For many adventurers, hiking Mt. Rinjani is not just about reaching the summit—it’s a journey of personal growth, resilience, and awe. For one determined hiker, this trip was not only a physical challenge but also a chance to share a story of camaraderie, inspiration, and the raw beauty of Indonesia’s famed volcanic peak.
The Path to Adventure
This hiker’s journey began with inspiration sparked by a previous trek up Mount Kinabalu. That experience, captured in a documentary, caught the attention of Avider, a hiking organization passionate about enabling others to achieve their trekking dreams. With Avider’s support, the decision was made to take on the challenge of Mt. Rinjani and create a documentary to help others understand the experience and the invaluable services offered by local guides.
The night before the expedition, the team stayed at Wareong Senaru, a quaint retreat in northern Lombok. Amid the lush surroundings, the hiker meticulously prepared for the days ahead, ensuring their gear was light yet sufficient for the challenging trek. The excitement was palpable as the morning arrived, bringing with it a one-hour drive to the Sembalun entrance and the start of their journey.
Day 1: The Trek Begins
After a medical checkup at the Mount Rinjani Clinic to ensure every hiker was fit to proceed, the team met their porters and guides at the trailhead. These porters, carrying up to 25 kilograms of supplies with incredible ease, quickly earned the hiker’s admiration. Many wore only slippers yet moved swiftly along the trail—a testament to their experience and resilience.
The ascent began in earnest, winding through grasslands and past local farmers tending to their cattle. The first checkpoint, Pos 1 Pemantuan, provided a foggy and cooling environment, though it obscured the mountain views. This was followed by a stop at Pos 2 Tengengean, where hikers gathered for lunch amid bustling crowds of guides and porters.
The trail to Pos 3 Pada Balong revealed ever-expanding grasslands and glimpses of the massive earthquake crater from the 2018 Lombok quake. The rugged beauty of the terrain was a stark reminder of nature’s raw power. As the team pushed toward Pos 4 Cemara Siu, the hike became steeper, a prelude to the even more challenging summit attempt awaiting them.
Reaching the Sembalun Rim
Arriving at the crater rim, known as Plawangan Sembalun, was a moment of triumph. From this vantage point, the hiker could see the sea of clouds blanketing Segara Anak Lake and the distant summit of Mt. Rinjani. The campsite, though simple, offered everything the group needed: space for tents, a makeshift toilet, and stunning views that more than compensated for the lack of amenities.
Dinner was accompanied by a detailed briefing from their guide, Yu Jin, who outlined the summit plan. Despite exhaustion, the anticipation for the summit push kept spirits high. The hiker described the night as a mix of nerves and excitement, making sleep a fleeting luxury.
Day 2: The Summit Push
The team awoke at 12:30 a.m., bracing against the cold with multiple layers of clothing. After a quick breakfast, they began the Mt. Rinjani summit trek. The initial portion of the trail was steep but manageable, with compact paths through high-altitude vegetation. However, as they gained elevation, the volcanic sand made every step a challenge. For every step forward, it felt like two steps back—a phenomenon that tested the hiker’s resolve.
Despite the grueling conditions, the summit at 3,726 meters was finally within reach. Arriving just in time for sunrise, the group was rewarded with a breathtaking display of color and light. Standing atop the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, the hiker reflected on the journey’s physical and emotional demands. The reward, they said, was worth every struggle.
Descending to Segara Anak Lake
After descending to the crater rim, the group continued to Segara Anak Lake, also known as the Child of Sea Lake. The descent was steep and technically challenging, but the beauty of the lake and surrounding volcanic features kept spirits high. At the lakeside campsite, the group enjoyed unique experiences like fishing with local fishermen and soaking in nearby hot springs—a welcome respite for sore muscles.
The lake, stocked with fish through a government program, was a serene yet lively spot. However, the hiker noted a somber detail: litter scattered around the campsite. Local porters assured the group that all trash would be carried down the mountain, emphasizing the importance of preserving the environment.
Day 3: The Journey Home
On the final day, the team began their descent via the Torean trail. Known for its relatively gentle terrain, this route offered a stark contrast to the steep ascents and descents of the previous days. The trail meandered through rivers, waterfalls, and lush vegetation, creating an almost cinematic experience that the hiker likened to a scene from The Lord of the Rings.
The descent, though less strenuous, was long, requiring careful navigation of slippery paths. As they approached the Torean village, the hiker reflected on the journey’s highs and lows. A short motorbike ride to the final checkpoint marked the end of an unforgettable adventure.
A Story of Inspiration
The Mt. Rinjani trek was not just a physical feat for this hiker—it was a testament to resilience, teamwork, and the power of nature to inspire and humble. Supported by Avider’s expertise and the incredible porters, the hiker achieved a lifelong dream while documenting every step to inspire others.
This story serves as a vivid reminder that hiking Mt. Rinjani is about more than reaching the summit. It is about embracing the journey, respecting the mountain, and celebrating the shared determination of those who take on this extraordinary challenge.
