For Joe and Alicia, seasoned travelers and the duo behind Miles Less Traveled, the thought of scaling a mountain was daunting. Yet, when their journey brought them to Lombok, Indonesia, they couldn’t resist the call of Mt. Rinjani. The towering volcano stood as both a challenge and a promise of breathtaking views, and their decision to embark on a Mt. Rinjani 2D/1N Summit Trek proved to be one of their most rewarding adventures.
The Decision to Take on Mt. Rinjani
Joe and Alicia were no strangers to physical activity—they’d been training for a half-marathon—but climbing Mt. Rinjani was a different beast. After extensive research, they decided to forgo the summit trek and instead aim for the crater rim at 2,641 meters. The two-day journey seemed like the perfect middle ground, offering both the physical challenge and the stunning vistas they craved.
To make their experience as seamless as possible, they sought out a trekking company that aligned with their values. After combing through reviews and prioritizing environmental responsibility, they found a group that promised to leave no waste behind while also offering a private guide and porters to carry supplies. Feeling prepared and slightly nervous, they set their sights on the crater rim.
Day 1: The Ascent to the Crater Rim
The trek began early in the village of Senaru, where Joe and Alicia met their guide and porters. The group set off through dense jungle, and the first stretch—marked by gentle inclines and shaded paths—offered a warm-up for the challenge ahead. The couple marveled at the humid, lush surroundings, but as they reached the first checkpoint, the steepness of the climb began to set in.
Each section of the trail brought new obstacles. Between Position 2 and 3, the humidity became oppressive, and the incline demanded increasing effort. By the time they reached Position 3B, the jungle gave way to sandy, rocky terrain. The sun was now unrelenting, and the air grew cooler as the altitude climbed. Joe and Alicia paused frequently to reapply sunscreen and catch their breath.
The final stretch to the crater rim was the most grueling. The trail turned into a steep, slippery slope of loose rocks. Joe found himself slipping more than once, while Alicia leaned heavily on her trekking poles to maintain balance. Their guide’s steady encouragement kept them moving, and after nearly seven hours, they reached the rim.
An Evening Above the Clouds
The view from the crater rim took Joe and Alicia’s breath away. The turquoise expanse of Lake Segara Anak lay nestled in the caldera, encircled by steep volcanic walls and crowned by the baby volcano rising from its depths. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, the couple was treated to an unforgettable scene: the golden glow of sunset illuminating Bali and the Gili Islands in the distance.
Their campsite was perched on the edge of the rim, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Despite their exhaustion, Joe and Alicia couldn’t resist snapping photos and marveling at their accomplishment. The porters prepared a hearty meal, including popcorn to snack on while they soaked in the scenery. As the temperature dropped, the couple layered on every piece of clothing they had and settled into their tent for a chilly night under the stars.
Day 2: The Descent
The next morning, Joe and Alicia woke to stiff muscles and the satisfaction of knowing the hardest part was behind them. The descent began at dawn, with the couple retracing their steps through the rocky terrain. While downhill trekking was less taxing on their lungs, it was hard on their knees. Alicia relied on her trekking poles to steady herself on the slippery sections, while Joe found the loose rocks a constant challenge.
As they descended into the jungle, the temperature rose, and the familiar humidity enveloped them. They paused at each checkpoint to hydrate and rest, grateful for the snacks provided by their porters. By the time they reached the trailhead, their legs were shaking, but their spirits were high.
Reflections on the Trek
Looking back, Joe and Alicia described the trek as both physically demanding and emotionally fulfilling. The Crater Rim Trek offered them a chance to push their limits and experience one of the most stunning landscapes they’d ever encountered. The moment they stood at the rim, gazing at Lake Segara Anak and the distant islands, made every step worthwhile.
The couple also gained a deeper appreciation for the porters and guides who made the trek possible. Carrying heavy loads and preparing fresh meals with ease, their team’s dedication was inspiring. Joe and Alicia made sure to tip generously, recognizing the immense effort that went into supporting their journey.
For those considering the trek, the duo offered a few tips: research trekking companies thoroughly, pack warm clothes for the rim’s chilly nights, and bring trekking poles to navigate the steep, rocky paths. Above all, they encouraged fellow travelers to embrace the challenge. As Joe put it, “The trek terrified us, but standing at the rim, it was all worth it.”
The trek to Mt. Rinjani’s crater rim became a defining moment in Joe and Alicia’s travels, reminding them of the rewards that come with stepping outside their comfort zone. For this adventurous couple, the volcano left a lasting impression—and a story they’ll be telling for years to come.
