When Benoit, a self-taught web developer and passionate photographer, set his sights on Mount Rinjani, he wasn’t just chasing the thrill of adventure. As someone who thrives on new challenges and the freedom of the outdoors, trekking Mt. Rinjani became a deeply personal journey—a test of endurance, a celebration of nature, and an unforgettable experience on Indonesia’s second-highest volcano.
After a restful week on the beaches of southern Lombok, Benoit felt the urge to trade the gentle rhythm of the waves for the rugged terrain of Mt. Rinjani. With its majestic summit at 3,726 meters and breathtaking views of Segara Anak Lake nestled within its crater, the volcano offered everything a thrill-seeking hiker could dream of. He opted for the 3D/2N Summit and Lake Trek, a demanding route starting in Senaru, climbing to the crater rim, descending into the caldera, and finally summiting before descending to Sembalun.
A Chaotic Beginning
Benoit’s trek began with a series of missteps. Departing early from Gili Air, he found himself caught in a whirlwind of miscommunications, delays, and an unplanned late arrival in Senaru. By the time he reached the trailhead at 11 a.m., his group had already departed hours earlier. A quick noodle soup later, he was paired with a guide and tasked with catching up—at a near-running pace.
The challenge escalated quickly as Benoit pushed himself to keep up with his guide, who, despite wearing only flip-flops, maintained a blistering pace. The trek, already demanding under normal circumstances, became a race against time. Two hours later, he finally spotted one of the porters from his group in the distance.
The Porters’ Unbelievable Strength
Meeting the porter was a humbling experience. Benoit marveled at the man, who, despite his diminutive stature and a noticeable limp, carried a load exceeding 30 kilograms. Curious and eager to share the burden, Benoit offered to carry the porter’s load—a mistake he quickly regretted. Balancing the weight proved to be nearly impossible, and Benoit gained a newfound respect for the incredible strength and resilience of the porters who make such treks possible.
Reaching Senaru Rim
By late afternoon, Benoit rejoined his group—a lively contingent of Spanish friends based in Jakarta—and pressed onward to the crater rim. The reward for his grueling effort was a panoramic view of Segara Anak Lake and the imposing summit of Mt. Rinjani, illuminated by the golden hues of the setting sun. That evening, under a sky studded with stars, the team shared a hearty meal of nasi goreng prepared by their guide and porters. Exhausted, Benoit fell asleep early, preparing for the next day’s descent into the crater.
Descending to the Lake
Day two began with a breathtaking sunrise that painted the crater in soft, warm light. After a breakfast of fried bananas and toast, the group embarked on a steep and slippery descent toward Segara Anak Lake. The path, though treacherous, rewarded them with awe-inspiring views. At the lake, the hikers rested, some soaking in the hot springs while others braved the chilly crater waters.
The climb out of the crater proved equally challenging. Benoit teamed up with the injured porter, alternating the load between them to ease the man’s burden. The steep ascent required frequent breaks, and by the time they reached Sembalun Rim, exhaustion was etched on every face. But as the group settled into camp, they were treated to a spectacular sunset—a tranquil moment before the summit push that loomed ahead.
The Summit Push
At 2 a.m. on the final day, Benoit awoke to coffee, cookies, and freezing temperatures. Bundled in every warm layer he had, he joined his group for the summit ascent. Guided by the faint glow of headlamps, they trudged single-file up the volcano’s volcanic gravel. The steep, slippery trail tested every ounce of their resolve, but the reward was worth it.
By sunrise, Benoit stood at the summit of Mt. Rinjani, surrounded by views that spanned Bali, Flores, and Sumbawa. The crater lake shimmered far below, and the sunrise cast a fiery glow across the landscape. The biting wind and frigid temperatures couldn’t dim the sense of achievement that washed over him.
The Long Descent
The descent from the summit was a mix of exhilaration and caution. Sliding down loose gravel felt more like skiing than hiking, and Benoit’s trekking poles proved invaluable. Upon returning to camp, he was greeted with a banana pancake—a modest yet deeply satisfying reward after the grueling trek.
The final leg of the journey, a five-hour descent to Sembalun, tested everyone’s stamina. Tired legs and sore muscles made every step feel heavier. Despite the fatigue, Benoit felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude—for the camaraderie of his fellow trekkers, the unyielding dedication of the porters, and the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Rinjani.
Reflections on an Unforgettable Adventure
As Benoit boarded a ferry to reunite with his partner Fabienne on the Gili Islands, he couldn’t help but reflect on the transformative nature of his trek. The 3D/2N Summit and Lake Trek had pushed him to his physical and mental limits, rewarding him with experiences and vistas that would forever be etched in his memory. For Benoit, trekking Mt. Rinjani wasn’t just a hike—it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound beauty of the natural world.
Would he recommend the trek? Absolutely. But with a cautionary note: come prepared, respect the porters, and be ready to confront your limits
