Maria, an adventurous traveler and founder of A World of Destinations, never shies away from pushing her limits. Known for her off-the-beaten-path journeys, she recently tackled a 2D/1N trek to the crater rim of Mt. Rinjani, Lombok’s iconic volcano. Though she didn’t reach the summit due to trail closures, the experience remains etched in her memory as one of her most rewarding challenges.
A Quiet Start in Senaru
Maria’s adventure began with a ferry ride from Gili Air to Lombok, where a guide escorted her to the village of Senaru. Nestled amidst verdant landscapes, Senaru is the traditional starting point for many trekking adventures. Maria’s accommodations, though basic, offered a glimpse into local life. After settling in, she seized the free afternoon to visit Tiu Kelep waterfall. A short 30-minute hike led her to this stunning cascade, where the water thundered down from 45 meters, surrounded by lush greenery. The tranquil setting provided the perfect prelude to the demanding trek ahead.
After a refreshing dinner, Maria joined her guide for a detailed briefing, during which she learned the itinerary and packed her essentials. Restless with anticipation, she retired early, ready to embrace the challenge.
Day 1: A Grueling Ascent
At 6 a.m., Maria started her day with a cup of Balinese coffee and a pancake, fueling her for the journey. With her guide and a small group of fellow trekkers, she departed from Senaru’s entrance gate, the starting point of the climb. The initial stretch through the woods offered a gentle incline, allowing the group to chat and bond.
However, the terrain quickly steepened. By mid-morning, Maria and her group reached a clearing where the porters prepared lunch—a hot meal of rice, vegetables, chicken, and tempeh. The fresh mountain air amplified the flavor, and the group savored the break before pressing on.
The trail became more demanding after lunch, with steep inclines and loose rocks testing their endurance. As the hours passed, the group climbed through clouds, sweat soaking their clothes while cool breezes offered occasional respite. By 3 p.m., after nearly seven hours of relentless hiking, they reached the crater rim.
Camping on the Crater Rim
Exhausted but exhilarated, Maria gazed at the breathtaking view of the crater and Segara Anak Lake below. The volcanic terrain, contrasted by the calm lake, seemed surreal. The porters set up tents on the uneven ground while Maria explored the ridge, marveling at the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Dinner was served as the sun dipped below the horizon. The meal, simple yet satisfying, tasted like a feast after the day’s exertion. As night fell, temperatures plummeted, prompting Maria to layer up and retreat to her tent. The stars above illuminated the sky like a celestial map, a humbling reminder of nature’s grandeur.
Sleep, however, was elusive. The uneven ground and cold seeped through her sleeping bag, making the night uncomfortable. Yet, Maria remained grateful, cherishing the privilege of spending the night on a volcano’s edge.
Day 2: Sunrise and Descent
The following morning, Maria awoke to the soft chatter of fellow trekkers and unzipped her tent to witness a sky painted in hues of pink and purple. The sunrise over Mt. Rinjani was magical, with the surrounding peaks silhouetted against the glowing horizon.
After breakfast, the group began their descent. Though downhill, the journey was far from easy. Loose gravel and sandy paths made footing precarious, and Maria often found herself sliding rather than walking. The trail wound through diverse landscapes, from barren volcanic rock to lush tropical forests teeming with life.
By midday, they reached the trailhead, exhausted but victorious. Maria savored a final meal with her group before heading back to Senaru for a much-needed shower. A car awaited to take her to Kuta, marking the end of her adventure.
Reflections on Mt. Rinjani
Though she didn’t reach the summit, Maria’s 2D/1N trek to the crater rim was nothing short of transformative. The physical demands, coupled with the stunning vistas, tested her resilience and rewarded her determination. As she reflected on her journey, Maria shared a piece of advice for future adventurers: “Hiking Mt. Rinjani isn’t just about reaching the destination—it’s about the journey and the lessons learned along the way.”
For those seeking adventure and a chance to connect with nature’s raw beauty, trekking Mt. Rinjani offers an experience like no other. Maria’s story is a testament to the challenges and triumphs that come with embracing the unknown.
