Tourism Ministry Welcomes UNESCO Recognition of Timor-Leste’s First Biosphere Reserve

Dili, Timor-Leste, June 15, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / The Ministry of Tourism of Timor-Leste welcomes UNESCO’s recognition of Nino Konis Santana National Park as the country’s first Biosphere Reserve, a milestone that elevates Timor-Leste’s profile as an emerging destination for nature-based and sustainable tourism. The official recognition was approved on 5 June 2026 during the 38th Session of the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (ICC-MAB), held at the Itaipu Biosphere Reserve in Hernandarias, Paraguay.

Located in Lautem Municipality at the eastern tip of the country, Nino Konis Santana National Park brings together exceptional terrestrial, coastal and marine environments, including tropical forests, limestone landscapes, coral reefs, beaches, and culturally significant sites. The UNESCO designation places one of Timor-Leste’s most distinctive landscapes on the global map and reinforces the country’s appeal to eco-conscious visitors seeking authentic, low-impact travel experiences.

Recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s ecologically significant landscapes, the reserve includes the country’s largest remaining primary forest, important freshwater ecosystems around Lake Iralalaro, and coral reefs in the Coral Triangle that support rich marine life. Combined with birdwatching, hiking, snorkelling, diving, community-based cultural experiences and visits to sacred and archaeological sites, the recognition broadens Timor-Leste’s tourism product offering and strengthens its competitiveness in the growing sustainable tourism market.

“UNESCO’s recognition of Nino Konis Santana National Park as Timor-Leste’s first Biosphere Reserve is a proud moment for our country and a significant step forward for our tourism sector,” commented Antonio da Silva, Director General of Tourism. “As global demand grows for destinations that value sustainability, this recognition provides a powerful platform to attract travellers who want to explore responsibly and contribute positively to the places they visit.”

ABOUT TIMOR-LESTE: Named by multiple publications as one of the top 20 countries to visit in 2026, Timor-Leste is emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling travel destinations, offering visitors authentic, unspoiled experiences. With a distinctive blend of Timorese culture and Portuguese heritage, the country is home to pristine beaches, exceptionally rich coral reefs, world-class diving, dramatic mountain landscapes, and traditional villages. With direct international air links to Australia, Bali, China, Malaysia, and Singapore, Timor-Leste invites travellers to discover rich traditions, remarkable natural beauty, and warm hospitality in a destination that remains refreshingly untouched.