Welcome to the sun-dappled waters of Timor-Leste, a hidden gem of marine biodiversity. Here, the cobalt sea pulsates with life, its surface broken by the majestic breach of a blue whale, the largest animal to have ever lived. Our expedition, expertly guided by award-winning wildlife photographer Vanessa Mignon, offers a thrilling, immersive experience into the world of these gentle behemoths. In the pristine waters of Timor-Leste, you’ll experience the grandeur of nature as blue whales glide through the waters with a grace that belies their immense size. Whether it’s your first encounter or your hundredth, the sight of these magnificent creatures is always awe-inspiring, and the chance to swim alongside them, a truly transformative experience.
Under Vanessa’s guidance, you’ll learn to read the waters, anticipate the whales’ movements, and find yourself in the right place at the right time for that perfect shot. With her extensive knowledge of cetaceans and passion for their preservation, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of these marine titans and their crucial role in our planet’s health. While the blue whales are the undisputed stars of our journey, Timor-Leste’s vibrant marine environment teems with an abundance of life. Be prepared for unexpected encounters with other marine species, such as playful dolphins and sleek manta rays, each interaction a testament to the remarkable biodiversity of the region.
This expedition goes beyond the thrill of the encounter, it’s about forging a connection with nature that lasts long after you’ve returned home. It’s about understanding our place in the intricate web of life, and the importance of preserving these amazing ecosystems for future generations. Together, we’ll explore the richness of Timor-Leste’s culture, its warm-hearted people, and its breathtaking landscapes. Each day ends with the setting sun coloring the sky in hues of orange, and the feeling of anticipation for the underwater wonders that the new day will bring.
Join us on this unforgettable journey and come face-to-face with the titans of the deep, as you swim in harmony with nature and create lifelong memories. For when you dive into the blue, you dive into the essence of our shared existence on this beautiful planet.
November 9 – 16, 2023
November 2 – 9, 2023
Amos Nachoum is a distinguished figure in wildlife and underwater photography, seamlessly combining exploration and artistry for over 45 years. His dedication to capturing the essence of marine life has garnered him prestigious accolades, including twice winning the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year in animal behavior and the Siena Photo Competition in ‘Animals in Their Environment’ category.
Amos’s photographic excellence has earned him the title of Nature Photographer of the Year 2021 by Wilderness Photography. His impact on the artistic and conservation communities has been recognized with the NOGI Award in Art, solidifying his status as a leader in his field. His works have graced prominent publications like National Geographic, Time, and The New York Times, showcasing his ability to tell compelling visual stories.
In 2019, his documentary “Picture of His Life” unveiled his relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to marine conservation. As the founder of Big Animals Expeditions, he leads private expeditions, ensuring safe and intimate wildlife encounters during peak seasons. These expeditions, whether on land or in the ocean, reflect his immaculate safety record and deep respect for the natural world.
By choosing to embark on an expedition with Amos, adventurers open themselves up to a transformative experience. They learn from a maestro whose life’s work resonates with the pulse of the oceans and the dance of wildlife across diverse habitats. Whether a seasoned photographer or a nature enthusiast, participants in Amos’s expeditions gain unparalleled insight and a unique opportunity to connect with the wild.
Additionally, his work in marine conservation and education has not gone unnoticed. Amos has been named Seakeepers’ Man of the Year, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to the ocean and its inhabitants. Through his expeditions, workshops, and storytelling, he continues to inspire, educate, and ignite a passion for conservation in hearts worldwide.
Situated in the heart of Dili Central, Timor Plaza Hotel and Apartments is a top-tier accommodation choice, pairing convenience with comfort. A mere stone’s throw from Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, the hotel’s prime location atop the bustling Timor Plaza ensures everything you need is within reach. With three levels of shopping, international eateries like Gloria Jeans and Burger King, and an adjoining cinema, entertainment is at your fingertips. If relaxation is your goal, indulge in the plaza’s massage services or opt for a session in your room.
Each of the 50 meticulously designed rooms comes with complimentary amenities such as Wi-Fi, airport transfers, gym access, and breakfast for two at the on-site international restaurant. While dining, savor the sweeping vistas of Dili.
One of youngest nations in the world, became independent from Indonesia with the support of the United Nations in 2002. Besides being part of the Ring of Fire – the most seismically active region on earth, Timor Leste is also part of the Coral Triangle ; the epicenter for biodiversity.
Our expedition adventure to Timor Leste will take place in the Strait of Ombai, which is located in East Timor between Dili (the capital) and the island of Atauro. The strait is some 17mi (30km) wide and right in the path of the famous Indonesian current as it streams between the main islands of Alor and Wetar, carrying a rich cargo of nutrients from the deep basins of the Banda Sea to the north.
This is an ocean superhighway were 170 million cubic feet (5 million cubic meters ) of sea water per second pass between the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean. With so much water, current and nutrients moving through this area, it is a magnet to many pelagic and cetacean animal species.
Timor Leste probably has one of the best shore diving in the world, entries are so easy and within 10 meters from shore and there’s a 20 meters drop-off. Timor is still such a new nation that tourism infrastructure is still at its infancy. Consequently, there are no crowds at the dive sites so imagine having the whole dive site to yourself.
Dili and Atauro are blessed with clear waters year round due to the absence of large rivers on the island — which means no sediment runoff into the ocean — only the fast-flowing ocean waters between the mainland and Atauro, which have formed a deep channel that serves as a conduit for one of the largest seasonal migrations of whales anywhere on Earth.
Whales diversity is similar to what you might find in the reefs, with large populations of blue whales, beaked whales, melon headed whales, short finned pilot whales, and multiple dolphin species migrating between the Indian and Pacific Oceans each year between October and December.
You can reserve now by either paying a 33% deposit through our online reservation system or by mailing a check.
If you’d prefer to mail a check to our office or arrange for a wire transfer, please get in touch with us via the Contact BigAnimals form below.
All trip costs are subject to change without prior notice until your reservation is confirmed. In order to join an expedition, you are required to carry trip, health, and dive (if applicable) insurance. This information as well as your passport photo will be requested after you place your deposit.
Full payment is due no later than 90 days before departure. We reserve the right to sell any space that is not paid in full by 60 days before departure.
Your deposit reserves your place on the trip. However, the full amount is due 90 days or more before the expedition date begins.
You will receive a confirmation email when your application is received. When your deposit is complete, you will receive trip confirmation. Complete trip details will be sent upon final payment.
View the Expedition Page for Total Trip Price and Cancellation Policies
| Dates (Timor Leste) | November 2 – 9, 2023, November 9 – 16, 2023 |
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