Whale & Dolphin Watching in Ombai-Wetar Strait
Estreito de Wetar
The deep-water strait between Atauro and Dili is a whale migration route. From October to November, boat trips can show blue whales, sperm whales and large pods of dolphins, and whales are often spotted during the crossing.
The Wetar Strait between Atauro Island and Timor Island is more than 3,000 meters deep and serves as a migration route for whales between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. Around October and November, blue whales, sperm whales and pilot whales pass through. Dolphin pods (spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and others) can be seen almost year-round, sometimes hundreds at once. Dive centers in Dili and Atauro run whale-watching trips during the season, and half-day prices vary with the boat type. Dolphins are often seen from ferries or fast boats on the way to and from Atauro. Before heading out, confirm the boat has life jackets and follow whale-watching rules: do not chase or approach the animals. During the monsoon season the waves are rough, so travelers prone to seasickness should take medication in advance.
Opening hours
Seasonal departures (check with dive shop)
Nearby sights
- Makili
- Vila Maumeta & Boneca de Ataúro
- Mount Manucoco
- Beloi Beach
- Atauro Island
- Adara Reef, Atauro
- Akrema Beach