The federal government doubts sensational claims by a British man and American woman about being attacked on the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea will have any impact on the trek's popularity with Australians.
The couple, both 31, made global headlines in January claiming they had been stripped, beaten and tortured, and feared being eaten.
The woman also reported being raped.
PNG police and experienced trekking companies have since questioned aspects of their story.
International Development and the Pacific Minister Steve Ciobo doesn't think the negative publicity would have an impact on Australia's love affair with the Kokoda Track.
Its popularity was tethered to Australia's World War II military history, and was the "regional birthplace of the ANZAC spirit", he said.
"I think that will endure," he told AAP on Thursday.
Australians generally went as part of a well-organised tour group, and with robust safety measures in place.
Walking the track as lone travellers was "unwise" and best discouraged.
"I think anyone who makes the decision to do Kokoda Track recognises it's challenging ... physically a very tough undertaking to make," he said.
The minister said walking the track one day was high on his bucket list.
More than 5000 Australians walk the track each year.
