Timor, Leste Go! feat. Mt. Ramelau | NYE in East Timor (via Bali)

Imagine a place where the sun rises over mist-wrapped mountains, the ocean glows electric turquoise, and the only thing crowding the beach is a curious sea turtle. Welcome to Timor-Leste, the secret half-island paradise that time and mass tourism forgot.

Located 600 km north of Australia, this is Southeast Asia’s wildest, youngest country. The world’s newest democracy, born in 2002 after centuries of Portuguese spice traders, revolutionary spirit, and a hard-won fight for freedom. The scars of the past are still healing, but that only makes the beauty feel more raw, more real, more alive.

Here, Catholicism dances with ancient animist beliefs, Portuguese fades into melodic Tetum, and every smile feels like it’s been waiting just for you. Roads wind through coffee plantations and jungle-shrouded hills, then suddenly drop to idyllic white sand beaches where dolphins play just offshore.

Only 30 km across glittering straits lies Atauro Island, a laidback jewel with 9,000 souls, zero traffic lights, and some of the healthiest coral reefs on earth. Snorkel straight off the beach, hike volcanic ridges at sunrise, then kick back with a cold one while fishermen grill the day’s catch under the palms.

And that’s just the warm-up.
On this Trekkup New Year adventure, we’ll chase sunrise from the summit of Mount Ramelau (the highest peak in Timor), wander forgotten coastal villages, swim in hidden lagoons, and toast 2026 in places most travelers will never see. No crowds. No resorts. Just pure, uncut tropical freedom and the friendliest welcome in Asia.

Ready? Leste GO!

Day 1 :: Dili

Arrive in Dili, complete immigration formalities, and check in at the hotel followed by a welcome lunch. In the afternoon we visit the vibrant Tais Market, then head to the impressive Cristo Rei statue (third tallest in the world) and the nearby 6-metre statue of Pope John Paul II. For a taste of local culture we can stop at a traditional cockfight. We end the day with sundowners and relaxed beach time at Areia Branca before dinner.

DAY 2: HATUBUILICO – MAUBISSE

After breakfast and hotel check-out, we depart for the highlands with panoramic views over Dili, the bay, and Atauro Island on the horizon. We pause at the serene WWII Memorial, then continue to the historic town of Aileu for lunch at a scenic vanilla farm. The drive continues through rolling green hills and coffee plantations until we reach charming Maubisse. In the evening a traditional welcome ceremony awaits, complete with warm local hospitality.

DAY 3: MT. RAMELAU

Early wake-up, and depart to the trailhead of Mount Ramelau (2,963 m), Timor-Leste’s highest peak. The steady 2 hr ascent brings us to the summit in time for a spectacular sunrise. Cheer up the sunrise with few selfies, descent and reaching the base by mid morning. Return to the guesthouse for breakfast and a quick refresh, then drive back toward Dili with a refreshing stop at Dokomali Falls – a hidden gem where clear mountain water cascades into a natural pool surrounded by lush jungle, perfect for a cool swim, and a light picnic before continuing to the capital. Overnight in Dili.

DAY 4: ATAURO

Morning transfer to the port and a scenic ride to Atauro Island. After settling in, we spend the day snorkelling over vibrant coral reefs and exploring the laid-back main village. Fresh seafood lunch, relaxed beach time, and the gentle rhythm of island life take over.

DAY 5: ATAURO

Breakfast at leisure, followed by a boat trip along the untouched western coast to snorkel at Atekry, Adara, and Iliana are some of the healthiest reefs in the region. Swim with tropical fish and possibly sea turtles, enjoy lunch on a quiet beach, and soak in the serene surroundings. Return in the late afternoon to prepare for the evening.
New Year’s Eve celebration Atauro-style: beachside bonfire, fresh grilled seafood, local music, and welcoming 2026 under an endless starry sky.

DAY 6: DILI

Morning boat back to the capital. Ease into the day with authentic Timorese coffee, warm sweet breads, and sasoru grilled corn. Free time for final souvenir shopping at the markets or one last swim. Final overnight in Dili. a relaxed evening or hit the streets and continue celebrations.

DAY 7: DEPARTURE TO BALI

Breakfast and transfer to Dili airport for the short flight back to Bali and onward connections home. You may find yourself already planning your return before the plane even takes off.

Level of difficulty: Easy and relaxing.
Activities: Trekking, boating, swimming, sightseeing, snorkelling, optional diving.

Cost: 7690 AED excl. flights to JAKARTA / BALI, incl. connecting flights Bali - Timor, until DEC 20.

On this date we will close the list.

Accommodation & meals: 4 star hotel and beach resort - double sharing. Meals excluded.

Visas: Visa free or on arrival for all passports!

Trip starts: BALI Airport DPS DEC 27 at 08.30
Trip ends: BALI Airport DPS JAN 02 at 10.00

See yah in Timor x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / info@trekkup.com
[Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)