Your Guide to Climbing Mount Rinjani
Mount Rinjani is a truly epic adventure. Towering at 3,726m, this mighty volcano in Lombok will test your legs, lungs, and willpower. But trust us, the views are worth every step.
Think misty crater rims, sunrise summits, and a turquoise lake hidden in the clouds. You’ll sweat, you’ll ache, but you’ll also feel like a legend when you reach the top. And if you’re a beginner at overnight hiking, this is a great summit to tackle.
Ready for the challenge? Here’s everything you need to know to conquer Rinjani.
Where is Mount Rinjani?
Mount Rinjani towers over the Indonesian island of Lombok, standing at 3,726 metres (12,224 feet). It’s part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano.
You’ll find it in the north of Lombok, which sits next to Bali in the Sunda Archipelago.
Getting there usually involves a flight to Lombok International Airport, followed by a drive to the base of the mountain.
What’s so Special about Climbing Mount Rinjani?
Mount Rinjani isn’t just another volcano – it’s a breathtaking mix of challenge, culture, and stunning scenery.
The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from grassy savannahs to volcanic ash and rocky ridges. One of the biggest highlights is Segara Anak, a brilliant blue crater lake where locals come to fish and pray.
For the Sasak people and Balinese Hindus, Rinjani is a sacred place. Many Indonesians make a pilgrimage here, especially after Ramadan.
How Hard is it to Climb Mount Rinjani?
Don’t let the relatively short distances fool you – hiking Rinjani is tough.
The first day alone involves ascending over 1,000 metres, and the final kilometre to the summit takes around three hours. The terrain is loose volcanic ash, meaning for every three steps you take, you’ll slide back two.
It’s like trekking through deep sand, making progress slow and exhausting.
Most treks take at least two days and one night, but a popular itinerary spans three days and two nights.
Being physically and mentally prepared is key. If you’re new to mountain trekking, warming up with hikes like Mount Batukaru (2,276m) or Mount Batur in Bali can help get your legs ready.
When is the Best Time to Climb Mount Rinjani?
The best time to climb Rinjani is during the dry season, from April to October. The trails are open, the views are clear, and the risk of landslides is lower.
The mountain closes during the rainy season because the paths become dangerously slippery.
If you want to avoid the crowds, steer clear of July, August, and the period just after Ramadan. During these peak times, locals flock to Rinjani, and the government caps the number of climbers at 400 per day.
It’s best to book early, especially if you’re planning to visit between late April and early May.
For a quieter experience, consider trekking in June, September, or October – just be prepared for slightly more unpredictable weather.
Climbing Mount Rinjani: Routes to the Summit
Mount Rinjani has two main routes: Sembalun and Senaru.
If you want to reach the summit, the Sembalun Route is the way to go. Most hikers start from Sembalun Village, climb to the summit, and descend via the Senaru Route. This way, you don’t have to backtrack, and you get to experience the crater lake and hot springs along the way.
Some trekkers choose to start from Senaru, but many only go as far as the crater rim without attempting the summit.
If you’re after the full Rinjani experience, starting with Sembalun is the best strategy. Here’s what your hike would look like.
Day One: Sembalun to the Campsite
- Distance: 7km / 4.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,483m
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
The journey begins with registration at the Mount Rinjani National Park office and a quick health check.
The first few hours take you through open savannah, with rolling hills and plenty of sunshine. This stretch isn’t steep, but the heat (25-30°C) makes it tougher than it looks.
After lunch at Pos 2, the terrain starts to change. The trees get taller, the air gets cooler, and the climb gets steeper.
From Pos 3 to the campsite is a short but intense 2.5km climb, which can take up to three hours. If you’re quick, you’ll make it before sunset and enjoy amazing views.
Day Two: Summit Push and Crater Lake
- Distance: 6.5km / 4 miles
- Elevation Gain & Loss: 1,087m up, 1,265m down
- Hiking Time: 10-11 hours
Summit day starts early – around 2-3 AM.
The final kilometre is brutal. You’re climbing on loose volcanic ash, which means three steps forward, two steps back.
It’s exhausting, but reaching the 3,726m summit in time for sunrise makes it all worth it. Expect freezing temperatures (as low as 5°C) and strong winds at the top.
After an hour of enjoying the views, you’ll descend back to camp for breakfast and a rest. Then it’s another 90-minute trek down to Segara Anak, the stunning crater lake. Here, you can swim, relax, or soak in the hot springs before lunch.
If your group has the energy, you’ll continue climbing up to Senaru Crater Rim (2,600m). This section is only 2.5km but very steep, taking around three hours.
If you don’t do this climb on Day 2, you’ll face a much longer descent on the final day.
Day Three: Descent to Senaru Village
- Distance: 5.5km / 3.4 miles
- Elevation Loss: 1,860m
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
The final day is all about the descent. If you camped at Senaru Crater Rim, it’s a long but manageable 2,000m drop to Senaru Village.
The first section is steep and rocky, but eventually, you enter the jungle, where the path becomes slippery and humid.
After a mid-morning break at Pos 2, the trail winds down through dense rainforest before finally emerging at Senaru Village.
By the end, your legs will feel like jelly, but the sense of achievement makes every step worth it!
Climbing Mount Rinjani: Questions and Considerations
Ready to tackle Mount Rinjani? Here are a few important things you’ll need to know.
Accommodation on Mount Rinjani
There are no hotels or lodges on Mount Rinjani – you’ll be camping under the stars.
Trekkers usually stay at Sembalun Crater Rim on the first night and Senaru Crater Rim or by the crater lake on the second night. Expect basic but comfortable setups with blow-up mattresses, sleeping bags, and tents carried by porters.
There are no toilets on the mountain, so a trek that provides a private toilet tent is a game-changer.
Be prepared for basic wilderness camping, but also enjoy the perks – delicious meals cooked by your team and some of the most breathtaking sunrise views you’ll ever see.
How to Get to Mount Rinjani
The easiest way to get to Mount Rinjani is by flying into Lombok International Airport, which has direct flights from Bali, Jakarta, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. From the airport, it’s about a 2-3 hour drive to Sembalun or Senaru, where most treks start.
If you’re coming from Bali, you can fly (30 minutes) or take a fast boat to Lombok (90 minutes from Amed to Bangsal).
Avoid the slow ferry unless you fancy a six-hour ride. Many travellers combine Rinjani with other volcano hikes like Mount Agung on Bali, making for an epic adventure.
Do You Need a Guide to Climb Mount Rinjani?
Yes, guides are mandatory.
Rinjani National Park requires all trekkers to hike with an accredited guide for safety reasons.
While some people have managed to sneak in solo, it’s not worth the risk. The terrain is tough, weather conditions can change fast, and the altitude can be challenging.
Instead, book an organised trek with guides and porters. They’ll carry your food, water, and tents, leaving you free to focus on the climb.
Plus, having local experts makes the experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
What Gear Do You Need to Climb Mount Rinjani?
Packing for Rinjani is tricky because of huge temperature changes. It can be 30°C at the base, freezing at the summit, and wet or windy at times. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Daypack (30-40L) – Big enough for water, snacks, and layers
- Hiking boots – Worn-in and comfortable. Choosing the best hiking boots will make your climb infinitely more enjoyable.
- Warm layers – Fleece jacket, possibly a down jacket, thermals for camp
- Waterproof jacket & trousers – Essential for rain and wind
- Sun protection – Hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen
- Light camp shoes – Flip-flops or sandals
- Swimsuit – For the hot springs at the crater lake
Your tour operator should provide a full kit list, but these essentials will keep you comfortable.
The key? Dress in layers – you’ll be sweating one minute and shivering the next!
Wrapping Up
Climbing Rinjani is tough, breathtaking, and totally unforgettable. You’ll battle steep trails, shiver at the summit, and maybe even question your life choices halfway up.
But once you stand above the clouds, watching the sunrise over Indonesia, you’ll know it was all worth it.
So pack your boots, grab a guide, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Rinjani is waiting – are you up for it?
Looking for more fun while you’re in Indonesia? Check out our complete guide to surfing in Bali.
