Path of Exile 2: Complete Guide to the Trial of the Ancestors Side Quest

Path of Exile 2 is packed with hidden content beyond its main storyline. From Path of Exile 2 Currency secret bosses to powerful quest rewards, many of the game's optional areas offer permanent character upgrades that are easy to miss if you only follow the campaign path. One of the most rewarding hidden quests is Trial of the Ancestors, a Chapter 4 side quest that grants permanent attribute, resistance, and mana bonuses through Tattoos. It also provides lore-rich storytelling and culminates in a challenging fight against Yama the White.

This guide covers everything you need to know to unlock, progress, and complete the Trial of the Ancestors quest in Path of Exile 2.

How to Unlock Trial of the Ancestors

The Trial of the Ancestors isn't part of the main campaign. Instead, you'll encounter it while exploring the Isle of Kin during the Forgotten Bounty quest in Chapter 4. To begin:

1. Collect the Torn Map Pieces required for Forgotten Bounty.
2. Travel to the Isle of Kin, an optional zone tied to one of the pieces.
3. Venture into the Volcanic Warrens dungeon.
4. Defeat Krutog, Lord of Kin.

After defeating Krutog, you'll discover Matiki imprisoned nearby. Freeing her begins the multi-part Trial of the Ancestors questline, which will carry you across dangerous areas and test both your build and adaptability.

Step-by-Step Quest Walkthrough

Here's the full progression of POE 2 Orbs for sale the quest:

1. Free Matiki - Speak to her after Krutog's defeat.
2. Board the Boat - Matiki joins as a guide.
3. Travel to the Eye of Hinekora - A new area unlocks.
4. Meet Matiki again upon arrival.
5. Peer into the Well of Passing - Gain approval for the trials.
6. Complete the Tests of Mettle - Fight Kaomi, Maata, and Rakiata.
7. Locate the Halls of the Dead - Explore deeper into the dungeon.
8. Optional: Pay Your Respects - Unlock a permanent +5% Maximum Mana bonus.
9. Finish additional trials in the Halls of the Dead.
10. Defeat Yama the White - The final boss encounter.
11. Enter the portal to the Mother - Experience key story dialogue.
12. Speak to Navali - Claim your final reward.