Mount Rinjani stands tall at 3,726 meters (12,224 feet), and conquering this formidable mountain is no easy feat. However, the breathtaking panorama from the summit is worth every step.
The distances for climbing Mount Rinjani are relatively short each day, which leads hikers to regularly underestimate the difficulty level. It’s essential to emphasize the challenging terrain and steep ascents encountered along the way. Despite the shorter distances, the altitude gain can be demanding, requiring proper preparation and pacing to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
All images below are from our founder James’ epic Indonesian Honeymoon!
The best season for climbing is April through December. Mt Rinjani National Park closes from 15th of January to March due to heavy rains during the monsoon season.
Mt. Rinjani is safe to ascend. It is not a technical mountain, and you can easily navigate through the well-established paths. While some steep sections require caution, there’s no need for rope assistance. Mt. Rinjani is an active volcano and is very well monitored – if agencies detect any signs of increased volcanic activity that may result in an eruption, they will take the precautionary measure of closing the National Park.
We always recommend having travel insurance for any trip you go on. As you will be trekking, we highly recommend double-checking with your provider to ensure that this activity is covered.
During your trip, you’ll have the convenience of an English-speaking guide and a private vehicle at your disposal. Plus, you’ll have everything you need as our amazing local partners also provide mineral water, entrance fees, all your meals and camping equipment.
Day 1: After your early morning pick up (at 5am) you will transfer to the trek starting point at Senaru Village (600 metres) which is approximately 2 hours drive from the Senggigi beach area. Here, you will meet your mountain guide and porters for an orientation briefing and registration formalities.
Begin the trek, walking through a thick tropical forest rich in flora, birdlife and many varieties of butterflies. There is plenty of time to walk at a leisurely pace and enjoy the landscape before arriving at the Post 2 Montong Satas shelter (at 1500 metres) for lunch.
The next stage of the hike is to Post 3 Mondokon Lolak (2,000 metres), which will take around 2 hours. After a stop for refreshments continue on the final leg of today’s trek through grassy meadows to Plawangan 1 Senaru (Senaru Crater Rim) situated at 2,641 metres. You will arrive here around 5 pm and be rewarded with magnificent views across Segara Anak Lake to the summit of Mount Rinjani and the crater cone of Gunung Barujari (2,351 metres), an active volcano.
On a clear evening, you may also be able to see the Gili islands and Bali’s Mount Agung to the west. Tents will be ready waiting for you, and dinner is served at the campsite.
Day 2: Sunrise across Mount Rinjani’s crater will be a memorable start to your day and is well worth the early wakeup! After breakfast, begin the descent of the trail back to Senaru village, first through grassland and then back into the shade of the tropical forest. Lunch will be served en route and about seven hours after leaving the crater you will be back at the trek starting point. Your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel.
This is an example of our last guided trip which was completed in 2 days and 1 night, however, if you have more time in the area you can also spread the hike out a little and do it in 3 days and 2 nights.
It is recommended that the below should be carried in a small backpack, weighing no more than 5 Kilos:
Ensure to bring appropriate clothing to stay warm, especially considering that the summit is situated at an elevation of 3,726 meters above sea level. The base camp for overnight stays is around 2,000 meters above sea level.
– 1 pair of trekking/hiking boots
– Toiletries & personal medications: suncream, cap, sunglasses, insect repellent
– Small towel
– 2-4 quick-drying t-shirts
– Long trek trousers, water/windproof jacket, warm jacket, beanie
– 2 pairs of shorts
– Small headlamp with spare batteries (only if you are going to the summit)
– Trekking poles (optional, these can be rented locally – your knees will thank you)
– Sandals (optional)
– Swimming suit (optional)
– Camera, drones etc
– Binoculars
– Plastic bags for any rubbish – leave no trace!
Tents are provided with everything you need for a good, cosy night’s sleep, and dinner is served at the campsite. Sit back, relax and enjoy the stars.
Budget a little extra tip for porters and guides at Mount Rinjani. Tipping is at your discretion, however, once you see how hard your porters and guides work, you will be happy to leave them a small tip! A minimum tip of IDR 100,000 per guide/porter from each hiker is recommended.
Whether you seek the thrill of conquering a towering peak or crave a soul-stirring connection with nature, hiking Mount Rinjani promises the experience of a lifetime. Speak to one of our amazing nemo travel experts and see how you can squeeze Mt Rinjani into your Indonesia itinerary – for more Indonesia inspiration, why not take a peek at one of our amazing full trip itineraries here?
This island-hopping trip artfully weaves together some of our favourite islands with an epic hike in the middle. Perfect for those couples who want some adventure, but plenty of chill too.
12 nights
