Nino Konis Santana National Park

Timor-Leste's first and largest national park, encompassing the entire eastern tip of the island and the waters offshore. Named after the Falintil resistance commander born in Tutuala. In June 2026, UNESCO recognised the park as Timor-Leste's first Biosphere Reserve.

The park protects tropical lowland vine forest with orchids and ferns, monsoon forest with banyan, rosewood and fig trees, plus an extraordinarily diverse marine ecosystem within the Coral Triangle. Home to rusa deer, cuscus (tree-dwelling marsupials), monkeys, over 200 bird species, and five species of sea turtle. Lake Ira Lalaro, a large saltwater lake, and numerous limestone caves with ancient rock art add cultural significance.

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Notable Landmarks

Uma Lulik Sacred Houses

Found across Lautem Municipality, these striking wooden structures stand elevated on stilts with steep, thatched roofs reaching dramatically toward the sky. Each Uma Lulik is built with deep spiritual meaning, forming a sacred space connecting families and communities to their ancestors. The design and craftsmanship reflect generations of cultural knowledge, with every element symbolising harmony between people, nature, and the divine.

Ili-kere-kere Petroglyphs

Near Tutuala at the eastern tip of Timor-Leste, the Ili-kere-kere cave shelters ancient rock art and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. Set within a dramatic limestone cliff overlooking the sea, this archaeological site offers a rare glimpse into the island's earliest human inhabitants and their artistic expression.