Cristo Rei of Dili: How to Visit the Statue and Beaches

About the statue

The copper statue stands 27 metres tall on a globe, 34 metres in all, on the tip of Cape Fatucama. It was unveiled on 15 October 1996 as a gift from the Indonesian government, and its height referred to East Timor as Indonesia's "27th province" at the time. Today it is simply Dili's best-known landmark and a place of worship for Timorese Catholics, with a small chapel beneath it.

Getting there

Take a taxi from central Dili for about USD 5, or mikrolet number 12. The road follows the coast east past Areia Branca to the car park at Cristo Rei Beach. Ask your taxi to wait, or arrange a pick-up time, as taxis are scarce out here in the evening.

The climb

A concrete staircase of 570 steps, mostly shaded by trees, winds up to the statue. Along the way are the 14 Stations of the Cross. It takes 20 to 30 minutes. The views over Dili Bay and across to Atauro are the reward.

The beaches

Cristo Rei Beach at the foot of the stairs is a calm, popular swimming spot. Behind the headland, a path leads down to a quieter cove known locally as "Jesus Backside Beach", good for swimming and snorkelling in calm conditions. Ask locally about conditions and crocodile sightings before swimming, and avoid swimming at dusk.

Practical tips

• Wear good shoes: the steps can be uneven.
• Dress respectfully near the chapel.
• Weekend evenings are busy with families; weekday mornings are quietest.
• Combine the visit with lunch at Areia Branca.