Rita and her partner embarked on an unforgettable journey to Mt. Rinjani, a three-day, two-night adventure that tested their physical and mental endurance. With their sights set on reaching the summit at 3,726 meters, they documented every step of their trek, from the vibrant local markets at the base to the challenging terrain that led them high above the clouds.
Day One: The Ascent Begins
The adventure began with an early start at their hotel, where they underwent medical exams before setting off toward the first camp at 2,600 meters. Passing through a bustling local market, they were greeted by cheerful locals offering their best wishes. “It was such a warm start to the day, and the energy was contagious,” Rita said.
The initial hike to Post One was manageable, but the blazing heat made it grueling. Rita reflected, “The climb wasn’t steep, but the sun was relentless.” As they gained altitude, the temperature cooled, offering some relief. They paused at Post Two for lunch, a delicious spread of rice, vegetables, tempeh, and chicken. “The care and effort the porters put into preparing our meals were incredible,” Rita shared.
Reaching the Crater Rim
The final stretch to the Crater Rim Camp was steep and slippery. Rita and her partner relied on frequent breaks to catch their breath and savor the breathtaking views. By the time they reached the camp, exhaustion was evident, but so was their joy. “The sense of accomplishment as we saw the crater and our camp was overwhelming,” Rita said.
Their campsite was simple but welcoming, with a tent overlooking the crater and the summit looming in the distance. Dinner was another impressive meal, featuring a fried banana dessert topped with chocolate and coconut. “We couldn’t believe we were being treated to such amazing food up here,” Rita marveled. As night fell, they bundled up in their sleeping bags, bracing themselves for the early summit trek.
Day Two: A Challenge Like No Other
At 2 AM, the climbers began their summit push. With only headlamps to light their path, they faced freezing winds and loose terrain. The incline was relentless, and every step felt like a battle. Rita described it as “the hardest physical challenge of our lives.”
About an hour from the summit, strong winds and poor visibility forced them to turn back. Other climbers descending from the summit confirmed that the view was obscured by clouds. “It was disappointing, but we weren’t willing to risk our safety,” Rita explained. Despite this, reaching 3,500 meters was an achievement they celebrated.
Descending to the Lake
After returning to the Crater Rim Camp for breakfast, the descent toward the volcanic lake began. The path was steep and slippery, but the promise of hot springs kept their spirits up. Arriving at the lake, they soaked in the warm waters, letting the natural heat soothe their aching muscles. “It was exactly what we needed after such a tough morning,” Rita said.
The next challenge was climbing to the opposite side of the crater. Already fatigued, they pushed through another steep ascent to reach the second Crater Rim Camp. They arrived just in time for a spectacular sunset, a moment that made the grueling day worth it. “It felt like a reward for all the effort we put in,” Rita said.
Day Three: The Long Journey Home
The final day began with a hearty breakfast before starting the descent back to the base. The trail wound through dense forest, providing shade from the sun but challenging them with muddy terrain. Rita appreciated the calmer pace, though her legs were sore from the previous days.
After six hours of trekking, they finally reached the end of the trail. Rita described the moment as “a mix of relief and pride.” They reflected on the experience, grateful for the effort of their guides and porters who made the trek possible.
Reflections
Though they didn’t reach the summit, Rita and her partner’s trek on Mt. Rinjani was a journey of resilience and discovery. From the hospitality of the locals to the awe-inspiring views of the crater, every moment contributed to an unforgettable experience.
For anyone considering climbing Mt. Rinjani, Rita offers this advice: “Prepare for the challenge, embrace the discomfort, and savor every step. It’s tough, but it’s worth every moment.”
