Be Malae Lake

Be Malae Lake is a significant coastal lagoon located in the Bobonaro municipality of western Timor-Leste, situated near the historic town of Balibo. This wetland system consists of a brackish lake separated from the sea by a narrow sandbar and is fringed by dense mangrove forests. The area is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, providing a critical sanctuary for over 150 bird species, including the endangered Timor sparrow and various migratory birds from North Asia and Australia. Geographically, the lagoon is framed by rolling hills that contrast sharply with the flat coastal zone. Traditional fishing practices by local communities are still carried out here according to centuries-old customs to ensure the sustainability of aquatic resources. During the Indonesian occupation, the region around the lake was a site of significant political events, but today the focus is on peaceful environmental preservation. Be Malae serves as a prime example of the fragile coastal ecosystems of Timor island, vital for regional biodiversity conservation.

Nearby cities

Maliana

Maliana is located near the border with Indonesia and is an important agricultural center.

Balibo

Balibo is a historical town known for a Portuguese fort.

Fohorem

Fohorem is located near the border and is surrounded by hills.

Liquiçá

Liquiçá is a coastal city west of Dili with picturesque beaches.

Suai

Suai is located in the southwest of the country near the Timor Sea.

Zumalai

Zumalai is located on a river and borders the Timor Sea.

Ainaro

Ainaro is known for its cooler climate and mountainous landscape.

Same

Same is located inland and is surrounded by mountains.

History & landmarks

Marobo Hot Springs

Natural hot springs in the mountains, including the remains of an old Portuguese bath complex.

Letefoho Coffee Plantations

Picturesque plantations in the mountains where world-famous organic coffee is grown at high altitudes.

Virgin Mary Statue on Mount Ramelau

A white alabaster statue of the Virgin Mary perched on the highest peak of the country.

Tasi Tolu Peace Park

An expansive protected area west of Dili, known for its three salt lakes.

Arte Moris Cultural Center

East Timor's first art school and gallery, which promoted local talent after independence.

Nature

Lóis River

The Lóis River is the longest river system in East Timor that carries water year-round.

Lake Maubara

Lake Maubara is a coastal lake west of Dili.

Suai Coast

The southwestern coastal section, characterized by flat beaches and wide river estuaries.

Belulik River

The Belulik River drains the central highlands towards the Timor Sea.

Lake Seloi

Lake Seloi in the Aileu district fills up especially during the rainy season.

Areia Branca Coast

A crescent-shaped stretch of coast in Dili, captivating with its calm, crystal-clear water.

Dolok Oan Coast

A picturesque stretch of coast behind the Cristo Rei, known for its fine sand.

More places

Mount Tapo

A forested mountain in the west, providing shelter for various rare animal species.

Balibo Fort

This old Portuguese fort is best known as the site of the death of the 'Balibo Five'.

Mount Legumau

A steep mountain peak in western Timor-Leste, near the Indonesian border.

Maliana Valley

A broad, fertile valley near the border with Indonesia, ideal for rice cultivation.

Maliana Border Trade Center

An important trading hub near the Indonesian border facilitating the exchange of agricultural goods.

Maliana Rice Fields

Vast, picturesque rice fields in the Maliana plain, considered the rice bowl of Timor-Leste.

Mount Taroman

Mount Taroman in the Covalima district is known for its steep, forested flanks.

Tilomar Nature Reserve

An important forest reserve in the southwest that provides shelter for many endangered bird species and native flora.