For adventurers Rishy and her partner, the journey to the summit of Mt. Rinjani was a test of endurance, willpower, and mental fortitude. Their two-night, three-day trek to Indonesia’s second-highest volcano left them with unforgettable memories—and no shortage of challenges. This is their raw, honest account of what it takes to conquer the Mt. Rinjani Summit Trek.
The Journey Begins: A Daunting Introduction
The trip began with a medical check, a formality to ensure hikers were fit enough for the grueling climb ahead. Despite the brief test, Rishy and her group of thirteen felt prepared as they embarked on the adventure. Laden with heavy backpacks, they quickly learned that Mt. Rinjani demanded more than physical strength. The volcano’s towering presence loomed above them as they climbed from one position to the next, with each step building the anticipation—and the difficulty.
Starting at the base, their trek quickly highlighted the immensity of the challenge. From carrying three days’ worth of clothing, snacks, and gear to navigating uneven paths, the hikers soon realized the true weight of their undertaking. The first two positions provided relatively manageable inclines, but beyond position two, the trail began its unrelenting ascent.
The Relentless Climb: Position Three and Beyond
As they neared position three, the terrain shifted dramatically. Loose volcanic rocks and steep paths slowed their progress, and the physical toll of the hike became undeniable. With each step forward, the loose gravel pushed them one step back, creating a Sisyphean task that tested both body and spirit. The group’s porters, many trekking in flip-flops and carrying tents, cooking equipment, and food, inspired awe as they moved gracefully up the mountain.
The hike to the crater rim forced the group to confront their limits. Rishy openly admitted her struggles, questioning why she had embarked on such an arduous climb. She and her partner began to feel the emotional and physical weight of the journey, labeling the experience a “morale killer.” Yet, the stunning views and camaraderie with fellow hikers pushed them onward.
Base Camp: A Moment of Respite
Reaching the crater rim, they finally arrived at base camp, their home for the night. Nestled amidst dramatic volcanic scenery, the camp offered a brief respite. Despite their exhaustion, the hikers were treated to an awe-inspiring sunset, a vibrant display of colors that seemed almost surreal. For Rishy, this moment was the high point of the day, a stark contrast to the grueling trek that preceded it.
As night fell, the wind picked up, rattling their tent as they prepared for a sleepless few hours before the final ascent. The reality of the summit trek, beginning at 2 a.m., loomed large, filling the hikers with a mix of dread and determination.
The Summit Push: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back
The summit climb began in darkness, illuminated only by the faint glow of headlamps and the steady movement of hikers ahead. The path was steep and covered in scree, making each step an effort. For every two steps forward, they slid one step back, the unforgiving terrain sapping their strength. Along the way, they passed a hiker who had collapsed, a sobering reminder of the trek’s difficulty.
As dawn approached, the first rays of sunlight revealed the dramatic landscape they had been traversing. The summit loomed ahead, its sheer height both intimidating and exhilarating. After hours of struggle, Rishy and her partner finally reached the top, 3,726 meters above sea level. They celebrated with Oreos, savoring the triumph of standing on Mt. Rinjani’s peak.
The summit offered unparalleled views of Segara Anak Lake and the volcanic cone within. For Rishy, the breathtaking panorama was a fitting reward for the grueling journey. Yet, she admitted that the hike was the hardest she had ever undertaken, a sentiment shared by many who attempt the Mt. Rinjani Summit Trek.
The Decision to Descend
After conquering the summit, the group faced another decision: to continue to the next campsite or begin their descent. Physically and emotionally drained, Rishy and her partner chose to descend. While the downward journey lacked the adrenaline of the climb, it posed its own challenges. The steep, slippery terrain demanded constant focus, and the descent proved almost as taxing as the ascent.
Reflections on the Journey
Rishy’s account is an unfiltered glimpse into the reality of hiking Mt. Rinjani. From the stunning sunsets to the physical and emotional toll of the trek, she and her partner experienced the full spectrum of highs and lows. They emerged from the adventure with a newfound respect for the mountain and for the resilience it demands.
While their journey was far from easy, it was unforgettable. Their story is a testament to the spirit of adventure, the power of determination, and the beauty of Mt. Rinjani’s unforgiving landscapes. For those considering the trek, Rishy’s advice is clear: prepare for the challenge, embrace the struggle, and savor the moments of awe that make it all worthwhile.
