The Timor-Leste enclave of Oecusse Oé-Cusse is an enclave of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste limited to the north by the Savu Sea and the South, East and West by Indonesian territory. It was the landing place of the Portuguese nearly 500 years ago, on the beach of Lifau.

It has an area of 814 km2 with 48 km of coastline and is located on the north coast of West Timor. The island of Atauro is located directly north of Dili.

Both Oecusse and Atauro Island have been designated Special Economic Zones within Timor-Leste and are now administered by ZEESM TL. Enormous development projects are underway in these areas and they are intended to showcase a model for the development for all of Timor-Leste. For further information including tourism opportunities and resources please visit: https://zeesm.tl/

Yachts are always welcome to visit Atauro Island and Oecusse. Since 2016, a second leg of the Darwin Dili Yacht Rally from Dili to Oecusse has been held and participating yachts are welcomed with a program of events.

Community Tour Packages covering history, nature and culture are available for visitors. For more information call the local tour guide coordinator Antonio Ribeiro +670 7538 6391 or contact the Regional Secretary of Community Tourism in Oecusse +670 7696 0738 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Community-based Tourism can be an enriching experience among people who come from different environments. These initiatives make it possible for travelers to come and share knowledge and experiences with the local people, while both the traveler and the host learn. Please, be respectful with the local traditions, some spots represent sacred places for the Atoni community. Respect the environment and act as locals do.