Atauro Island

^{Photo Credit: Atauro Tourism}

Visiting Atauro Island is like stepping into a different world, where life moves slower, and nature takes center stage. Just a short boat ride from Dili (East Timor) Atauro is all about raw, untouched beauty.

The island is perfect if you’re into diving or snorkeling – the reefs here are some of the best in the world.

Apart from the coral gardens and colorful reef fish, you’ll find fascinating macro life like nudibranchs, shrimps, crabs, and pipefishes.

If you’re lucky, you might even encounter bigger marine creatures like reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, or the elusive mola mola.

A trip to Atauro is best combined with snorkeling with blue and sperm whales that pass through the nearby Ombai Strait from September to November.

Keep an eye out in upcoming issues for more details on how to have these incredible encounters.

Explore more:

• Most Biodiverse Reef on Earth: Atauro Island (video)

• Compass Dive Resort (accommodation and dive operator)