If you’re looking for an adventure that combines physical challenge with jaw-dropping scenery, the 2-day, 1-night trek to Mount Rinjani’s second summit offers just that. This guided tour is designed for travelers who want a taste of Indonesia’s iconic volcano without committing to the full three-day climb. It’s perfect for those with a good level of fitness who crave spectacular views and authentic mountain experiences.
What makes this trek stand out? First, you’ll reach Sangkareang’s Second Summit at 3,126 meters, enjoying sweeping vistas of Lombok, Bali, and beyond. Second, the return journey offers the chance to witness sunrise over the horizon—a truly unforgettable moment. But, be prepared for a challenging ascent that requires decent physical condition and a bit of stamina. If you’re after a balance of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and manageable time investment, this trek is a strong contender.
That said, one consideration is the price point of around $224 per person, which includes guides, porters, food, and camping gear. While it offers excellent value, it’s worth noting that extra costs for transfers, park entrance fees, or personal equipment aren’t included. This is quite typical, but worth factoring into your overall budget.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to experience the beauty of Mount Rinjani’s landscapes, enjoy delicious local cuisine during the trek, and appreciate expert guidance. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer a shorter, more doable version of Rinjani’s famous summit climb.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: Reach the second summit at 3,126 meters for panoramic vistas of multiple islands.
- Authentic Experience: Trek through lush rainforests, crater rims, and volcanic landscapes with knowledgeable guides.
- Delicious Food: Enjoy substantial, well-cooked meals and fresh fruits on the trail, praised for quality and quantity.
- Convenient Itinerary: A 2-day plan that offers a taste of Rinjani without the three-day commitment.
- Challenging but Rewarding: Suitable for most in good shape, but expect a physically demanding ascent.
- Eco-Friendly Focus: The company actively maintains cleanliness and respects the environment.
A Detailed Look at the Trekking Experience
This tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup around 07:00 AM — a good sign that your guides are punctual and organized. From there, the journey begins with a trek through dense tropical forests, bursting with vibrant flora, birdlife, and butterflies. The trees and wildlife create a lush backdrop, a vivid reminder of Indonesia’s biodiversity. As you walk, your guide will share insights about the local flora and fauna, making the hike as educational as it is scenic.
By around 11:00 AM, you’ll take a break at Post 2 Montong Satas (1,500m), where fresh fruits and soft drinks await. This small pause is critical, giving your legs a chance to rest before the next stretch. The food provided here garners praise from trekkers, who highlight the generous portions and high quality—something that’s often appreciated after a couple of hours of uphill walking.
Post-lunch, the trek continues uphill to Pos 3 Mondokan Lolak (2,000m). This part of the journey adds an element of anticipation, as the landscape begins to open up, revealing more volcanic terrain. The trail then leads to the Crater Rim of Senaru (2,641m), where your effort is rewarded with one of the most spectacular views on the trip. Here, you’ll witness a stunning sunset over Mount Agung in Bali and smoke billowing from the volcano’s edge—an awe-inspiring sight.
Camping at the crater rim is a highlight, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the sunset. The campsite is equipped with tents, toilet facilities, and even comfortable mattresses—according to reviews, the level of care is exceptional, with some travelers noting that “the tent and the mattresses were SO comfortable, and the level of care and service was just insane.” The guide’s attentiveness is often praised, especially how they manage timing to ensure everyone reaches the summit before sunrise.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Indonesia.
The Next Morning: Reaching the Second Summit
Very early, around 03:30 AM, you wake for a quick breakfast before beginning the ascent to Sangkareang’s Second Summit. The trek takes around two hours and is physically demanding, especially in the dark. But the moment you reach the top, the views are truly worth every step. From this vantage point, you can see “spectacular views of Lombok, Bali, Sumbawa, and Segara Anak Lake,” as one reviewer described.
The sunrise from the summit is a highlight, illuminating the landscape with golden hues and revealing the volcanic terrain in stunning detail. After soaking it all in, you’ll descend back to the crater rim, enjoy breakfast, and then start the descent through the rainforest, where the chance to spot a black monkey adds a touch of wildlife excitement.
The Return Journey
The descent takes about five hours, with a scenic route through lush jungle and volcanic ash. Lunch along the way provides another hearty meal, appreciated for its flavor and energy boost. Arriving back at Senaru village marks the end of the trek, where guides will assist with luggage and transport to your hotel.
What’s Included and What Not
The package’s all-inclusive nature—guides, porters, food, camping gear—makes for a hassle-free experience. Having professional guides and porters means you’re well-supported, and the food is surprisingly good considering the remote environment, with some trekkers praising the “insanely good” meals.
However, some expenses aren’t covered, including transfers after the trek, a night’s accommodation before starting, and personal gear like trekking shoes and long pants. The park entrance fee of IDR 200,000 per day is your responsibility, so budget accordingly.
More Great Tours NearbyHow the Tour Works
The trek is organized as a private group, with flexible starting times depending on availability. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Senaru or Sembalun, making logistics straightforward. The tour is suitable for most in good physical condition, but not for children under 7 or those over 70, due to the physical demands.
The tour offers a cancelation policy up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers some flexibility. The guide speaks English, and an audio guide is included, ensuring clear communication about what you’re seeing.
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Authenticity and Reviews
What do previous travelers say? The feedback is glowing. One reviewer praised “the level of care and service,” highlighting the expert guides and porters, as well as the delicious food and comfortable tents. Another noted how the guides carefully timed the ascent so they could reach the summit just before sunrise, making the experience even more memorable.
Both reviews emphasize the supportiveness of guides like Nas, who stayed with a trekker during the hardest part to ensure they made it to the top. Such attentiveness turns a challenging climb into a rewarding adventure.
Practical Tips for Future Trekkers
- Bring a hat, camera, rain gear, and a power bank to stay prepared for changing weather and capturing moments.
- Wear good hiking shoes and long pants suited for volcanic terrain.
- Be ready for an early start—layers and a headlamp are essential.
- Confirm pickup times and locations after booking to avoid confusion.
- Keep in mind that while the trek is challenging, it’s designed to be manageable for most physically fit travelers.
Who Should Consider This Trip?
This trek is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a taste of Mount Rinjani without committing to the full three-day ascent. It suits those who enjoy spectacular scenery, good food, and a well-supported hike. If you’re comfortable with a moderate to strenuous climb, this experience offers a great blend of challenge and comfort.
However, it’s not suitable for young children or older travelers over 70, given the physical demands. Also, if you’re looking for a luxury experience, this isn’t it—expect basic camping at the crater rim and some rugged terrain.
The Sum Up
The Mount Rinjani 2D/1N Second Summit trek offers explorers a superb window into Lombok’s volcanic beauty, with stunning views, hearty meals, and expert guidance throughout. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a shorter, yet still intense, adventure with a guaranteed sense of accomplishment at the summit.
You’ll love the delicious food and caring guides who go the extra mile, making the challenging ascent as smooth as possible. The breathtaking sunrise and panoramic vistas make every step worth it, creating memories that last long after you’ve descended.
For active travelers eager to see Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes without the full three-day commitment, this trek hits the sweet spot of challenge, comfort, and extraordinary scenery.
FAQ
Who is this trek suitable for?
It’s best for active travelers in good physical condition who want a manageable yet challenging ascent. Not suitable for children under 7 or those over 70.
What’s included in the price?
Guides, porters, food, drinking water, tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and trekking poles are included, making it a very convenient package.
What isn’t included?
Transfers after the trek, accommodation before the trek, personal gear like trekking shoes, and park entrance fees (IDR 200,000 per day) are extra.
How tough is the climb?
The ascent to the second summit is demanding — expect some steep sections and early mornings. It’s feasible for most in good shape, but not for complete beginners.
When do I start the trek?
Starting times depend on availability, but the tour generally begins early morning. Confirm pick-up details after booking.
What should I bring?
Essential gear includes hiking shoes, long pants, a hat, rain gear, a headlamp, camera, and a power bank.
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 planning.
What’s the highlight of this trek?
Most travelers rave about reaching the second summit at sunrise, offering panoramic views and a profound sense of achievement.
How long does the trek take?
The ascent to the second summit takes about two hours, with the total trek including descent roughly five hours on the second day.
This trek isn’t just about reaching a peak; it’s about experiencing Indonesia’s raw volcanic power and breathtaking landscapes. With good organization, excellent guides, and a manageable itinerary, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want adventure without overextending themselves.
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