Climate in Timor Leste

Timor Leste has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -24°C in the coldest regions to highs of 46°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 104mm in drier regions to 390mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 390cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Timor Leste a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Timor Leste vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southwest is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 46°C and an annual average of 29°C. Cooler conditions are found in the East, where winter lows drop to -24°C and an annual average of -9°C. This 38°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Timor Leste they visit. The biggest regional differences emerge in summer, with up to 44°C variation across the country. For example, Same in the Manufahi averages 29°C annually, while Irabin de Baixo in the Viqueque averages -9°C.

Timor Leste sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 104mm to 390mm per year. The West receives the most rainfall, at approximately 390mm annually. The Southwest is the driest, with around 104mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The West sees the most snowfall, with up to 390cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.