying the views and absence of any people or noise (which can be hard to find in Dili).

I took a rather steep shortcut down to the smart looking Kuluhi Chapel.

A little further on was Kuluhi Cemetery. I particularly liked the guitar tombstone.

I continued downhill to the river, though toward the end of the dry season there wasn’t much water in it.

It was a return to civilisation at the bottom, with the sizeable community of Lemorana living alongside the banks of the river.

Flooding is clearly a risk here during the wet season, with extensive new walls in place.

There were good views looking back down the river toward the hills I’d just been in.

I walked past the colourful headquarters of Radio Timor Kmanek.

The final treat was beautiful 360 degree view from a small hill, best seen at the end of the video above.

Next time I do this walk I’ll do it in the reverse direction, starting from the dry river bed, as it is better to ascent the steepest slope.

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