Mt. Rinjani 2-Day Crater or Summit Hike with Porter Service

Our review of the Mt. Rinjani 2-Day Crater or Summit Hike with Porter Service offers a detailed look at what promises to be one of Lombok’s most memorable adventures. While we haven’t personally climbed it, this well-organized tour appears to deliver an authentic mountain experience, combining adventure, comfort, and incredible scenery.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? We love how it offers the chance to trek through pristine rainforests and spectacular volcanic landscapes while ensuring you’re well-supported with professional guides and porters. Also, the option to sleep under the stars at the crater rim makes it stand out as a genuinely immersive experience.

However, potential hikers should consider that the trek requires a fair level of fitness, especially if you aim to reach the summit. It’s not suited for those with mountain sickness, vertigo, or very young children. But for those seeking an authentic adventure with a touch of comfort, this tour is a strong contender.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This journey suits adventure travelers who appreciate well-organized support, stunning vistas, and aren’t afraid of some physical exertion. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those wanting to experience Lombok’s volcanic beauty with the added benefit of guided expertise and porter assistance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Witness sunrises and sunsets over Bali, Gili Islands, and Mt. Agung.
• Supportive Experience: Benefit from professional porters carrying camping gear, allowing you to focus on the trek.
• Authentic Camping: Sleep under the stars at the crater rim with all necessary gear provided.
• Accessible for Enthusiasts: Suitable for those with good fitness levels, but not recommended for young children or those with vertigo.
• Value for Money: At $140, it offers a comprehensive package including guides, meals, and equipment.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personal attention and a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Look

Day 1: From Sembulan Village to the Crater Rim

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel on Lombok, followed by a transfer to Sembulan village for registration. This initial stage sets the tone—expect a scenic drive through lush landscapes before hitting the trail. You’ll start your trek through pristine rainforest, gaining altitude to Pemantauan at 1,300 meters, a peaceful spot that feels miles from everyday life.

From there, the trail takes you through Tengengean and Pada Balong, where you’ll pause for lunch. These are lovely spots to rest and enjoy the cool mountain air. The highlight is reaching the Sembulan crater rim in the late afternoon, where you’ll set up camp. The views at this elevation are stunning—craters, volcanic rocks, and sweeping vistas of Lombok’s landscape.

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

Early risers will appreciate the option to hike to the summit before dawn—a true bucket-list moment, with spectacular sunrise views over Bali, Gili Islands, and Mount Agung. For those preferring a more relaxed start, watching the sunrise from the crater rim is equally rewarding.

Reaching the 3,672-meter summit of Mt. Rinjani** is no small feat but offers some of the most dramatic views you can imagine. The sense of achievement is complemented by the panoramic scenery—the crater’s jagged edges, surrounding islands, and distant volcanoes.

Afterward, you’ll descend back to the crater rim for a hearty breakfast, then trek down towards Sembulan, passing through varied terrains that include rainforest and savanna. Expect a full day of hiking, with a mixture of challenging ascents and gentle descents, culminating in a return to your starting point for lunch.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package’s strength lies in its comprehensive support: experienced guides and professional porters handle the camping gear and cooking utensils, so your load is significantly lighter. You’ll enjoy three hearty meals a day, including snacks like pineapple, banana, cheese, and chocolate, and plenty of water, tea, and coffee to keep you energized.

The camping gear, including large private tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and toilet tents, ensures comfort at the crater rim. The transportation from Lombok hotels to the trailhead is seamless, with free pick-up and drop-off from key locations like Banksal and Sengigi.

However, the Rinjani National Park entrance fee (IDR 150,000) is not included. You’ll also need to arrange your pre-trek accommodation separately. Items like trekking shoes, jackets, headgear, and trekking poles are recommended but not provided, allowing you to bring your own or rent locally.

The Experience: Authenticity and Support

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with reviews highlighting their expertise. As one traveler said, “Couldn’t have asked for a better guide and porter,” emphasizing the professionalism that makes this challenging trek safer and more enjoyable.

The meals are said to be delicious and filling, with a nice variety of local and Western options. This is important on a multi-day trek where nutrition impacts stamina. The camp setup at the crater rim allows you to truly connect with the environment—sleeping under the stars, surrounded by volcanic landscapes, is an experience few forget.

Views and Photo Opportunities

Expect breathtaking vistas at every turn. The sunrise over Bali and Gili Islands is a highlight, easily captured with your camera or phone. The trek offers photo-worthy moments from lush rainforest to rugged volcanic terrain, making it perfect for travelers eager to document their adventure.

Challenges and Considerations

The climb is physically demanding. While the tour is designed for those with good fitness, the altitude and steep sections require effort. People prone to mountain sickness or vertigo should consider their limits. Also, weather can change quickly; packing a warm coat or jacket is wise, as temperatures can drop sharply at higher elevations.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers who value guided support, want to witness spectacular volcanic scenery, and enjoy camping in a truly remote environment, this Rinjani trek offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences but prefer having porters and guides to lighten the load.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and camaraderie. The inclusion of meals, camping gear, and transportation simplifies logistics and ensures you won’t get bogged down with planning.

That said, it’s not a casual stroll—this is a challenging trek that demands good physical condition. But for those prepared, the reward of reaching Rinjani’s summit and sleeping at the crater rim is incomparable.

Who should consider this?

Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those with a sense of adventure will find this tour a worthwhile challenge. If you’re seeking a guided experience with logistical support, and don’t mind a bit of physical effort, this package offers an authentic taste of Lombok’s volcanic majesty.

FAQs

Do I need special trekking gear?
You should bring your own trekking shoes, jacket, and headgear. The tour does not provide these, but you can rent a small backpack if needed.

Is this suitable for children?
You must be at least 10 years old and in good health. It’s best suited for those who can walk long distances comfortably.

What’s included in the price?
The $140 fee covers guides, porters, meals, camping gear, and transportation to and from Lombok hotels.

Are meals provided?
Yes, you’ll enjoy three meals a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with snacks and drinks.

What about the park entrance fee?
The IDR 150,000 entrance fee for Rinjani National Park is not included and must be paid separately.

Can I stay overnight at the crater rim?
Yes, you have the option to sleep at the crater rim and watch the sunrise before descending.

How physically demanding is the trek?
It’s quite strenuous, especially when climbing to the summit. Good fitness levels and walking experience are recommended.

What should I pack?
Bring outdoor clothing, warm layers, personal medicine, camera, and trekking gear.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, it features an English-speaking guide and professional porters, ensuring safety and local expertise.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

In brief, the Mt. Rinjani 2-Day Trek offers a well-supported, scenic, and rewarding adventure for those ready to tackle Indonesia’s highest volcano. It balances authentic outdoor camping with the security of guided support, making it a compelling choice for adventure-minded travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: