For Tom, a full-time traveler and the creative mind behind Traveltomtom, the allure of climbing Mt. Rinjani was irresistible. Known for its stunning crater lake, lush greenery, and grueling trails, the towering peak in Lombok, Indonesia, promised to be one of the most challenging and rewarding adventures of his nomadic lifestyle.
The Start: From Beaches to the Slopes of Mt. Rinjani
Tom’s journey began on the laid-back island of Gili Trawangan, where days of sun, sea, and sand had lulled him into a tropical rhythm. But adventure called, and soon he was boarding a local boat to Lombok. A short drive later, he arrived at a cozy lodge nestled in the slopes of Mt. Rinjani, where the adventure truly began.
After a hearty dinner, Tom and his group received a briefing about the trek ahead. This was no ordinary hike—this was trekking Mt. Rinjani, an endeavor that demanded physical and mental fortitude. Equipped with borrowed long pants, gloves, a jacket, and a headlamp, Tom felt the excitement building despite the realization that his preparation had been minimal.
Day 1: Climbing to the Crater Rim
The trek kicked off in Sembalun, where Tom registered with park authorities and met his guide and porters. The morning began with a leisurely walk through open fields, giving the group a chance to enjoy the scenery and ease into the ascent. Chocolate bars from his guide fueled the way—not just a treat but a symbolic effort to lighten the load for the porters, who carried up to 40 kilograms of gear.
As the team gained altitude, the gentle slopes gave way to steep forest trails shrouded in mist. By mid-afternoon, they reached the crater rim, where the porters had already set up camp. The stunning views of the crater lake and surrounding peaks, bathed in the golden hues of sunset, provided the perfect reward for the day’s effort. That evening, as temperatures plummeted, Tom crawled into his tent, bracing himself for an early wake-up call.
Day 2: The Summit Push and Beyond
At 2:30 a.m., Tom was roused from sleep by a torchlight shining in his face. The summit awaited. Armed with determination and layers of warm clothing, he began the ascent in pitch darkness. The narrow trail, barely wide enough for one person, quickly became crowded with trekkers, their collective energy a source of motivation.
As the trail steepened, Tom faced the infamous loose volcanic sand that turned every step into a battle. The mantra became “three steps forward, one step back,” and the biting cold made every moment more grueling. Without gloves, his hands throbbed in the icy wind, a sharp reminder of the mountain’s unforgiving nature.
But perseverance paid off. Just after sunrise, Tom reached the summit. At 3,726 meters above sea level, he stood above the clouds, a sea of white stretching to the horizon. The view was surreal, the sense of accomplishment overwhelming. Holding the “Puncak Rinjani” sign, he couldn’t help but grin, knowing he had conquered one of Indonesia’s most challenging peaks.
The Descent to the Crater Lake
Descending the summit was a stark contrast to the ascent. The loose sand turned the trail into a playground for “volcano skating,” a mix of sliding and controlled falls that was both exhilarating and exhausting. Back at the crater rim, Tom refueled with breakfast before embarking on the next leg: a steep descent to the crater lake.
The lake was a vision of beauty. Surrounded by towering cliffs, its emerald waters sparkled under the midday sun, and in the distance, the small volcano of Gunung Barujari added a dramatic touch to the landscape. Tom took a dip in the nearby hot springs, a soothing balm for his aching muscles, before the reality of the next climb set in.
Uphill Again: To the Second Crater Rim
The post-lunch ascent to the second crater rim tested Tom’s limits. With sore legs and dwindling energy, he found himself moving at a snail’s pace. The steep path demanded every ounce of focus and determination, but the promise of another breathtaking view kept him going.
When he finally reached the second crater rim, the sight was nothing short of magical. Clouds drifted through the valley below, and the campsite seemed to float in the heavens. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group enjoyed a well-earned meal, their exhaustion temporarily forgotten in the glow of the setting sun.
Day 3: The Final Descent
The final day began with a sense of accomplishment. The descent from the second crater rim to Senaru was long but less demanding than the previous days. Tom opted to pick up the pace, transforming the hike into a thrilling trail run with two fellow trekkers. The forest echoed with their laughter and the crunch of leaves underfoot as they raced down the mountain.
Within hours, Tom reached the base, where he collapsed with a mix of relief and pride. The trek was over, but the memories were etched in his mind.
Reflection on an Unforgettable Adventure
Trekking Mt. Rinjani was one of the most challenging experiences of Tom’s life, but also one of the most rewarding. The 3D/2N Summit and Lake Trek pushed him to his physical and mental limits, but it also gave him unparalleled views, moments of camaraderie, and a deep sense of achievement.
For anyone considering climbing Mt. Rinjani, Tom offers this advice: prepare for the unexpected, pack smart, and embrace the journey. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about reaching the summit—it’s about discovering your own strength and resilience along the way.
