Hi, I'm Sam, a guide for Mount Rinjani hikes. Recently, I had the pleasure of leading a truly unforgettable 3-day trek with a couple from Denmark, Aske and Marya, who were celebrating their honeymoon!
Our adventure began in Sembalun Village, located at the foot of Mount Rinjani. Rinjani, towering at 3,726 meters (12,224 feet), is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia. Lush forests cloak its slopes, leading up to a dramatic caldera rim overlooking the turquoise Segara Anak Lake, a volcanic crater lake.
After ensuring all preparations were complete – food, camping gear, porters, and park entrance tickets – we embarked on our journey. The initial trek from Sembalun to basecamp involved passing through four designated posts. The trail gently ascends through cool mountain air, offering glimpses of the majestic peak as we progressed.
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The total distance from Sembalun to basecamp is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles). The initial leg to Post 1 takes around 1.5 hours, with a gradual incline. The trail then gets steeper between Post 2 and Post 3, taking about an hour. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking. Look out for unique flora and fauna along the way, as Mount Rinjani is a biodiverse hotspot.
By late afternoon, we reached the crater rim at an altitude of around 2,600 meters (8,500 feet). Here, the porters had set up camp for Aske and Marya, offering stunning vistas of Segara Anak Lake nestled within the caldera.
As we enjoyed the scenery, I shared stories about Mount Rinjani's rich history. The local Sasak people revere Rinjani as a sacred mountain, and its slopes hold cultural significance. The porters then prepared a delicious dinner, fueling us for the summit push the next day.
At 2 am, we woke up for the summit ascent. However, Marya wisely decided to rest at the campsite, knowing they would descend to the lake afterwards. Aske and I embarked on the challenging summit climb. The next 3 hours were strenuous, with loose volcanic scree and steep inclines testing our endurance.
Finally, just before sunrise, we reached the summit – a triumphant moment! At this lofty height, we were rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Lombok and beyond. We captured breathtaking photos as the first rays of sunlight painted the sky with vibrant hues.
After soaking in the unforgettable sunrise spectacle, we descended back to basecamp, taking about 1.5 hours. Reunited at the campsite, Marya was thrilled to see Aske back after conquering the peak.
Following a hearty breakfast, we began our trek down to Segara Anak Lake. The descent involved navigating steep, rocky paths, but the porters' expertise and the ever-present beauty of the landscape made it manageable. After roughly 3 hours, we reached the shores of the mesmerizing lake, a welcome sight.
Segara Anak Lake itself is a unique feature. You can take a dip in the nearby hot springs, naturally heated by the volcanic activity. Imagine relaxing in steaming waters surrounded by dramatic scenery – a truly rejuvenating experience!
Our second day continued with a hike to Senaru Crater Rim on the opposite side of the caldera. The terrain was challenging, but the reward was phenomenal. After 3 hours, we reached the rim, offering a completely different perspective of Mount Rinjani and the lake. Here, we camped for the second night, basking in the unparalleled views under a blanket of stars.
The final day involved a descent back to Senaru Village. The 5-hour trek took us through lush rainforests with potentially muddy trails, so proper footwear is crucial. Finally, we reached the village, marking the successful completion of our adventure.
Exhausted but exhilarated, we celebrated our accomplishment over lunch near the trailhead. Aske and Marya generously tipped the porters and me, expressing their immense satisfaction with the entire experience.
This honeymoon trek on Mount Rinjani was a perfect blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty. It's a testament to the transformative power of mountain experiences, and I'm grateful to have been a part of Aske and Marya's unforgettable adventure
Are you ready to embark on your own life-changing Rinjani adventure? Contact me today and let's create unforgettable memories!
Sembalun Sajang, East of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, 83656