DaTerra is an agroecological and educational farm near Baucau, about two hours’ drive east of Dili, where you can stay in traditional-style bungalows, see permaculture in practice and join guided hikes into the surrounding hills. Founded by Fernando Madeira as a social enterprise, it uses tourism income to fund its nursery, seed bank and free school tours, and guest reviews from 2025 show it still welcomes visitors.
The farm, nursery and seed bank
DaTerra runs a nursery of more than 200 plant and tree species and one of the largest seed banks in Timor-Leste, used to develop local seeds and trial useful heirloom varieties. The farm is laid out as a permaculture demonstration site, so visitors can see how the different parts work together:
- animal raising
- worm and dry composting
- tree and plant propagation in the nursery
- seed saving
- fish farming and water management
Staying at DaTerra
Guests sleep in bungalows inspired by traditional Timorese houses and built from local materials such as mud, rice straw and sand. Meals use produce from the farm and neighbouring families. Facilities are simple: guest reviews note there is no air conditioning or hot water, so come prepared for farm life. The farm is listed on booking sites as being in Buruma, a few kilometres from Baucau town.
Book ahead, as there are only a few rooms, and bring US dollars in cash.
Hikes and excursions
DaTerra works with local communities to offer guided trips around Baucau municipality, at different levels of difficulty:
| Trip | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Mount Matebian | A long hike to one of the country’s sacred peaks; see our Matebian guide |
| Mundo Perdido (“Lost World”) range | Forested hills with wide views |
| Hot springs and waterfalls | Natural pools and cascades in the region; see Venilale |
| Boat trips off the north coast | Looking for dolphins and whales with local boatmen; see dolphins and whales |
Ask the farm about current trips, prices and guides when you book.
Education and community
The farm offers free tours for schools and teachers, and has become a local attraction in its own right: more than 3,500 people have visited, according to the national tourism site. Its wider aim is to show that small, low-budget, ethical tourism can work in rural Timor-Leste, and to encourage young people to start similar businesses in their home towns.
Getting there
Baucau is about 120 km east of Dili. The official tourism site gives about two hours to the farm; allow up to three, depending on traffic and roadworks. Buses leave Dili’s Becora terminal in the morning, but a hired car with a driver is easier; see getting around Timor-Leste. While you are in the area, visit Baucau’s Old Town and its spring-fed swimming pool; see our Baucau guide and more ideas in top things to do in Timor-Leste.