Manatuto

Manatuto sits on the north coast east of Dili where the Laclo, one of the country's largest rivers, reaches the sea, a flat, low town stretching some six kilometres, with salt pans worked along the shore and the dry hills of the north coast rising behind it; it is known for its salt and its tamarind trees. The coast road runs through the town toward Baucau. The salt is worked by hand through the dry season.

What you'll find

• The Laclo river mouth - one of the country's largest rivers reaching the sea.
• The salt pans - the workings along the shore.
• The tamarind trees - the other thing the town is known for.
• The dry hills - the north coast country rising behind.

When to go

May to November is the dry season. The rains from December raise the river considerably. Salt working runs in the dry months.

Practical notes

There is little arranged for visitors and the town is a stop rather than a destination. Facilities are basic.

Nearby

Laleia is east, and Dili is west.

Key facts