About

Nino Konis Santana Biosphere Reserve

Where Nature Meets Tradition

Welcome to the heart of Timor‑Leste’s natural and cultural treasures. The Nino Konis Santana Biosphere Reserve is our country’s first UNESCO‑recognised biosphere reserve, protecting nearly 300,000 hectares of forests, mountains, lakes, and vibrant marine waters within the Coral Triangle.

This extraordinary place is home to rare wildlife such as sea turtles, whale sharks, dugongs, and more than 200 species of birds. Beneath the waves, colourful coral reefs and seagrass beds thrive, making it one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth.

But the Reserve is more than nature alone. It also safeguards sacred sites, traditional Uma Lulik houses, and centuries‑old cultural practices that connect local communities to the land and sea.

Our mission is simple: to protect biodiversity, celebrate culture, and invite visitors to experience Timor‑Leste responsibly. Whether you come to hike through orchid‑covered forests, snorkel among coral reefs, or learn from village traditions, the Nino Konis Santana Biosphere Reserve offers a journey into the living heritage of Timor‑Leste.

"The most important roles of Nino Konis Santana National Park are ecosystem balance, flora and fauna protection, and its potential as a natural and eco‑tourism destination."