Mount Rinjani, the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, stands majestically on the island of Lombok. This active volcano, rising 3,726 meters above sea level, offers one of the most challenging yet rewarding trekking experiences in Southeast Asia. The trek to the summit is not just a physical journey, but also a spiritual one, taking you through diverse landscapes, from dense tropical forests to barren volcanic terrain. Here’s a detailed Mount RInjani 2 days 1 nights trek itinerary to help you make the most of your Rinjani adventure.
Day 1: Arrival and Ascent to Sembalun Crater Rim
Morning:
- 5:00 AM: Start your day early with a hearty breakfast in the village of Sembalun (1,150 meters). This is the most popular starting point for the Rinjani trek, thanks to its gradual ascent, which allows trekkers to acclimatize to the altitude.
- 6:00 AM: Begin your trek from Sembalun. The first leg of the journey takes you through open savannah, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The path is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the trek and enjoy the scenery. After about two hours, you’ll reach Pos 1 (1,300 meters), where you can take a short break.
- 8:00 AM: Continue your trek towards Pos 2 (1,500 meters), which you’ll reach after another hour. The terrain here begins to incline more steeply, and the vegetation becomes denser as you approach the base of the mountain.
Mid-Morning:
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Pos 2 and take a longer break to refuel with snacks and water. The views from here are breathtaking, with the peak of Rinjani looming in the distance.
- 11:00 AM: Set off towards Pos 3 (1,800 meters). This section of the trek is more challenging, with a steeper gradient and rockier terrain. You’ll notice the change in vegetation as you ascend higher, moving from lush green forests to alpine meadows.
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Reach Pos 3 and enjoy a well-deserved lunch break. By now, you’ll be able to see the crater rim in the distance, your target for the day. The air is cooler at this altitude, and you’ll start to feel the effects of the elevation, so take it easy.
- 2:00 PM: Continue your trek towards the Sembalun Crater Rim (2,639 meters). This final stretch is the most demanding of the day, with a steep ascent that will test your endurance. The trail is rocky and exposed, with little shade, so pace yourself and keep hydrated.
Evening:
- 5:00 PM: Arrive at the Sembalun Crater Rim, where you’ll set up camp for the night. The effort is rewarded with stunning views of the crater lake, Segara Anak, and the surrounding peaks. As the sun sets, the landscape takes on a magical glow, making it a perfect time for photography.
- 6:30 PM: Enjoy a hot dinner prepared by your trekking guides. As night falls, the temperature drops significantly, so make sure to bundle up in warm clothing. After dinner, relax by the campfire and share stories with fellow trekkers before retiring to your tent for the night.
Day 2: Summit Ascent and Descent to Senaru Village
Early Morning:
- 2:00 AM: Wake up early for a light breakfast and prepare for the summit attempt. The trek to the summit is the most challenging part of the journey, both mentally and physically. The path is steep, and the loose volcanic scree makes for difficult footing.
- 2:30 AM: Begin your ascent to the summit of Mount Rinjani (3,726 meters). The trek takes about 3-4 hours, and the cold, dark conditions add to the challenge. However, the sight of the stars above and the anticipation of reaching the top keep you motivated.
- 5:30 AM: Arrive at the summit just in time for sunrise. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, with the island of Lombok spread out below you, and on clear days, you can even see Bali to the west and Sumbawa to the east. Spend some time at the summit, taking in the views and capturing the moment with photos.
Morning:
- 6:30 AM: Begin your descent back to the Sembalun Crater Rim. The descent is faster but still requires caution due to the loose gravel. The sun rises higher, casting light over the rugged landscape.
- 8:30 AM: Arrive back at the crater rim and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast. After resting and refueling, it’s time to pack up your camp and begin the descent towards Senaru.
Mid-Morning:
- 10:00 AM: Start your descent towards Senaru Village (601 meters). The route down is different from the ascent, taking you through lush tropical forests. The path is steep in sections, but the surrounding scenery is beautiful, with birdsong and the sound of waterfalls accompanying you along the way.
- 12:00 PM: Stop at Pos 3 Senaru (2,000 meters) for lunch. This is a good place to rest your legs and enjoy the cool shade of the forest.
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Continue your descent, passing through Pos 2 (1,500 meters) and Pos 1 (1,000 meters). The trail becomes less steep as you approach Senaru, and you’ll notice the landscape gradually changing from forest to cultivated fields and villages.
Late Afternoon:
- 4:00 PM: Arrive in Senaru Village, where your trek officially ends. Here, you can rest and enjoy a well-earned meal at a local restaurant. You’ll have time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey before heading back to your accommodation.
What to Expect and Tips for the Trek
- Physical Preparation: The Mount Rinjani trek is challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. Training beforehand, especially on steep inclines and uneven terrain, will help you enjoy the trek more.
- Altitude Sickness: While Rinjani isn’t as high as other mountains, altitude sickness can still be a concern. Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you feel symptoms like headaches or nausea, take a break and consult your guide.
- Weather Conditions: The weather on Rinjani can be unpredictable. It’s crucial to be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night and during the summit ascent. Rain can also occur, so bring waterproof gear.
- Essential Gear: Pack light but bring essentials like warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, a headlamp, trekking poles, and sturdy footwear. Your guide will provide most camping equipment, but make sure you have what you need to be comfortable.
- Guides and Porters: Hiring a local guide and porters is highly recommended. They are familiar with the terrain, can help with carrying gear, and will enhance your overall experience with their knowledge of the area.
The Mount Rinjani trek is more than just a hike; it’s an adventure that will test your limits and reward you with some of the most breathtaking views in Indonesia. With this Mount Rinjani 2 day trek, 1-night itinerary, you’ll experience the best that Rinjani has to offer, from the challenging summit ascent to the serene beauty of the crater lake. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer, this journey is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of Lombok.