The Resistance Trek

Timor-Leste carries an unfortunate international reputation for being dangerous, largely a hangover from the violence around its independence and the 2006 crisis. The reality today is very different. There have been no major conflicts since 2006, and the country is now a stable democracy that has held regular peaceful elections with orderly changes of government. Timorese people are known for being warm and hospitable, and most travellers are struck by how welcoming the country feels. As anywhere, it still pays to travel smart. As of September 2026, the Australian Government advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Timor-Leste, due to the threat of crime and limited healthcare options, mainly petty crime and limited medical facilities outside Dili. This is exactly where travelling with us makes the difference: you'll be with experienced Timorese guides who know the country intimately, have reliable contacts throughout, and follow thorough risk management procedures at every stage.

All international flights land at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili (airport code DIL). Qantas, Airnorth and Aero Dili all operate flights into Dili via Darwin (only a 1 hour flight!). You can also fly to Dili from Bali, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Xiamen, or travel overland from Kupang in Indonesian West Timor.

You should be comfortable walking around 4 to 6 hours on most trekking days, over steep and uneven terrain. It's manageable for reasonably active travellers, with Mt Matebian the most challenging day (you can sit that day out if you'd prefer, and spend time at the guesthouse and community areas). Part of what makes this trek great is that even though we walk through remote areas, vehicle access is very good, so on any given day you can choose to walk less and relax at the accommodation while the rest of the group tackles the full route.

In Dili you'll stay at Hotel Esplanada, a relaxed beachfront hotel a short drive from the airport. On the trek we stay in local guesthouses and camp beneath beautiful night skies, providing the tents and mattresses, with everything set up and ready at the end of each day. Out on the trek accommodation is basic: expect unreliable electricity, cold water, and squat toilets in some spots. It's all part of the adventure, and reaching places very few travellers ever see is what makes this trip so authentic.

You only need to carry your day pack. We have vehicle support meeting us at the end of each day with your main bag and camp set up!

You'll be guided throughout by experienced Timor Unearthed leaders, supported by local community guides along the track. On parts of the trek, resistance fighters and their families guide us themselves, sharing first-hand stories and connections to the Resistance that you simply couldn't get on your own. It's these encounters that bring each place to life, and they mean you're in the hands of people who know both the terrain and its history intimately.

We take a maximum of 12 trekkers per group.

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