Caitlin Wallis, a traveler with an adventurous spirit and a knack for humor, embarked on a whirlwind journey to Mt. Rinjani in Lombok, Indonesia. Known for its challenging terrain and stunning views, Rinjani promised Caitlin an unforgettable trek—and it delivered in every way. Her 2D/1N Crater Rim Trek offered a mix of physical exertion, breathtaking scenery, and even some mischievous monkey antics that added a touch of hilarity to the experience.
The Beginning: A Journey to the Base
Arriving in Lombok after a long journey from Kuala Lumpur, Caitlin was greeted by the unexpected vastness of the island. The three-hour drive to the village of Senaru, nestled at the foot of Mt. Rinjani, was an adventure in itself. Winding jungle roads, playful local children, and the promise of towering volcanic peaks in the distance set the stage for what lay ahead.
In Senaru, Caitlin met her guide, Irwan, and the porters who would carry supplies for the trek. The group stayed overnight in a modest lodge, enjoying the calm before the storm of the ascent.
Day 1: The Climb to the Crater Rim
At dawn, Caitlin and her group set off. The early morning air was cool and invigorating, a stark contrast to the effort it took to climb through the lush, jungle terrain. The trail was dotted with rest stops—Pos I, Pos Extra, and Pos II—each offering a brief respite and a chance to take in the increasingly stunning surroundings.
By the time they reached Pos III, the group was ready for a well-deserved break. As Caitlin relaxed with a steaming cup of tea, she found herself under siege by a gang of clever monkeys. One particularly brazen thief snatched a packet of coconut biscuits right from their midst. The scene escalated as the monkey flaunted his loot and promptly engaged in some rather shameless behavior with a female companion, leaving Caitlin and her group both shocked and amused.
The final push to the Sembalun Crater Rim was grueling. The jungle trail gave way to loose gravel and scree, making each step forward a battle against gravity. Caitlin, ever the optimist, found joy in the rocky scramble near the top, even as mist enveloped the trail. Emerging from the clouds, the group was rewarded with their first glimpse of Segara Anak Lake far below—a turquoise jewel in the heart of the caldera.
Night at the Crater Rim
As the porters set up camp, Caitlin marveled at their strength and resilience. These men carried heavy loads of food, water, and camping gear with ease, despite having just returned to work after the rainy season hiatus. Their efforts ensured that Caitlin and her group could enjoy a warm meal and some much-needed rest.
The night at the crater rim was far from peaceful. A thunderstorm illuminated the sky, and wild dogs scuffled outside the tent. Despite the interruptions, Caitlin found herself in awe of her surroundings. The clear night sky, dotted with stars, reminded her of the wild beauty of the mountain.
Day 2: The Descent to Senaru
The morning greeted Caitlin with a muted sunrise, hidden by clouds. Even so, the sight of the summit and the lake below was enough to reinvigorate her spirits. After breakfast, the descent began—a six-hour journey through forested slopes back to Senaru.
The trail was slippery from overnight rain, and Caitlin’s earlier joke about falling proved prophetic. She took a few tumbles but managed to laugh them off, her sense of humor intact despite the challenges. Memories of her younger self running down Ol Doinyo Lengai in Tanzania came flooding back, a stark contrast to the careful, measured steps she now took as an adult.
Finally, the group reached Senaru, where they were welcomed with a hearty lunch. Exhausted but exhilarated, Caitlin reflected on the trek as she prepared for the next leg of her journey to the Gili Islands.
An Adventure to Remember
For Caitlin, the Mt. Rinjani Crater Rim Trek was more than just a physical challenge—it was an adventure filled with camaraderie, stunning natural beauty, and unforgettable moments. From the mischievous monkeys to the awe-inspiring views, every step of the trek added a new layer to her story. Caitlin’s humorous recounting of her journey serves as both a cautionary tale and an invitation for others to embrace the thrill of climbing Mt. Rinjani.
