Things to Know
Running is surprisingly popular in Dili. Part of this is because there are a lot of ex-pats there, and part is because it is a sport that doesn’t require a lot of equipment, and thus is relatively cheap (at least this is my guess). I saw lots of ex-pats running. However, I did not see many women running on their own. The women I saw were either in pairs or with men.
The only places that seemed suitable for running were along the ocean. There was usually a sidewalk, and it was in usually in decent condition.
Where to Run
The Harbor Route
Distance: 2.89 miles/ 4.65km
Terrain: Flat. Mostly on sidewalk, but a small area along the road. Sidewalk is in good condition.
This route takes you past some statues and pretty government buildings, all while Atauro is visible out in the ocean.
Christ the Redeemer Route
Distance: 7.16 mile/11.12 km (if done as an out and back)
Terrain: Flat, aside from the large hill leading up to Christ the Redeemer, which has stairs. A large portion of the route is along the road, not on a sidewalk.
Google Maps hates this route. I couldn’t get either Google maps or MapMyRun to create this course. The idea is to start at the green point, run to the red point, then turn around and run back to the green point.
I didn’t run this route, but walked a good portion of it. There were a lot of ex-pats running this route. It could be nice to run to the statue, then walk to one of the beachside bars for a drink, before taking a taxi back to your hotel.
What to Wear
Dili is really hot, but is also located in a conservative Catholic country. That being said, there are lots of foreigners working there. My advise is to wear a short sleeved shirt that covers the shoulders, and shorts or 3/4 length pants. And sunscreen of course.
Dangers
- I literally saw one woman, other than me, running solo while I was in Dili. This is not to say that other women do not run alone, I just didn’t observe it.
- I got chased by a group of boys who pinched my behind. I didn’t feel unsafe, and they seemed like pre-teens who were trying to entertain themselves. Nevertheless, it was a bit unsettling, and explained why the majority of women ran with others.
- This is someplace I absolutely would not run at night.
Tips
- Consider running with a partner
- Run during daylight hours, preferably dawn or dusk, as it gets quite hot.
