The traveler known as the “Time Travel Bee,” a devoted advocate for eco-conscious exploration, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Mt. Rinjani, one of Indonesia’s most revered volcanic peaks. Known for her passion for slow travel and cultural immersion, this hiker’s story was a tale of endurance, awe, and reflection, woven together with the threads of responsible travel.
A Challenging Ascent
Choosing the 2D/1N Summit Trek, the adventurer began her journey from the village of Senaru, opting for a package that included a guide and two porters. The hike commenced early in the morning, and the first leg of the trail offered a deceptive ease, winding through lush greenery with a gentle gradient. The traveler remarked on the efficient organization of her team, who prepared meals on-the-go during breaks.
As the trail steepened, however, the true nature of Mt. Rinjani began to reveal itself. Volcanic rocks made the path slippery and unpredictable, demanding both physical strength and mental resolve. The final stretch was particularly grueling, with the incline turning sharply upward. Despite the exhaustion, she pushed forward, motivated by the promise of unparalleled views.
By late afternoon, she reached the crater rim, a destination that felt like a gateway to another world. The turquoise lake nestled within the crater, framed by rugged volcanic walls, greeted her with its ethereal beauty. Although she missed the sunset due to the timing of her arrival, the sight of the lake bathed in the soft hues of twilight made the effort worthwhile.
A Morning of Majesty
The next morning brought a moment of pure transcendence. As the first rays of sunlight kissed the crater lake, the scene transformed into a symphony of colors. Blues deepened, greens glowed, and the shadows of the mountains painted patterns on the water’s surface. Standing there, enveloped by the sheer scale of the volcanic landscape, the traveler felt both small and profoundly connected to the Earth’s raw power.
Her morning reverie lasted an hour as she soaked in the serene atmosphere, the world around her shifting with the changing light. It was a moment of reflection—a reminder of nature’s beauty and the responsibility to protect it.
The Journey Back
Descending Mt. Rinjani was quicker but no less demanding. The steep, loose terrain required cautious navigation, and the exhaustion from the previous day’s climb added to the challenge. By early afternoon, she reached Senaru, physically spent but spiritually invigorated. The trek, though taxing, left her with a profound sense of accomplishment and a renewed appreciation for the natural world.
The Eco Dilemma
Throughout her trek, the traveler couldn’t ignore the environmental toll of mass tourism. She observed trails littered with plastic and the pervasive smell of composting organic waste. Even the self-proclaimed “eco-friendly” tour operators fell short of true sustainability, merely collecting trash rather than leaving it behind. While this minimal effort was a step forward, it highlighted the stark gap between aspiration and action in environmental stewardship.
Determined to inspire change, the Time Travel Bee engaged in thoughtful conversations with her guides, suggesting ways to improve practices. She left with the belief that even small steps toward eco-tourism could ripple into greater awareness and better habits over time.
A Journey Worth Sharing
For this passionate advocate of responsible travel, trekking Mt. Rinjani was more than an adventure—it was a lesson in perseverance, an immersion in nature’s grandeur, and a call to protect what is sacred. Her blog captured not just the physical challenges but also the emotional and ethical dimensions of her journey, serving as a beacon for others who wish to experience Mt. Rinjani responsibly.
Her parting words encapsulated the essence of her trek: “Every step, every struggle, and every sunrise on Mt. Rinjani is a reminder of the beauty we must strive to protect. It’s not just about reaching the summit—it’s about leaving the mountain better than we found it.”
