Mount Rinjani 2D/1N Trekking To the Summit or Crater Rim

A Guest’s Guide to the Mount Rinjani 2D/1N Trekking Experience

Thinking about taking on Indonesia’s second tallest volcano? The Mount Rinjani 2D/1N Trek offers an exhilarating journey through lush rainforest, a night camping on the crater rim, and a sunrise summit climb. While it’s not a casual stroll, the rewards—spectacular vistas and a true sense of achievement—make it a bucket-list adventure worth considering.

What we love about this trek is how it balances physical challenge with breathtaking scenery and cultural authenticity. It’s great for those who want more than just a photo; you’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the delicious local food, and the chance to connect with nature. However, it’s not ideal if you’re not comfortable hiking long distances or dealing with high altitudes.

This tour is best suited for travelers with a decent fitness level who crave an active adventure and want to experience Indonesia’s volcanic landscape in a real, up-close way. If you’re prepared to carry yourself through rainforests and up volcanic slopes, this trek could be a highlight of your Lombok trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Camping: Sleep under the stars at the crater rim, with all gear provided.
• Breathtaking Views: Witness sunrise from 3,726 meters, the second-highest volcano in Indonesia.
• Expert Guidance: Experienced English-speaking guides and professional porters ensure safety and comfort.
• Balanced Itinerary: Day 1 covers rainforest trekking and crater camp setup; Day 2 offers summit success or a leisurely sunrise.
• Good Value: At $135, it includes most essentials like meals, gear, and transportation, making it a cost-effective adventure.
• Limited Groups: Small groups of 6 mean more personalized attention and a more authentic experience.

The Route & What to Expect

The Mount Rinjani trek is designed to give you an authentic, multi-sensory experience of Lombok’s natural beauty. The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel and a transfer to Sembalun village. From here, the real adventure begins—trekking through vibrant rainforests, ascending volcanic slopes, and setting up camp on the crater rim.

Day 1: From Sembalun Village to the Crater Rim

You’ll start early, ideally around dawn, to beat the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures. The initial trek takes you through dense tropical forests, where the air is thick with the scent of damp earth and lush greenery. Guides will carry cooking utensils and camping gear, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and your footing.

Stops at Pemantauan, Tengengean, and Pada Balong break up the trek, with the latter providing a good resting point and a chance to refuel with a packed lunch. The trail gradually gains elevation, culminating at the Sembalun Crater Rim at around 2,639 meters. Here, you’ll pitch your tent, take in the views, and soak in the serenity of this volcanic caldera.

Day 2: From the Crater Rim to the Summit and Back

The highlight awaits early the next morning. You can choose to rise before dawn for a pre-sunrise ascent to the mountain’s summit at 3,726 meters, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the crater rim and watch the sunrise from there. The trek up to the summit is demanding but immensely rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands, the crater lake, and the rolling landscape below.

Depending on conditions and your preference, some may opt to stay longer at the crater rim, taking advantage of the peaceful morning hours. Those who make the climb will see the sunrise light up Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, a moment many find unforgettable.

After descending back to the camp for a hot breakfast, you’ll trek back through the rainforest and down to Sembalun village, where your transport awaits for the return trip.

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What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price of $135 per person is quite reasonable considering what’s included. You get experienced guides and porters, all camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, mats, toilet tent), meals, water, and transportation to and from your hotel. The guides also carry the cooking gear, so you can focus on the experience.

Meals are plentiful and fresh—think fruit like bananas and pineapples, hearty three-course meals, and snacks to keep your energy up. Drinks like tea and coffee are available throughout, and water is provided in generous quantities (3 liters per day).

Additional conveniences include storage for your non-hiking backpack in the office, pickup from your Lombok accommodation, and a small group size (limited to 6 participants) for a more intimate experience.

However, some expenses are not included, like your pre-trek accommodation, park entrance tickets, trekking shoes, poles, headgear, jackets, or extra food. We recommend bringing your own sturdy gear if possible—though rental options might be available.

The Authentic Experience

What makes this trek stand out is the way it combines adventure with genuine local interaction. Guides are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge, making the journey safer and more informative. The food prepared on-site is often highlighted as a real treat, with reviewers noting how much they appreciated the snacks, fresh fruit, and hearty meals after a long day.

Sleeping at the crater rim under the stars is a magical experience, with some reviews mentioning the kindness of guides and porters, and the overall feeling of being in a special place. One reviewer shared: “Our porters and guide were kind, attentive, made great food, and gave us plenty of snacks,” which speaks to the care taken to ensure a comfortable adventure despite the rugged conditions.

The Challenge & Considerations

While the trek is manageable for those with a good fitness level, it’s physically demanding. Expect long walks, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions. The ascent to the summit is a true highlight but requires effort and some acclimation. If you’re prone to mountain sickness or have height fears, this might not be the best fit.

Weather can be unpredictable—rain is common during certain seasons, which can impact trail conditions and the hot springs (which are notably absent during rainy season). Make sure to pack appropriate clothing, including warm gear, rain protection, and sturdy footwear.

Who Will Love This Trek?

This journey is perfect for active travelers craving a challenge and authentic adventure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with long hikes, enjoying natural beauty, and want a taste of Indonesia’s volcanic landscape. The small group size, expert guiding, and inclusive meals make it a well-rounded package.

It also suits those looking for a meaningful outdoor experience—camping on the crater rim and witnessing sunrise views are once-in-a-lifetime moments. However, if you prefer relaxing vacations or have mobility issues, this trek might be too strenuous.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a genuine adventure and don’t mind the physical effort. For $135, this tour offers a fantastic mix of scenery, culture, and physical challenge, with most essentials covered. The guides’ professionalism and the chance to sleep on the volcano’s edge make this a memorable experience.

You’ll walk away with more than postcards—you’ll carry stories of conquering a mountain, sharing delicious meals in the wild, and watching the sky light up from one of Indonesia’s most stunning vantage points.

Good for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Lombok from a different angle. Just come prepared—bring warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure—and you’ll be rewarded with one of Indonesia’s most breathtaking journeys.

FAQ

Do I need trekking experience?
While not mandatory, a good fitness level and comfort with long walks are necessary. The trek is physically demanding but well-supported with guides and porters.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, making for personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.

What should I pack?
Bring trekking shoes, warm clothes, a headlamp, rain gear, personal medicine, and a small towel. Equipment like trekking poles and jackets can often be rented if needed.

Is the trek suitable for children?
The minimum age for participation is 10 years old, so it’s suitable for older children who are physically capable.

How difficult is the ascent to the summit?
It’s challenging but manageable for those in good shape. Expect steep parts and high altitude, which can cause fatigue and require careful pacing.

Are hot springs part of the experience?
No, hot springs are not available, especially during the rainy season, but the views and camping experience compensate for this.

What about weather concerns?
The trail may be closed during extreme weather (e.g., until late March 2018); always check current conditions and be prepared for rain or cold.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Lombok accommodation are included, along with transportation to the trek starting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

This detailed trek offers a rare chance to truly connect with Indonesia’s volcanic soul, combining adventure, nature, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an eager explorer, the Mount Rinjani 2D/1N trek promises an unforgettable chapter in your travel story.

You can check availability for your dates here: