Simon and Lisa, intrepid travelers with a love for exploration, embarked on one of their most ambitious treks yet: climbing Mt. Rinjani. The towering 3,726-meter peak on Lombok Island promised not only physical challenges but also some of the most breathtaking scenery they had ever encountered. Their vlog captures every detail of their journey, blending awe-inspiring views with candid moments that paint a vivid picture of life on the trail.
A Sunrise Start
The day began at dawn, with the sunrise casting a golden glow over the ocean and mountains. The weather was unexpectedly perfect for the rainy season, with clear skies that allowed Mt. Rinjani’s imposing silhouette to stand out in sharp detail. Simon marveled at the timing, as the national park had opened two weeks earlier than usual, giving them a rare window to start their trek.
After a simple breakfast, their guide, Adi, arrived to lead the way. The couple piled into the back of a pickup truck, a common mode of transport for trekkers on Lombok, and set off toward the mountain. The ride was filled with excitement and laughter, with Adi predicting afternoon clouds but assuring them of a stunning day ahead.
Health Checks and the Start of the Trek
Before they could begin, Simon and Lisa underwent a quick health check at a local clinic. With blood pressure measured and cleared for the climb, they arrived at the trailhead where two porters waited. Carrying an impressive load of tents, sleeping bags, and supplies, the porters embodied the quiet strength and expertise that would make the trek possible.
The first stretch of the trail offered stunning views and a chance for Simon to reflect on the journey ahead. Lisa, carrying their backpack, was already acclimating to the steady incline. Their goal was to reach the crater rim by nightfall, with a daunting 1,139 meters of altitude to gain before sunset.
Breaks, Monkeys, and Lunch
The trail wound through changing landscapes, from shaded jungles to open ridges. At one point, Simon marveled at the tree line’s end, where the sunny slopes began. Adi, their ever-knowledgeable guide, warned of rain later in the day, but for now, the sun beamed down, adding to the already challenging hike.
The group took a well-deserved break at Position Two, where their porters prepared lunch. The sight of fresh vegetables, chicken, and steaming rice cooked on portable stoves was a welcome reward. Simon admired the porters’ skill and even joked about their creative carrot garnishes. Meanwhile, curious monkeys hovered nearby, waiting for leftovers, adding a playful dynamic to the stop.
The Final Push to the Crater Rim
As they continued, the trail grew steeper and more demanding. Simon, navigating the trickiest sections with the help of ropes, admitted to feeling the altitude. At 2,500 meters, the air was thinner, and every step became more taxing. But the rewards were immediate. Clouds rolled in and out, revealing fleeting glimpses of the breathtaking landscapes below. Simon couldn’t help but marvel at the weather, which was cool and overcast—ideal for such a strenuous climb.
Finally, as the sky began to change hues with the setting sun, they reached the crater rim. Simon and Lisa were awestruck by the scene before them. Although the clouds obscured some of the views, the mystical atmosphere created by the shifting light made the effort worthwhile. Their porters set up camp, complete with a luxurious tent outfitted with soft sleeping mats and pillows—a surprising comfort in such a remote setting.
A Night Under the Stars
As night fell, the couple enjoyed a hot meal of vegetable curry and rice, prepared by their porters. They learned more about their team, including Rahman, a 20-year-old porter who had been working on the mountain since the age of 15. Simon expressed deep admiration for the porters’ strength and resilience, acknowledging how vital they were to the trekking experience.
Though the clouds obscured the Milky Way, the anticipation of the summit climb kept the excitement alive. With a wake-up time of 2:30 a.m. looming, Simon and Lisa retired early, bracing themselves for the most challenging part of their adventure.
Reflections on Day One
Simon and Lisa’s first day on Mt. Rinjani was a blend of physical exertion, natural beauty, and quiet moments of connection. For Lisa, it was her first night ever camping, making the experience all the more special. As they drifted off to sleep under the cool mountain air, they knew the summit awaited—a test of endurance that would cap an already unforgettable journey.
This adventure highlighted not only the physical challenges of trekking Mt. Rinjani but also the camaraderie and support that made it possible. From the guides and porters to the stunning views and the thrill of pushing personal limits, Simon and Lisa’s journey stands as a testament to the magic of Mt. Rinjani. For those who dream of hiking Mt. Rinjani, their story is both an inspiration and a guide to the incredible experiences that await on Lombok’s majestic volcano.
