Name: Lombok
Rating: 4.5

Mount Rinjani Trek, Lombok Overview

Towering over the island of Lombok, the colossal Mount Rinjani, also referred to as the Gunung Rinjani, is the second-highest volcanic mountain in Indonesia. It is one of the most popular treks all over the world. Even though climbing to the summit is not easy and often exhilarating, the breathtaking panoramic view from the top is unforgettable.

With thousands of vibrant purple flowers and bright green bushes that grow on the rocky black soil on the summit, the mountain is home to nature in its purest form. Being a part of the renowned ‘ring of fire’, the Gunung Rinjani is also of utmost spiritual significance for the residents of Lombok. In fact, the very name of the mountain is said to come from the archaic Javanese term, which may be translated to ‘God’. With an elevation of over a whopping three thousand and seven hundred meters above sea level, the mountain looms large over the entire island of Lombok.

An Ultimate Mount Rinjani Trekking Guide

A trek to Mount Rinjani is not for the faint-hearted travellers or amateur hikers. Lush with tall trees and sprinkled with steep waterfalls, Mount Rinjani draws in enthusiastic people in large numbers to itself every day. Inside the huge, gaping crater of the mountain is an active volcano, known as the Mount Barujari, which often emits thick clouds of smoke in the air. Right at the bottom of this crater resides a tranquil lake shaped like a crescent, with cool, turquoise waters, known as the Lake Segara Anak.

Beginning with a climb of about one thousand and five hundred meters, the trekking route of Mount Rinjani covers a distance of over eight kilometers and lasts for a minimum of two days. During the latter part of the trek, the levels of elevation of the mountain undergo rapid and incessant transformations, which lead to an increased difficulty while climbing. In addition, the trail maintenance is almost non-existent, and the trekking route is quite sandy, as well as slippery, while at the same time, exceedingly steep.

The trek on the second day usually begins in the late hours of the night, so that one may reach the summit before dawn and take in the mesmerizing view as the sun rises against a backdrop of a beautiful blend of dark gray and vermilion. During the climb up to the summit, one has to experience another elevation gain of about one thousand meters. The route continues to get narrower as well as more slippery with the ascent.

After reaching the summit, the trekkers climb down the Mount Rinjani, which seems to be equally difficult. Since it is quite steep, descending the mountain requires almost equal strength as well as balance as is needed while climbing up.

Where to Begin Trek:

Primarily, there are two different starting points to climb up Mount Rinjani, namely, the quaint village of Senaru or Sembalun.

How to get to Senaru?

Located in North Lombok Regency, Senaru lies at a distance of about two hundred and seventeen kilometers from Denpasar and may be reached in around seven hours by private transport via Lembar – Padang Bai.

From Lembar, Senaru lies at a distance of about one hundred and nine kilometers and one may reach the latter in around three hours by private transport via Jl. Raya Bayan.

How to get to Sembalun?

Located in North Lombok Regency, Sembalun lies at a distance of about two hundred and twenty-two kilometers from Denpasar and may be reached in around seven hours by private transport via Lembar – Padang Bai.

From Lembar, Sembalun lies at a distance of about one hundred and sixteen kilometers and one may reach the latter in around three hours by private transport via Jl. Raya Mataram – Labuhan Lombok.

The only mode of public transportation is the taxi.

Trek Options

Trekkers may choose their trekking routes in keeping with their physical abilities as well as convenience. There are three different levels of treks on Mount Rinjani, which have been listed as follows.

1. Two Days, One Night

The two days, one night trek to Mount Rinjani is the shortest route.

If you start from Sembalun, you have an option to reach the summit at sunrise, even though it will require a lot of energy. On the other hand, if you plan to begin your trek from the village of Senaru, you shall be taken through the path that is home to the crater rim and lies opposite to the summit. Even though you shall not be able to reach the summit or even the Lake Segara Anak, but the gorgeous view of the crater almost makes up for it. This trek is ideal for those who do not wish to exert themselves much, while at the same time wish to visit Mount Rinjani.

2. Three Days, Two Nights

The most popular as well as recommended trek to Mount Rinjani is that of three days and two nights. In this, you shall get enough time to explore the mountain along with all its hot springs as well as the gaping crater, Mount Barujari in all its majesty with its Lake Segara Anak.

3. Four Days, Three Nights

Pretty much the same as the trek that lasts for three days and two nights, this trek shall also give you enough time to explore the mountain along with its natural beauty, its crater, the lake, as well as the hot springs. In addition, you shall also get more time to sit and relax in order to enjoy the mesmerizing atmosphere in the midst of nature.

Tour Operators

Even though it is not really impossible for a person to trek Mount Rinjani without a professional tour operator, it is highly unlikely. Keeping in mind the difficult routes that lead to the summit of the gigantic mountain, trekking without an expert is thoroughly discouraged. If you still decide to climb up Mount Rinjani alone, you shall be required to sign in at the main office stationed at the entrance of the Mount Rinjani National Park and pay the quoted entrance fee. However, if you do not wish to face any inconvenience while trekking, you may book a tour operator in order to help you through the journey as well as provide you with all the required amenities.

One of the most reputed trekking operators in Lombok is the Rinjani Trekking Planner, also referred to as the Hajar Trekking. Mainly dealing with personalized and customized itineraries, this operator includes all the necessary equipment for both the novice as well as the experienced trekkers. In addition, all your belongings, except for your backpack, are carried by a local porter to make the journey more comfortable for you.

Packages

1. The Beginner Package

Two Days, One Night – Crater Rim via Senaru

Considered to be the easiest trekking route, the two days, one night trekking package shall take you through a moderate route. Ideal for beginners with little or no prior experience on the mountains, or those who are short on time, this trek begins from Senaru and ends at the crater rim located on the Senaru side of the mountain, from where you may take in the breathtaking views of the sprawling landscape around you. Here, you shall camp at an altitude of over two thousand and six hundred meters above sea level at the Senaru crater rim, while enjoying the gorgeous views during sunrise and sunset.

Price Range

a. IDR 2767986 per person for two people

b. IDR 2484090 per person for four people

c. IDR 2200194 per person for six people

d. IDR 1916298 per person for eight people

e. IDR 1774350 per person for ten people or more

2. The Experienced Package

Two Days, One Night – Crater Rim and Summit

Those who are somewhat experienced in trekking may choose this package which shall take you to the summit without a visit to the second crater, Lake Segara Anak, or the hot springs. Starting from Sembalun, this route passes through the crater rim and finally reaches the summit on the following day.

Price Range

a. IDR 3051882 per person for two people

b. IDR 2767986 per person for four people

c. IDR 2484090 per person for six people

d. IDR 2200194 per person for eight people

e. IDR 1916298 per person for ten people or more

3. The Best-Seller Package

Three Days, Two Nights – Mount Rinjani Summit and Lake Segara Anak

This trek is ideal for those who wish to have a complete and fulfilling trekking experience on Mount Rinjani. Passing through both the crater rims of the mountain, taking a dip in the hot springs and the lake, as well as camping beneath billions of stars at night before enjoying a gorgeous sunrise, this trek shall give you some unforgettable memories to keep. If time permits, you may also get to see the Tiu Kelep and the Sendang Gile waterfalls.

Price Range

a. IDR 3619674 per person for two people

b. IDR 3335778 per person for four people

c. IDR 3051882 per person for six people

d. IDR 2767986 per person for eight people

e. IDR 2484090 per person for ten people or more

4. The Advance Package

Four Days, Three Nights – Extra Night via Sembalun

Like the three days, two nights trek, this too, gives you a complete experience on Mount Rinjani, which includes a trip to both the crater rims, a climb to the summit, bathing in the Lake Segara Anak as well as the hot springs, and finally, a view of the sunrise and sunset from an altitude of over two thousand and six hundred meters. In addition, you will get an extra night to explore the mountain and spend a couple of hours to sit and breathe in the fresh air.

Price Range

a. IDR 4471362 per person for two people

b. IDR 4187466 per person for four people

c. IDR 3903570 per person for six people

d. IDR 3619674 per person for eight people

e. IDR 3335778 per person for ten people

5. The Family Trip Package

Four Days, Three Nights – Curated for Families with Children

Starting from Sembalun, this trekking package is specially curated for families with children. Providing greater comfort, privacy, as well as completing the journey with more flexibility, this package is budget-friendly since the prices applicable to children are lesser than the prices for each adult. Booking this tour package shall give you plenty of time to rest, which is also convenient for the little kids.

Price Range

For adults

IDR 3903570 per person

For children

A ten per cent discount on the price per person for adults is applicable

A twenty-five per cent discount is applicable if the child is below twelve years of age

6. The Shortest Trek Package

One Day Hike to the Senaru Crater Rim

In case you do not have much time in your hands but still wish to experience the thrill of a short trek, this package is perfect for you. This trekking package includes splendid views from the crater rim and a visit to the Lake Segara Anak.

Price Range

a. IDR 2626038 per person for two people

b. IDR 2342142 per person for four people

c. IDR 2058246 per person for six people

d. IDR 1774350 per person for eight people

e. IDR 1490454 per person for ten people

Things Included in each Package:

i. Pickup and dropoff to Lombok International Airport, Mataram, Bangsal Harbor, Senggigi, and some other areas in Lombok.

ii. Three meals per day along with snacks like fresh fruits, candies and cookies

iii. Drinking water, beverages, and soft drinks

iv. Licensed trek guide along with a porter

v. Camping Equipment such as tents, cooking gear, sleeping mats, portable washrooms, sleeping bags, and camping pillows

vi. Entrance Fee for the Mount Rinjani National Park

vii. Trekking Insurance

viii. A decent hotel accommodation prior to the night of the trek

What to Pack

i. Bring warm clothes like windproof jackets, sweaters, and scarves.

ii. Wear shoes that are appropriate for trekking, like running shoes or hiking boots. Avoid flip flops while trekking.

iii. Bring medicines for headache or nausea.

iv. Carry a flashlight with you.

v. Apply ample amounts of sunscreen and lip balm and carry them with you.

vi. Wear light clothes like a t-shirt and shorts.

vii. Keep a balm or spray in case of a muscle sprain.

viii. Bring a camera to capture the views.

ix. Pack a couple of extra t-shirts, a pair of shorts, and trek pants.

x. Keep personal toiletries like toothbrush, soap, toothpaste, as well as a small towel.

xi. Bring a small backpack.

xii. You may also rent a trekking stick in case you face any difficulty while climbing.

xiii. Bring a swimsuit for bathing in the lake or hot springs.

xiv. Wear a pair of sunglasses to avoid the direct glare of the sun.

xv. Pack a pair of binoculars for a clearer view from the summit.

xvi. Carry an extra bag with you for collecting the trash.

xvii. Bring extra snacks for the trail.

xviii. Keep extra money for personal expenses and for giving a tip to the porter and the guide.

xix. Keep your ID card with you.

Tips

Please do not litter the mountain while trekking.
The price range of each package of the Rinjani Trekking Planner is quoted according to the number of people who will be going on the journey as a group.
The minimum number of people required to book each package is two.
Make sure to check what the trekking operator provides before booking them. Instead of choosing the cheapest tour, it is recommended to go for the better one by spending a little more money.
The chances of sunburn increase with an increase in altitude.
In case you cannot keep up with the trek, do not force yourself to climb up to the summit.

Best Time for Trekking Mount Rinjani

The best time to go on an adrenaline-inducing trekking adventure on Mount Rinjani is between the months of April and December. Each year, Mount Rinjani National Park remains closed from January to March due to heavy rainfall. In fact, the trekking routes may be unexpectedly closed during any time of the year due to sudden earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or rainfall.