Hiking Mt. Rinjani isn’t just a journey; it’s a test of willpower, teamwork, and perseverance. For a diverse group of trekkers led by the experienced guides of Joe Trekking, the ascent was a mix of beauty, exhaustion, and sheer determination. From the lush jungle trails to the punishing climb to the crater rim, every step of their journey was packed with challenges and unforgettable moments.
Meet the Adventurers
The team consisted of Meg, a powerhouse hiker ready to tackle the trails; Ellen, an adventurous spirit hailing from Minnesota but living in Spain; Roberto, a Spaniard full of quiet grit; and their guide, Awee, whose expertise would be their compass on this trek. Each member brought their own dynamic energy, yet they shared a common goal: conquer the Crater Rim Trek of Mt. Rinjani.
A Steep Start
Their journey began with enthusiasm and anticipation, kicking off with a steep climb through lush jungle terrain. The path was well-maintained, though the relentless incline quickly made its presence felt. Meg, reflecting on the early stages, found the trail “steep but manageable,” while Ellen commented on the beauty of the jungle, admitting she underestimated how tough the trek would become.
A Well-Deserved Lunch
After hours of uphill climbing, the group reached Position Two, their lunch spot. Here, the porters—true unsung heroes of the trek—had already set up a makeshift kitchen and prepared a spread that could rival a restaurant meal. The group marveled at the array of dishes: fried vegetables, rice, tempeh, crackers, and sambal. The porters, many of whom hiked in flip-flops while carrying up to 25 kilograms, left the group in awe of their strength and endurance.
Into the Clouds
The trail transitioned from dense jungle to an open landscape as they climbed higher. At Position Three, the group found themselves trekking through the clouds, with visibility giving way to the dramatic vistas of Mt. Rinjani. The air grew cooler, the terrain rockier, and the realization of their goal became more tangible as the crater rim loomed closer.
Despite their fatigue, the sight of their campsite perched at the edge of the crater was a welcome relief. The porters had once again worked their magic, setting up tents and even a dining area that overlooked the breathtaking crater lake. Roberto, in his understated way, summed up the climb’s intensity with, “It was hard, but worth it.”
A Night of Rest and Reflection
As night fell, the team enjoyed a dinner of green curry while soaking in the surreal beauty of a volcanic sunset. From their vantage point, they could see Bali’s distant volcano framed by the setting sun. It was a moment of gratitude and awe, with Meg noting how “these volcano sunsets are unlike anything I’ve ever seen.”
Sleep came early, though it wasn’t easy for everyone. By 3:30 AM, the team was up and preparing for their next challenge: the climb to the second summit of Mt. Rinjani.
The Final Push
The second summit was not as high as Mt. Rinjani’s true peak but was still a daunting challenge. The trail was steep and loose, with every step feeling like a fight against gravity. The group’s guide, Awee, ensured their safety, while the team pushed through the physical and mental strain.
Meg and Ellen, unfortunately, had to turn back due to a minor injury, a testament to their wisdom in listening to their bodies. Roberto and the guide pressed on, reaching the second summit just as the sun began to rise. The view was breathtaking—a panorama of volcanic peaks and clouds that stretched to the horizon.
For Roberto, the summit was a triumph of endurance. “That was by far the most technical climb I’ve ever done,” he said, visibly drained but exhilarated.
A Treacherous Descent
The journey back down was just as challenging as the ascent. The loose terrain made every step precarious, and the team’s physical exhaustion added to the difficulty. Roberto and Meg humorously commented on their repeated falls, noting how even the porters—still in flip-flops—made the descent look effortless.
A well-deserved lunch break offered a brief respite before the final stretch of their hike. The group endured a rain-soaked finish, arriving back at the trailhead battered but victorious.
Reflection and Gratitude
At the end of the trek, the group couldn’t help but express their appreciation for the Joe Trekking team. From the expertly prepared meals to the tireless efforts of the porters and guides, every detail of the trip was handled with care and professionalism.
“This was the most challenging hike I’ve ever done, but it was worth every step,” said Ellen. “The views, the teamwork, and the support from the Joe Trekking team made it unforgettable.”
The Call of the Mountain
Though the climb tested them to their limits, the team left Mt. Rinjani with a sense of accomplishment and a newfound respect for the power of nature. The memories of breathtaking vistas, the camaraderie shared on the trail, and the triumph of reaching the summit will undoubtedly linger as one of the most meaningful adventures of their lives.
For those considering trekking Mt. Rinjani, the team’s advice is simple: “Be prepared, trust your guides, and embrace the challenge. The mountain will reward you in ways you can’t imagine.
For a detailed guide to the Crater Rim Trek, this resource offers tips for planning your Mt. Rinjani adventure.
Links
www.youtube.com/@thetravelcoaches
www.ourbigjourney.com/mount-rinjani-second-summit
