Sandra Rosenau, an intrepid traveler and environmental advocate, took on one of Indonesia’s most challenging treks: the 3D/2N Mt. Rinjani Torean/Senaru route. Known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery, this trek pushed Sandra to her limits while reaffirming her deep respect for nature and sustainable travel.
Here’s the story of her unforgettable journey.
Day 1: From Torean Village to Segara Anak Lake
Sandra’s adventure began in Torean, a quaint village on the northern slopes of Mt. Rinjani. Early morning sunlight filtered through the lush trees as she met her guide and porters. With excitement and trepidation, Sandra set out on the trail, which would eventually climb from 600 meters above sea level to Segara Anak Lake at 2,000 meters.
The first stretch was mesmerizing. The Torean Canyon revealed its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls, painting a picture of natural beauty that felt untouched by time. Sandra marveled at the interplay of rugged rock faces and verdant greenery, a sight that invigorated her tired legs. The trail, however, was no leisurely stroll. Loose sand and narrow paths demanded constant focus, especially for Sandra, who admitted to a fear of heights. Her guide’s steady reassurance helped her traverse the precarious sections.
By midday, the group stopped for a hearty lunch prepared by the porters, whose strength and skill left Sandra in awe. “Watching them carry 60-kilogram loads up this unforgiving terrain, often in flip-flops, was humbling,” she later reflected.
After the break, the trek grew steeper, requiring every ounce of Sandra’s willpower. Yet, as the crater rim came into view, her fatigue was replaced by sheer wonder. Segara Anak Lake sparkled under the late afternoon sun, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. Nearby, the active volcano Mount Barujari emitted faint wisps of smoke—a reminder of the raw power beneath the earth.
The day ended with a soothing soak in a natural hot spring overlooking the canyon. Sandra described it as “a luxury in the middle of an arduous adventure.” Revitalized, she retired to her tent, nestled under a canopy of stars.
Day 2: Scaling the Crater Rim
Day two began with the first light of dawn. The lake shimmered in the soft glow of sunrise, inspiring Sandra to embrace the steep ascent ahead. The trail from the lake to the Senaru Crater Rim was as daunting as it was rewarding. Loose volcanic ash made every step an effort, but Sandra found her rhythm with the help of hiking poles rented from her trekking company.
Along the way, nature provided moments of respite. Sandra spotted playful long-tailed macaques and even a rare ebony leaf monkey darting through the trees. These encounters, she said, were a reminder of the wilderness’s fragility and the importance of sustainable trekking.
As the group climbed higher, the terrain became increasingly challenging, with near-vertical sections requiring hands and feet to navigate. Sandra’s guide, Fahmi, was a calming presence, helping her find footing on slippery rocks and boosting her confidence. “At one point, he literally held my hand as we descended a treacherous slope,” she recalled.
Reaching the Senaru Crater Rim felt like an incredible achievement. The panoramic views stretched beyond Segara Anak Lake to the distant Gili Islands and Bali’s Mount Agung. The sunset over the Lombok Strait was a spectacle Sandra would never forget, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. That night, wrapped in layers to combat the cold, she fell asleep under a sky glittering with stars.
Day 3: The Final Descent
The final day was all downhill—a grueling test for Sandra’s knees and quads. The trail from the crater rim to Senaru Village was steep and rocky, requiring careful navigation. Sandra found herself slipping often, but her sense of humor turned mishaps into a lighthearted competition with a fellow hiker. “Whoever fell the most won, and I’m proud to say I took the prize,” she joked.
The descent led through dense tropical forest, providing welcome shade from the sun. Birds and butterflies flitted through the canopy, adding moments of serenity to the arduous trek. By the time Sandra emerged in Senaru Village, she was physically drained but emotionally exhilarated. Crossing the finish line felt like a triumph over both the mountain and herself.
Sustainability and Reflection
Sandra’s trek was not only a physical challenge but also a testament to her commitment to sustainable travel. The trekking company adhered to a strict “leave only footprints” policy, carrying out not only their own waste but also trash left by others. For every trekker, a tree was planted during the rainy season—a gesture Sandra deeply appreciated.
Reflecting on her journey, Sandra described the 3D/2N Torean/Senaru trek as one of the hardest yet most rewarding experiences of her life. “Hiking Mt. Rinjani is not just about reaching the summit or the crater rim,” she said. “It’s about every moment in between—every struggle, every breathtaking view, and every connection with the people who made it possible.”
For those considering the trek, Sandra’s advice is simple: Be prepared, take your time, and let the mountain reveal its magic.
