For many hikers, the allure of Mt. Rinjani lies in its towering peak and stunning vistas, but for one intrepid adventurer, this journey was about more than just the climb—it was a chance to conquer their first Seven Summit in Indonesia. After several failed attempts to plan the trip, the stars finally aligned when a friend, Enence, proposed a last-minute adventure with a promotional trek package. With excitement brewing, the decision to tackle hiking Mt. Rinjani was made, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
The Arrival in Lombok
This was the hiker’s first venture beyond Java Island, and the excitement was palpable as they landed in Lombok. The trip started with a night of preparations at a bustling basecamp, filled with hikers organizing their gear and sharing stories of anticipation. With a four-day, three-night trek ahead, every detail had to be meticulously planned, from the compactly packed luggage to the essential supplies needed for the journey.
The trek began at dawn with a drive to the trailhead at Sembalun. Along the way, the group passed small villages and picturesque landscapes, catching glimpses of local life. The starting point was buzzing with activity as porters prepared to carry supplies, showcasing their incredible strength and endurance. For the hikers, the journey was as much about the camaraderie as it was about the climb.
Day One: The Ascent Begins
The first day of trekking was a gentle introduction to the challenge ahead. The path to Pos 1 was surrounded by lush grasslands, and the cooler weather made the initial stretch comfortable. Local farmers tending their cattle dotted the landscape, adding a touch of rural charm to the hike. By the time the group reached Pos 2 for lunch, the camaraderie among hikers was evident. Porters and guides worked seamlessly to prepare meals and ensure everyone had what they needed.
The trail from Pos 2 to Pos 3 presented more challenges. As the group climbed higher, they encountered remnants of past volcanic activity, including craters formed by the 2018 earthquake. These natural formations were both awe-inspiring and humbling, a reminder of the power of the Earth. The weather turned foggy, obscuring the views but adding an air of mystique to the surroundings.
Reaching Pos 3 marked a turning point. The terrain became steeper and more demanding, with loose volcanic sand making every step a test of balance and determination. This portion of the trek, humorously nicknamed “Bukit Penyesalan” or “The Hill of Regrets,” was a true test of perseverance.
The First Night: Sembalun Rim
As the group reached the Sembalun Rim, the reward for their efforts was breathtaking. A sea of clouds blanketed the landscape, partially revealing Segara Anak Lake below and the imposing summit above. Despite the simple campsite facilities, the stunning views and the sense of achievement made it a memorable stop. Dinner was a communal affair, with guides briefing the group on the summit trek ahead and hikers sharing stories around the camp.
The cold night brought clear skies, with the Milky Way stretching across the horizon. For the hiker, this was a magical moment, one that underscored the beauty and vastness of the mountain.
Day Two: The Summit Push
The team rose at 12:30 a.m. for the summit trek, layering up against the biting cold. Fueled by a simple yet satisfying breakfast, they began the steep ascent in darkness. The trail was unrelenting, with soft volcanic sand that made every step a challenge. For every step forward, it felt like two steps back, but the group pressed on, encouraging one another through the most demanding portions.
As dawn broke, the summit came into view, bathed in hues of orange and pink. Reaching the peak at 3,726 meters was a moment of pure triumph. The panoramic views stretched across Lombok, with the volcanic crater and surrounding landscape creating an unforgettable tableau. This was the culmination of months of planning and years of dreaming.
The descent was quicker but no less dramatic, with clear skies revealing the path they had climbed in the early hours. Back at the crater rim, the group rested and reflected on their achievement before continuing to the next highlight: Segara Anak Lake.
Segara Anak Lake and the Hot Springs
Descending to Segara Anak Lake was a welcome change of pace, though the trail was steep and required careful navigation. The lake, with its striking blue waters and the active volcano Mount Baru Jari rising from its center, was a sight to behold. The group set up camp by the lakeside, enjoying the serene atmosphere and learning about the lake’s unique ecosystem, including its tilapia and goldfish population.
A short hike led to natural hot springs, where the hikers soaked their tired muscles. The warm waters provided a perfect moment of relaxation after the strenuous trek, and the group shared laughs and stories, deepening their bond.
Day Three: The Torean Trail Descent
The final day began with a hearty breakfast and a bittersweet farewell to the campsite. The descent via the Torean trail offered new scenery, with rivers, waterfalls, and dense vegetation creating a picturesque backdrop. This portion of the trek was less physically demanding but required careful footing on the slippery terrain.
As the group approached the end of their journey, they passed through charming villages and were greeted warmly by locals. A short motorbike ride brought them to the final checkpoint, where the realization of their achievement began to sink in.
Reflections on the Journey
For this hiker, climbing Mt. Rinjani was more than just a physical accomplishment. It was an opportunity to connect with nature, form lasting friendships, and push personal boundaries. The journey was a reminder of the resilience of both the human spirit and the natural world. Documenting the experience was a way to inspire others to take on their own adventures and to appreciate the beauty and challenges that make Mt. Rinjani one of Indonesia’s most cherished peaks.
