For Jipp, a seasoned adventurer with a bucket list full of peaks and challenges, Mt. Rinjani had always held a special allure. As one of the most picturesque volcanoes in the world, the mountain’s reputation for breathtaking views and grueling treks made it a must-conquer. When Lombok International Airport made access easier, Jipp seized the chance to tackle the legendary summit. What followed was a journey that tested physical endurance, demanded mental fortitude, and delivered humbling lessons in nature’s unpredictable power.
Arrival in Senaru: The Unexpected Charm
Touching down at Lombok International Airport after an early flight from Kuala Lumpur, Jipp was greeted by his climbing partner, Rao, who had arrived a day earlier. The duo hopped into a taxi for the three-hour journey to Senaru, a village nestled at the base of Mt. Rinjani. Jipp had envisioned Senaru as a bustling hub for trekkers, with gear shops, ATMs, and money changers on every corner. Instead, they found a tranquil farming village, a stark yet delightful contrast to his expectations.
The terraced paddy fields and cool mountain air captivated Jipp, who quickly realized why Senaru was a popular stop for adventurers. While time constraints prevented them from exploring the area’s famed waterfalls, the scenic beauty alone made the visit worthwhile. After checking into a modest guesthouse and using their remaining rupiah to secure a room, Jipp and Rao set out to find a trekking company that fit their budget.
Preparation and a Dose of Reality
Securing a package for the 3D/2N Summit and Lake Trek wasn’t cheap, but Jipp couldn’t deny the excitement as the adventure began to feel real. The following morning, with Mt. Rinjani in full view as if challenging them to reconsider, the duo set off for Sembalun. Here, the journey truly began.
Sembalun, a farming village on the opposite side of the mountain, serves as the typical starting point for trekkers aiming to reach Rinjani’s summit. For Jipp, the landscape of vast plains and lush grasslands brought to mind scenes from The Hobbit. The grandeur of the mountain ahead, combined with the simplicity of the village, felt like stepping into a storybook.
Day One: Into the Wilderness
The trek began with a sense of wonder. The lush plains and golden grasslands of the national park painted a vivid backdrop as the group entered the trailhead. The path gradually steepened, and by the time they reached the second rest stop, a sudden downpour transformed the trail into a slippery challenge. Jipp, ever the resourceful adventurer, whipped out an umbrella—a unique solution that earned him curious glances but kept him dry.
As the rain persisted, the ascent to the crater rim became treacherous. Jipp’s camera, ever ready around his neck, added an extra layer of worry as he navigated the slick trail. Despite the obstacles, he reached the crater rim by dusk, greeted by thick mist that obscured the famed views of Segara Anak Lake. As night fell and temperatures plummeted, Jipp’s enthusiasm dimmed when the porters revealed that their sleeping bags had been soaked. It was only thanks to their guide’s generosity, lending his own sleeping bag, that they managed a somewhat comfortable night.
Summit Attack: A Test of Will
At 2 a.m., Jipp was jolted awake for the summit push. A light drizzle and the guide’s hesitation gave the group pause, but Jipp’s determination won out. “Weather on the mountain changes in an instant,” he thought, and within 30 minutes, they were joining a line of trekkers heading toward the peak.
What followed was a grueling ascent unlike any Jipp had experienced. Loose volcanic soil turned every step into a battle, with his sandals—trusty companions on many previous treks—betraying him. Slipping backward with each step forward, Jipp found himself questioning his fitness and resolve for the first time. Rao, sensing Jipp’s struggle, pushed himself harder, determined to inspire his friend to keep moving.
The final stretch was an unrelenting climb up an exposed ridge, every step demanding more energy than Jipp thought he had. Yet, his mantra—”One step at a time, and you’ll eventually have no more to climb”—kept him going. And then, after hours of torment, the summit materialized. The view from the top was everything he’d imagined: the emerald lake below, the jagged caldera, and neighboring islands in the distance, all bathed in the soft light of dawn.
The Descent: A Lesson in Humility
The trek back to the campsite was smoother, with daylight illuminating the trail and allowing Jipp to embrace the thrill of sliding down the loose soil. But any sense of relief was short-lived. The guide announced that the day’s journey was far from over—they would descend to the lake for lunch and climb back up to the opposite crater rim to set up camp for the night. Jipp’s muscles ached at the mere thought.
The descent to the lake was arduous, but reaching its tranquil shores offered a brief reprieve. The climb back up, however, proved even more challenging than the morning’s summit attempt. Steep, unrelenting switchbacks tested Jipp’s limits, but the camaraderie of fellow trekkers and the breathtaking views provided just enough motivation to push through.
Reflections on Rinjani
By the end of the trek, Jipp was physically drained but emotionally fulfilled. Mt. Rinjani had humbled him, showing him the value of perseverance and the power of nature’s beauty. As he looked back on the journey, he marveled at the mountain’s ability to inspire awe and respect in equal measure.
While Jipp may not have anticipated the challenges, the experience left an indelible mark on him. The mountain, with its fiery spirit and serene vistas, had offered him more than just a trek—it had given him a story worth telling.
