In their ambitious quest to conquer the trails of Mt. Rinjani, this hiker brought not only grit but an authentic and humorous perspective to an extraordinary adventure. From the moment they stepped off the plane at Lombok’s tranquil airport to the triumphant end at base camp, the journey was filled with challenges, camaraderie, and moments of awe-inspiring beauty.
A Modest Start in Lombok
The story began with the warm and sleepy atmosphere of Lombok. Unlike bustling Bali, Lombok offered a quieter charm, perfect for setting the stage for an unforgettable trek. After a hearty meal featuring Lombok’s signature spicy flavors, the group traveled for two hours to the small village of Sembalun, where a cozy guesthouse awaited. This was the calm before the storm, with the team preparing for the next day’s early start.
The Climb Begins: Pos 2 and Beyond
The journey to Pos 2 introduced the first real test. The group decided to hire motorbikes for the initial stretch, a decision that saved hours of walking under the blazing sun. The steep trails to Pos 2, marked by rocky paths and thick dust, hinted at the challenges ahead. After a brief rest, they continued toward Pos 3, passing warungs offering snacks and drinks. The presence of these small shops provided much-needed refreshment and a sense of connection to the local community.
Pos 3 brought an unexpected twist as the group had to camp at an overflow area due to overcrowding. The camaraderie of fellow trekkers was evident as everyone shared stories over simple meals, creating a warm sense of fellowship despite the remote setting.
Facing the Elements at Pelawangan
Reaching Pelawangan Crater Rim was a defining moment. The dense fog rolling in created an almost mystical atmosphere, muting the searing heat of the earlier trails. From the rim, the stunning view of the Segara Anak Lake came into sight, a reward for hours of effort. As night fell, the group huddled together, bracing themselves for the summit trek scheduled to begin at 1 a.m.
The Summit Trek: A True Test of Willpower
The summit attack began in complete darkness, with only headlamps to light the way. The loose volcanic sand and gravel made each step treacherous, forcing the hikers into a relentless rhythm of sliding back and pushing forward. At an elevation of 3000 meters, the thin air added to the challenge. The guide emphasized safety, urging the group to rest briefly against boulders for stability during breaks.
As the first rays of sunlight illuminated the path, the summit of Mt. Rinjani emerged. The panoramic views from the top were breathtaking, making every grueling step worthwhile. The team celebrated their triumph, snapping photos and soaking in the surreal beauty of Lombok spread out below them.
Descending to Segara Anak Lake
The descent to Segara Anak Lake was another challenge altogether. Steep trails and loose rocks tested their endurance, but the promise of the lake and its nearby hot springs kept them motivated. Upon arrival, they reveled in the soothing waters, which felt like a small luxury after the relentless climb. The lake’s calm mirrored their sense of accomplishment and offered a chance to reflect on the journey so far.
The Torean Route: A Scenic Finale
The final leg of the trek took them along the Torean route, famous for its dramatic cliffs and verdant valleys. The group passed cascading waterfalls and the aptly named “River of Souls,” where the milky blue water added a surreal quality to the landscape. Despite fatigue, the beauty of this route invigorated their spirits, making the long descent a bittersweet farewell to the mountain.
A Journey to Remember
Returning to base camp brought a mix of relief and nostalgia. The trek was over, but the memories would linger. The group reflected on the highs and lows, from the intense physical demands of climbing Mt. Rinjani to the camaraderie of shared meals and the awe of Segara Anak Lake. They noted that while the trek was grueling, it was a transformative experience that tested their limits and rewarded them with unforgettable moments.
For this hiker, the trek up Mt. Rinjani was not just about reaching the summit but about the journey itself. It was about embracing the pain, finding joy in the small victories, and discovering a deeper connection to the natural world. The experience reaffirmed that hiking Mt. Rinjani is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to push their boundaries, it is a journey like no other.
