Gunung Rinjani towers 12,224 feet above the island of Lombok and regularly reminds those who are adventurous enough to hike in Mount Rinjani National Park how active it still is.
Fortunately, a new cone has formed within the caldera lake that covers about 20 square miles; The lake traps the hot lava in a spectacular vapor display, preventing the lava from threatening nearby villages.
Mount Rinjani is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, comparable in height to Mount Fuji in Japan. For those with the physical stamina, energy, and spirit to walk Gunung Rinjani, the payoff is incredible.
Trekking Mount Rinjani
Trekking Mount Rinjani is not for everyone. Reaching the crater rim requires a high level of physical endurance and exposure to cold temperatures. Continuing the additional 3,000 feet to the summit requires even more effort, and may not even be an option depending on your guide. Some hikers have died while attempting the summit on their own.
Most travelers choose to hike to the crater rim, which offers the best views of the active cone. The cone, nicknamed “New Mountain,” appears as a miniature volcano surrounded by a lake. A hike to the edge generally requires two days and one night of camping, however longer tours are available.
- Read about other great volcano hikes in Indonesia.
Hire a guide
Hiring the right guide will make or break your Rinjani experience. While it is possible to hike Gunung Rinjani without a guide who assumes you have the proper equipment, it is technically illegal and significantly more dangerous.
There are numerous guides in the tourist town of Senggigi on Lombok, however many are not reputable. If you have any doubts, it is possible to consult possible guides with the tourism police for complaints.
Alternatively, wait until you reach the hiking center at Senaru , the base of the village on the north side of the volcano, before hiring a guide.
The following providers have an excellent reputation among Rinjani hikers:
- Club de Trekking Rinjani
- Jl Raya Senggigi km. 08, Senggigi, West Lombok NTB, Indonesia, tel: +62 370 693202, correo electrónico: [email protected] mail.com , sitio: rinjanitrekclub.com
- Las aventuras de juan
- Senaru Village, Distrito de Bayan, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara Indonesia
- Tel / WhatsApp: +62 8175788018, correo electrónico: [email protected] , sitio: rinjanimaster.com
- Galang Ijo Adventures
- Senaru Village, Bayan District, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara Indonesia, tel: +62 (0) 819 1740 4198, correo electrónico: [email protected] , sitio: http://www.galangijo.com/
Costs
Eliminating the middle man and going directly to Senaru to make trekking arrangements will save you money. Rinjani Trekking Center in Senaru is legit and provides guides, equipment and chargers for your adventure.
Prices vary widely between guides and trekking centers. Expect to pay around US $ 175 for a basic hike to the edge with gear and food. When hiring a guide, ask if the price includes the entrance fee to the national park.
Entrance to Rinjani National Park costs around IDR 250,000 (about US $ 18.75) for a permit. Read about money in Indonesia.
Take away gear
Your provider will provide most of what you need for the Gunung Rinjani trek, but it is your responsibility to bring the following:
- Reliable flashlight and a backup light source.
- Layered cold weather clothing. Temperatures at the top of Rinjani can drop close to freezing.
- Solid hiking boots. Sandals will not be suitable for the hike.
- Rain clothes.
- Snacks to replace calories burned on the go.
- Multiple Bottles of Water – You’ll need more than your guide can carry.
What to expect
The first day of your hike will likely have you hike up the steep path to the base camp at Pos III or to the crater rim. Walking the distance to the crater rim on the first day allows for a spectacular sunrise the next day.
On the second day, the hike will continue along a somewhat dangerous path to the edge of the hot springs . Some groups camp a second night in the hot springs before returning to Senaru the next day.
Get there
Gunung Rinjani is located on the island of Lombok, easily accessible by boat from Bali or the Gili Islands.
Most people start out by collecting some basic supplies and information in the resort town of Senggigi, then head to one of the base towns like Senaru or Batu Koq .
When to go
The only suitable time to walk around Gunung Rinjani is during the dry months between May and October . The high season is from June to August. The mud, cloudy views, and dangerous conditions make the hike worth trying during the rainy season.
Going to the summit
For serious hikers with the summit in mind, start your hike on the Sambulan Lawang ascent route , rather than the easier and more usual path to the crater rim. Getting to the top requires a minimum of two nights, preferably three, on the volcano.
The last 3,000 feet to the top is very steep terrain riddled with shales and loose footings.
In and around Senaru
Before starting your hike, take a look at the Air Terjun Sendang Gila waterfalls . The impressive waterfalls are well worth the pleasant 30 minute hike and can be done without a tour.
