Roberto and Ellen, the dynamic duo behind Our Big Journey, had always sought thrilling escapades, and their latest adventure on Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Indonesia, was no exception. Opting for the 2D/1N trek to the Second Summit of Rinjani, also known as Mount Sangkareang, they were ready to face its challenges, hoping for the breathtaking rewards that lay ahead.
A New Route and a Tough Decision
The couple was no stranger to hiking but knew that Rinjani’s steep inclines would push them to their limits. After poring over options, they chose the Second Summit route, which had only recently opened in 2022. At 3,126 meters, this trek was more demanding than the Crater Rim Trek yet less grueling than the full summit climb. The allure of being among the first adventurers to document this new trail made the decision even more enticing.
Accompanied by their friends Meg and Ian, they set off with high spirits, eager to tackle the journey that lay ahead.
Day 1: The Ascent to the Crater Rim
The morning began with a hearty breakfast at a quaint villa in Senaru. Their guide, Awe, and a team of four porters met them at the gate to Rinjani National Park, where they officially began the trek. The first stretch to Position 1 was relatively easy, a humid, jungle-lined path that eased them into the hike.
Between Positions 2 and 3, the terrain grew steeper and more challenging. Loose rocks and tangled roots tested their balance, but the group pressed on, motivated by the promise of spectacular views. By midday, they reached a resting point near Position 3, where the porters prepared a surprisingly gourmet lunch. The scene was lively with playful monkeys darting through the trees, adding a touch of amusement to the hikers’ brief respite.
As they ascended toward the Crater Rim, the environment changed dramatically. The dense jungle gave way to an open savanna, where the air grew thinner and cooler. The last stretch was the most grueling. The loose, sandy trail was a test of endurance, and every step required immense effort. By the time they reached the rim, exhaustion was etched on their faces—but so was awe.
Camping Above the Clouds
The Crater Rim revealed a view unlike any they had ever seen. The expansive Lake Segara Anak sat cradled within the volcano, its shimmering surface reflecting the surrounding peaks. Beyond the crater, the main summit of Mount Rinjani towered imposingly, a stark reminder of the mountain’s scale.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded into hues of orange and pink, casting a surreal glow over the landscape. The group was treated to a warm meal and even popcorn, courtesy of their porters, who had set up camp at a prime spot overlooking the crater.
Bundled in layers to combat the dropping temperatures, Roberto and Ellen marveled at the star-studded sky before retreating to their tents for an early rest.
Day 2: The Night Hike to Mount Sangkareang
The alarm buzzed at 3:30 AM. The group groggily emerged from their tents, fueled by a quick snack and the anticipation of reaching the Second Summit before sunrise. Armed with headlamps, they began the steep climb in total darkness. The trail was unmarked, and their guide had never traversed it before, adding a layer of uncertainty to the already demanding hike.
Halfway up, disaster struck. Ellen misstepped into a hidden hole and twisted her ankle. Despite the pain, she initially insisted on continuing but soon realized the injury was too severe. Meg volunteered to accompany her back to camp, leaving Roberto and Ian to push on with Awe.
Reaching the Second Summit
The path to Mount Sangkareang was relentless. The incline steepened, and loose rocks threatened to send them sliding backward. But as they approached the summit, the horizon began to glow. The first rays of sunlight illuminated the landscape, revealing the silhouettes of distant peaks and the vast ocean beyond.
Finally, they reached the summit. Standing at 3,126 meters, Roberto and Ian were greeted by a wooden marker and a sunrise that seemed to set the world ablaze. From this vantage point, they could see Mount Rinjani’s main summit and the sprawling vistas of Lombok and beyond. The moment was a triumph, a reward for their perseverance and grit.
The Descent
The descent was both a relief and a challenge. With daylight now illuminating the path, the group moved more confidently but carefully, aware of the loose rocks and steep drops. By the time Roberto and Ian returned to the camp, Ellen and Meg were waiting with smiles, their spirits lifted despite Ellen’s injury.
The final stretch back to Senaru was long and arduous. The jungle provided shade from the midday sun, but fatigue weighed heavily on their legs. When they finally arrived at the trailhead, rain began to fall, drenching them in the last moments of their adventure. Despite their exhaustion, they shared a sense of accomplishment that would linger long after they left Lombok.
Reflections on an Epic Adventure
For Roberto and Ellen, the Rinjani Second Summit Trek was a journey of discovery, resilience, and awe. The ever-changing landscapes, from dense jungle to savanna to rocky peaks, made every step worthwhile. The experience deepened their appreciation for the porters and guides who made the trek possible and highlighted the importance of preparation and teamwork.
“This trek tested us in ways we didn’t expect,” Roberto reflected. “But the views, the camaraderie, and the sense of achievement were unmatched. It’s a memory we’ll carry with us forever.”
Their adventure to the Second Summit of Mount Rinjani is a testament to the rewards of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. For those seeking a challenge and the beauty of Lombok’s most iconic peak, this trek offers an experience unlike any other.
