Lautem Municipality

Where Nature, Culture, and Adventure Unite

Com, Lautem: A Hidden Coastal Paradise

Welcome to Com Village, a hidden coastal gem in Timor-Leste, where azure waters, vibrant cultural traditions, and unspoiled landscapes come together in perfect harmony. Nestled along the northern coastline of Lautem Municipality, Com is more than just a destination—it’s an immersive experience in nature, heritage, and adventure.

As part of the Nino Konis Santana National Park, Timor-Leste’s first and largest national park, Com serves as a gateway to some of the country’s most treasured landscapes and biodiversity hotspots. Situated within a marine protected area (MPA), the village is a haven for snorkeling, diving, and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Beyond its waters, Com provides easy access to stunning landmarks like:

Lake Ira Lalaro– Timor-Leste’s largest inland lake, home to unique wildlife.
Valu Beach– A pristine shoreline perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Jaco Island– An untouched paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and cultural significance.

Com’s strategic location also makes it an ideal base for travelers looking to explore the cultural hubs of Los Palos, Tutuala, and Méhara, with a direct route back to Dili, the capital. Whether you’re looking for underwater adventures, scenic hikes, or a glimpse into Timor-Leste’s rich traditions, Com offers an unforgettable escape.

Aquatic Adventure

Divo into Timor-Leste’s pristine waters and uncover the wonders of marine life.

🤿 Snorkeling – Swim in Com’s crystal-clear waters, home to vibrant coral reefs and an array of marine life, making it a must-visit for snorkeling enthusiasts.

🐬 Dugong & Dolphin Watching (Seasonal) – Embark on a boat tour to witness dugongs, dolphins, and possibly whales in their natural habitat.

🎣 Fishing by the Port – Experience traditional shore fishing using gear rented from the Turtle Conservation Group, with proceeds supporting marine conservation efforts.

🛥️ Boat Trip to Zon Beach – Take a scenic boat ride to Zon Beach, famous for its towering rock formations and vibrant coral reefs. Along the way, stop to feed monkeys and soak in breathtaking coastal views.

🏝️ Secluded Beach Escapes – Com’s coastline is dotted with hidden beaches that offer peace, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery.

- 🏖️ Irara Beach – A true hidden gem, Irara Beach offers a serene escape with calm waters and soft golden sand. Enjoy a refreshing swim or bring a picnic to relax under the shade of swaying palm trees, listening to the gentle ocean waves.
- 🏖️ Airleu Beach – Tucked between rocky cliffs, Airleu Beach is a secluded paradise perfect for a quiet swim and relaxation. Its untouched beauty and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude.
- 🏖️ Salara Beach – With its crystal-clear waters and stunning ocean views, Salara Beach is perfect for a rejuvenating swim and unwinding in nature. Spend the day exploring the shoreline or soaking up the sun in this remote paradise.

📍 Whether you’re diving into the reefs, spotting marine life, or unwinding on a secluded beach, Com’s aquatic adventures promise an unforgettable experience.

Thrills and Trails

For adventurers, Com offers dramatic landscapes, scenic coastal hikes, and unforgettable moments in nature.

🌅 Kamatara Sunrise & Sunset Watch – Just a 10-minute walk from the main road, the cliffs of Kamatara Hills offer unmatched panoramic views of the ocean. Whether you visit at sunrise or sunset, this is a must-see for photographers and nature lovers.

🚶Nature Walks & Beach Trails – Wander along scenic coastal paths, offering stunning views of the sea, rugged cliffs, and lush landscapes.

🏕️ Salara Beach & Campsite – Prepare for a peaceful evening under the stars at Salara Beach, a secluded coastal retreat known for its stunning ocean views and serene atmosphere. Spend the night camping on the beach, listening to the gentle waves under a starlit sky.

🌿 Seaweed (Budu Tasi) Foraging Experience – Join local guides to learn how to collect and prepare Budu Tasi, a traditional seaweed dish deeply rooted in Timorese coastal culture.

🌄 Salara Sunrise Trek – Begin your day with a short trek to the cliffs of Salara Hills, where breathtaking panoramic views of Com’s coastline unfold before you.

Nature and Nurture

Reconnect with nature while contributing to meaningful local conservation efforts.

🐢 Turtle Conservation Workshop – Visit Maun Patricio, Com’s dedicated Turtle Conservationist, and learn about efforts to protect endangered sea turtles. Depending on the season, you may even witness nesting turtles, release hatchlings, or take part in monitoring conservation sites.

🌱 Reforestation Efforts – Contribute to mangrove restoration and coastal ecosystem conservation by participating in local environmental initiatives.

🏞 Visit to Umun Ira Lake – This hidden lake, surrounded by limestone hills, holds deep cultural and ecological significance. A short tour introduces you to the local myths and biodiversity of the area.

☕ Coffee & Sunset by the Turtle Conservation Café – Unwind in beachfront bean bags, sipping on locally brewed coffee and enjoying traditional Timorese snacks, all while watching the sunset paint the ocean in golden hues.

Culture and Heritage

Immerse yourself in Timor-Leste’s vibrant traditions and artistic expressions.

🧵 Tais Weaving Experience – At Sina Guesthouse, local women artisans preserve the ancient craft of handwoven Tais textiles. Learn about the weaving process, rent a Tais for a photo session, or purchase one to support local livelihoods.

🎨 Beach-Inspired Arts and Crafts – Browse handcrafted souvenirs created by local artists, using natural materials like shells, driftwood, and coral fragments. Join a hands-on workshop to create your own keepsake.

🌕 The Traditional Meci Festival (Seasonal: Full Moon in March) – Experience one of Timor-Leste’s most unique festivals, celebrated in Tutuala, Loré, and Com. Watch as locals use traditional ‘eci leu moko hina’ baskets to catch Palolo worms (Meci), marking an important moment in the agricultural calendar. Listen to the rhythmic To’o-Fai and Nanan-fai songs, which blend nature and tradition into a mesmerizing celebration.

Cultural Richness and Language

In Com, the Fataluku language is the heartbeat of the community, reflecting deep cultural roots and identity. While Tetum is widely spoken, many older residents also speak Indonesian, a legacy of Timor-Leste’s historical journey.

Beyond language, Com’s traditions foster a strong sense of community. Whether it’s through the Meci Festival, fishing traditions, or storytelling, villagers uphold their identity through close-knit clan connections—whether at home or abroad.

Culinary Delights

Seafood is at the heart of Com’s culinary traditions. Freshly caught fish, prawns, and crabs are transformed into savory dishes using traditional cooking methods. Whether it’s:

Grilled specialties cooked over an open flame
Hearty seafood stews infused with local spices
Fresh Budu Tasi, a seaweed dish unique to the region

Every meal reflects Com’s deep connection to the ocean.

Why Visit Com?

Unspoiled natural beauty– From coral reefs to limestone cliffs, Com is a paradise waiting to be explored.
Authentic cultural heritage– A village where centuries-old traditions and modern eco-tourism blend seamlessly.
Sustainable tourism– Your visit directly supports local conservation efforts, artisans, and community livelihoods.
Adventure for all travelers– Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adrenaline-fueled activities, Com offers something for everyone.

📍 Visit Com & experience the best of Lautem – where nature, culture, and adventure come together!