The local Atoni people of Oé-Cusse are known for their strong relationship with nature. Stones, mountains, and rivers have a special meaning for the community of Oé-Cusse, which lives in complete harmony with the environment. In the local Baiqueno language, this powerful relationship is reflected in the expression: “Fautkanaf and Oekanaf,” which translated into English mean: “the earth is our body and the water is our soul.” According to Timorese beliefs: “One who harms nature harms his/her own body.” Hiking through Oe-Cusse is a beautiful way to experience the Atoni’s “Fautkanaf and Oekanaf” way of life.
Oe-Cusse has a rich variety of animals, with some species not found anywhere else in Timor Leste. A total of 261 different bird species have been spotted as well as 235 different coral fish species. Below is a list of some of the varieties of species that can be seen when hiking and swimming around Oé-Cusse.
