For years, this climber had called the island of Lombok home, gazing at the towering presence of Mt. Rinjani. Life, however, had a way of delaying plans. Earthquakes, floods, and the busyness of everyday life meant the dream of standing atop Indonesia’s second-highest volcano was always pushed aside. But when their best friend Zoe came to visit and a birthday loomed on the horizon, the timing felt perfect. With another friend, Kat, joining the group, the plan was set: they would attempt the Mt. Rinjani 2D/1N Summit Trek.
Day 1: A Journey Begins
The trio kicked off their adventure with a taxi ride from Kuta to Senaru, opting for a private car instead of the shuttle. The drive, spanning two to three hours, flew by as the group soaked in the captivating landscapes of Lombok. They had booked their trek through a tour company that offered a homestay the night before the climb, transportation, guides, porters, and meals.
Before settling in for the evening, the group explored the nearby Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. The falls were breathtaking, cascading into clear pools. Opting to explore on their own saved them from unnecessary tour fees, and they delighted in the ease of access from their homestay. Flip-flops were a practical choice, as some paths required walking through water.
That evening, the climbers attended a briefing, rented essential gear like hiking boots, a windproof jacket, and trekking poles, and stocked up on hydration sachets and snacks. They laughed about their mismatched rentals but were grateful for the extra warmth and equipment.
Day 2: The Ascent to Base Camp
The second day began early with breakfast and a medical checkup to ensure the group was ready for the climb. With adrenaline running high, they set off toward Mt. Rinjani, the path gradually climbing through lush greenery.
The seven-hour hike to the crater base camp was challenging but filled with breathtaking views. On one side, clouds rolled over the ridges; on the other, the shimmering lake cradled the baby volcano, Mount Barujari.
The porters left a lasting impression, carrying heavy loads of food, water, and camping gear with an ease that defied their flip-flop-clad feet. Their strength and cheerful demeanor uplifted the climbers’ spirits as they trudged up the steep paths. By the time they reached the base camp, the group was ready to collapse but couldn’t resist watching the sunset over the crater.
As darkness fell, the climbers huddled in their tents, donning every layer they had to combat the chill. Despite the exhaustion, sleep proved elusive due to the noisy activity outside their tent.
Day 3: The Summit Push
At 2 a.m., the climbers emerged from their tents, bundled against the cold and armed with snacks and coffee. The trail ahead was a sea of lights as headlamps from other climbers dotted the dark path.
The three-hour climb to the summit was the most grueling part of the journey. The volcanic sand made every step feel like two steps back. As the incline steepened, doubts crept in, but determination pushed them forward. The promise of sunrise at the summit kept them going.
Finally, they reached the summit just as the first rays of dawn lit up the horizon. It was freezing, but the view was worth every struggle. Looking out over the island and the crater, the climbers felt a profound sense of accomplishment. They posed for photos with the summit sign, savoring the moment before beginning their descent.
The Long Descent
The descent to base camp, though faster, brought its own challenges. Sliding down the sandy slopes felt like skiing but demanded careful navigation to avoid slips and falls. The stunning views of the crater lake and Mount Barujari offered welcome distractions from the fatigue.
Back at base camp, the climbers took a much-needed break, reflecting on their summit triumph before beginning the trek back to the starting point. The descent was slippery, and their tired legs struggled to keep pace. Despite the physical toll, they felt a sense of camaraderie and gratitude for their guides and porters.
Final Reflections
The climbers ended their journey back in Kuta, tired but exhilarated. They tipped their guides and porters generously, recognizing the extraordinary effort that had gone into making their trek possible.
Looking back, the experience of climbing Mt. Rinjani was transformative. It had been harder than they imagined, especially the final summit push, but it was also more rewarding. The sense of achievement, the breathtaking views, and the bond they formed as a group made every step worthwhile.
For anyone considering hiking Mt. Rinjani, they offered simple advice: pack light but smart, stay hydrated, and take breaks when needed. The climb is tough, but with determination and preparation, it’s an adventure that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
As they unpacked back at home, they couldn’t help but smile, knowing they had conquered one of Lombok’s greatest challenges.
