Dili - Balibo Day Tour

Service Description

Balibo is a small town in the mountains of Timor-Leste, near the Indonesian border. Though peaceful today, it holds a powerful place in the country’s history. In October 1975, during the lead-up to Indonesia’s invasion of Timor-Leste, five Australian-based journalists — known as the Balibo Five — were killed in Balibo while covering the conflict. Their deaths became a symbol of the struggle for truth and justice and brought international attention to the occupation that followed. Balibo also played a role during the Indonesian occupation (1975–1999), facing years of hardship like many parts of the country. After independence, the town began to rebuild, focusing on community strength, heritage, and peace. Today, visitors can see the Balibo Fort, which dates back to Portuguese colonial times, and the Balibo Five House, now a community center and museum honoring the journalists and the town’s history.