Mount Matebian (Matebean)

2,316 m (7,598 ft)

The main route starting in Uaiboro is about 9 km (5.6 mi) in total and takes roughly 4.5 hours up to the summit and 3.5 hours to descend. The descent takes longer when the ground is wet and slippery.

There is another lesser-known route starting from Quelicai. This route also takes about a day to complete.

The vegetation up Mount Matebian consists of grassy slopes, sparse trees, and lots of shrubbery. You’ll find rock outcrops on the higher slopes and near the summit. 

The trail starts off on a dirt road which turns into a dirt path. You’ll pass through rural villages on the lower slopes. The trail gets steeper as the hike progresses and there are places where you’ll need to scramble over boulders.

The summit has many grey limestone outcrops and a statue of Christ on a built-up platform. When is it clear the view stretches across to Matebian Feto and beyond.

The descent goes the same way. It can be slippery and dangerous when it is wet, so take care.

Timor-Leste has a tropical climate. The dry season is from May to November and the wet season is from December to April. The trail can be slippery in the wet season. This is not a good time to plan a climb.

The best time of year to plan a climb up Matebian is from August to October. This is when the sky is clearest and the temperature, rain and humidity are at their lowest.

You’ll need some decent hiking boots for this trek. Hiking poles may be useful but are not a necessity.

At about 2,160 m (7,086 ft) above sea level, there is a dilapidated shelter. There are also flat areas where you can rest on the rest of the trail. There are no other special facilities. Make sure to take enough water and snacks with you.

A guide is necessary to climb this mountain. Clouds frequently roll in as the day progresses causing ‘white-outs’ in which it is easy to get lost. There are also sections where other trails zig-zag over the path making it easy to lose your way. 

It is best to ask for a guide at the police station in advance.

Mount Matebian is located on the eastern side of Timor Leste. It is a 5-hour drive from Dili, Timor Leste’s largest city. 

To get there, first, you’ll need to get to Dili, From there you can go by bus to Bacau. From Bacau, you can get to Uaiboro, the starting point, via Baguia or Laga. you’ll likely need to hire a 4WD vehicle as public transport is not consistent or reliable.

This peak is remote, and there seems to be a trend of locals disliking foreigners. Make sure you go with a guide and preferably a group. Pack a first aid kit in case of scrapes and falls.