The presence and diversity of cetaceans in Timor-Leste’s waters has led to the development of whale watching, both on a commercial and small-scale basis. Whale watching is defined as viewing activities in the natural environment of any cetacean species, observed from land, sea, or air.
If managed well, this activity can provide a sustainable income from whales, which can reduce damaging practices — such as the harvesting of pilot whales carried out in Indonesia, close to Timor-Leste. Whale watching has the potential to generate many benefits to local communities, contributing to long-term sustainable development.
Organisations: Conservation International (CI), Government of Timor-Leste