For travelers and adventure seekers, Mt. Rinjani offers not just a climb but a life-changing experience. One such trekker, accompanied by a lively group of companions, shared their first day of climbing in an immersive vlog that captures the essence of the journey. Their detailed account combines the logistical challenges of reaching Lombok with the physical and emotional rollercoaster of hiking Mt. Rinjani. Here’s their story.
The Journey to Lombok: A Long Day of Travel
The trek began long before setting foot on the trail. Starting in Seminyak, Bali, the group faced an intricate itinerary involving cars, boats, and jeeps to reach their base camp in Senaru. Their pickup arrived on time, signaling the beginning of a long and taxing journey. From Seminyak, they drove two hours to Padangbai Port, navigating one-lane roads and heavy traffic that made the already lengthy ride feel even longer.
At Padangbai Port, they boarded a Wahana speedboat bound for Lombok. Despite the spacious seats and smooth onboarding process, the intense waves turned the ride into a rollercoaster experience. Even armed with motion sickness pills, the turbulent seas left them groggy and drained by the time they reached Bangsal Port in Lombok. The journey wasn’t over yet, as a jeep ride through winding mountain roads brought them to Senaru Village, their base for the night.
After nearly seven hours of travel, they finally arrived at their accommodation, a serene lodge surrounded by nature. Exhausted yet exhilarated, they prepared for the adventure ahead, fueled by a simple yet satisfying dinner of fried rice, noodles, and black pepper chicken.
The First Day of Climbing: From Base Camp to the Clouds
The next morning began early, with the group assembling for breakfast and a detailed briefing from Harry, their trekking company manager. Harry provided an overview of the trek, including safety measures, the route, and the schedule. Spirits were high as the group, a mix of travelers from Korea, Italy, and other countries, bonded over their shared excitement.
The hike began at 1,063 meters above sea level, and the first section was a steady climb through open grasslands. Cows grazed along the trail, a picturesque contrast to the steep ascent ahead. Although the incline was manageable at first, the heat and weight of their backpacks quickly made the trek challenging. Frequent breaks became a necessity, offering moments to catch their breath and take in the stunning views.
By the time they reached Position One, the realization of the trek’s difficulty began to sink in. The guides and porters, who carried supplies for the group’s two-night stay, moved with practiced ease. Meanwhile, the trekkers pushed through their fatigue, fueled by the breathtaking scenery.
Pos Two: A Welcome Break
Reaching Position Two, located at 1,505 meters, was a significant milestone. Here, the group paused for lunch, a meal prepared by their dedicated porters. Stir-fried vegetables, chicken, and tempeh were served alongside rice and a variety of sauces, providing the nourishment needed for the steep climb ahead.
Monkeys, ever-present on this part of the trail, added a playful element to the stop. They observed the trekkers with curiosity, occasionally darting closer in hopes of snagging leftovers. After a much-needed rest, the group prepared to tackle the most challenging section of the day.
The Final Push to the Crater Rim
The stretch from Pos Two to the crater rim tested their endurance like never before. The trail transformed into a relentless incline, with loose rocks and uneven terrain making every step a battle. The guides encouraged the group, reminding them to take it slow and rest as needed. Along the way, the trekkers were rewarded with increasingly dramatic views, as the clouds swirled around them and the valley stretched out below.
At long last, after nearly seven hours of hiking, the group arrived at the crater rim at 2,600 meters. The sight that greeted them was nothing short of magical. Tents were already set up, and the setting sun bathed the landscape in hues of orange and pink. Below them, the crater lake shimmered, framed by jagged peaks and drifting clouds.
Exhaustion turned to elation as they took in the view, snapping photos and marveling at the natural beauty surrounding them. The porters, ever efficient, prepared a hearty dinner of vegetable curry, eggs, and rice, which the group ate while sharing stories of the day’s trek.
A Night Above the Clouds
As night fell, the atmosphere shifted to one of quiet reflection. The group lay in their tents, gazing up at a sky filled with stars. For one of the trekkers, it was their first time camping, adding an extra layer of wonder to an already extraordinary experience. Despite their aching muscles, they couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such untouched beauty.
A Journey to Remember
The first day of their Mt. Rinjani trek was as much about the journey as the destination. From the logistical complexities of reaching Lombok to the physical demands of the climb, every moment was a test of resilience and a celebration of nature’s grandeur. For these travelers, the crater rim wasn’t just a resting point but a reminder of what humans can achieve when they embrace adventure.
Their story is a testament to the power of trekking Mt. Rinjani to push boundaries and create lasting memories. For anyone considering this journey, their experience serves as both inspiration and proof that the effort is well worth the reward.
To explore the complete Mt. Rinjani Summit hike, check out this guide that details the trek from start to summit.
