Nam and Wing, seasoned adventurers and the duo behind the YouTube channel Laugh Travel Eat, set out to conquer Mt. Rinjani with a 3-day, 2-night trek that was as challenging as it was rewarding. Their meticulous planning and infectious enthusiasm made their journey a captivating tale of perseverance, camaraderie, and awe-inspiring views.
Day Zero: The Journey to Lombok
The adventure began with a domestic flight from Bali to Lombok, where a tour driver awaited them at the airport with a sign bearing their names. A three-hour drive later, they arrived in Senaru, where the majestic Mt. Rinjani peeked through the clouds. Staying at Pondok Cottage, they enjoyed a comforting meal of Nasi Goreng at Café Rifka before preparing for the climb. Packing was no small task, with Wing meticulously organizing her gear, including gloves, hiking poles, knee braces, and even a massage ball. Nam followed suit, ensuring they were ready for the adventure ahead.
Day One: The Climb to the Crater Rim
After an early breakfast of banana pancakes and ginger tea, Nam and Wing met their guide, Adi, and porters, Adi 2 and Anton. The trek began in Sembalun, where a gentle dirt trail soon transitioned to steeper inclines. The first official stop, Pos 1, came after an hour and 20 minutes of hiking. Monkeys, motorbikes, and other hikers added character to the trail, but the true heroes of the day were the porters, carrying camping gear and food in flip-flops with remarkable ease.
Lunch at Pos 2 was a lively affair, with hot ginger tea, fresh fruit, and hearty dishes prepared by the porters. The trail to Pos 3 became steeper, winding past remnants of the 2018 earthquake and historic lava flows. Rain began to fall as they climbed, adding an extra challenge, but they pushed through, eventually reaching the Crater Rim Camp at 3:36 PM.
The camp, perched high above the clouds, offered fleeting views of the crater lake below. As the sun set, temperatures dropped, and the group huddled in their tents, savoring a coconut curry dinner before retiring for the night.
Day Two: The Summit Push
At 1:33 AM, Nam and Wing began their summit push. Breakfast was a simple egg and cheese sandwich, fueling them for the grueling three-hour climb. In the dark, the trail was steep and ashy, with every step forward feeling like a battle against the terrain. Hiking poles became essential, and the duo leaned on each other for motivation.
By 5:30 AM, they reached the summit at 3,726 meters, greeted by a breathtaking view of the crater lake, volcanic rocks, and the sprawling Lombok landscape. The crowded peak buzzed with energy as hikers snapped photos, though Wing’s drone remained grounded due to connectivity issues. After soaking in the views, they began their descent, sliding down the volcanic ash with a mix of relief and caution.
Exploring the Lake and the Descent to the Camp
After returning to the Crater Rim Camp, the duo rested briefly before continuing to the lake. The descent was steep and rocky, with ropes required in certain sections. The lake, though less picturesque than expected due to cloudy weather, offered a sense of accomplishment. A quick dip in the nearby hot springs provided a brief respite from the rain before lunch.
The afternoon climb back to camp was grueling. Muddy trails and rain added to the challenge, but the promise of Nasi Goreng and a warm tent kept them going. Exhausted but triumphant, Nam and Wing fell asleep early, dreaming of their final descent.
Day Three: The Final Descent
The Senaru Crater Rim Camp offered a stunning morning view of Bali’s Agung volcano as the group prepared for the final leg. The descent began with rocky paths that transitioned into muddy trails. Hiking poles once again proved invaluable, and the group made steady progress, stopping at various rest points to take in the scenery and learn about the 2018 earthquake’s impact on the trail.
By late morning, they reached Pos 1, where lunch awaited. A final push brought them to the trailhead, where the group reunited with their porters and tipped them generously, acknowledging their incredible effort. Despite the slippery walk to the pick-up point, Nam and Wing ended their journey on a high note, ready to share their story with the world.
Reflections
Nam and Wing’s trek up Mt. Rinjani was a testament to careful preparation, teamwork, and determination. Their honest reflections on the physical and mental challenges of hiking Mt. Rinjani made their story relatable and inspiring. From the Crater Rim Trek to the Mt. Rinjani Summit Trek, every moment was a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.
Their adventure serves as a guide for anyone considering trekking Mt. Rinjani, emphasizing the importance of preparation, perseverance, and respect for the mountain. Whether you’re drawn by the challenge or the views, Nam and Wing’s journey proves that Mt. Rinjani is an experience you’ll never forget.
