Indonesia — Mataram
Ascend Mount Rinjani's volcanic slopes to its dramatic Crater Rim (Plawangan) in Indonesia. This 20km, 2-3 day route is a demanding traverse through lush rainforests and stark volcanic terrain, culminating in breathtaking panoramas. A truly iconic Indonesian mountaineering experience.
Distance: 20.0 km
Elevation Gain: 2000 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 2-3 days
Mount Rinjani, or Gunung Rinjani, is an active stratovolcano that dominates the landscape of Lombok, Indonesia. Rising to a staggering 3,726 metres, it is the second-highest volcano in the country and a site of profound spiritual significance for both the local Sasak people and Balinese Hindus. The trek to the Crater Rim (Plawangan) is one of Southeast Asia's most iconic mountaineering challenges, offering a journey through diverse ecological zones—from lush tropical rainforests teeming with macaques to high-altitude savannahs and, finally, the stark, dramatic volcanic rock of the caldera edge. Standing on the rim, trekkers are rewarded with a panoramic view that is arguably unparalleled in the region: the turquoise waters of Lake Segara Anak (Child of the Sea) nestled within the caldera, the active sub-cone of Gunung Baru Jari smoking in the centre, and the distant silhouette of Bali’s Mount Agung shimmering on the horizon across the Lombok Strait.
The Mount Rinjani Crater Rim trek is a masterclass in vertical geography. Unlike many alpine treks that offer gradual gradients, Rinjani is a relentless ascent that tests the limits of endurance. The journey typically begins at either the Senaru trailhead (600 m) or the Sembalun trailhead (1,100 m). The Senaru route, often preferred for those focusing specifically on the Crater Rim, takes trekkers through a dense, humid canopy of primary rainforest. This section of the trail is a sensory immersion into the tropics, where the air is thick with the scent of damp earth and the calls of the black ebony leaf monkey. As the elevation increases, the jungle thins, giving way to montane forests and eventually the open, windswept grasslands of the upper slopes.
The physical challenge is significant. Trekkers must navigate a 2,000-metre elevation gain over a relatively short horizontal distance, often involving steep, root-entwined paths and loose volcanic scree. However, the reward for this exertion is a landscape of cosmic proportions. The Rinjani caldera is a massive 6 km by 8.5 km oval, created by cataclysmic eruptions that have reshaped the island over millennia. The sight of the sun setting over the caldera, casting long shadows across the emerald lake and the smoking cone of Baru Jari, is a transformative experience. It is a place where the raw power of the Earth is visible and palpable, a stark reminder of the geological forces that continue to shape the Indonesian archipelago.
Beyond the physical and geological, the trek is a cultural odyssey. You will walk alongside local porters who carry immense loads—often up to 30 kg—using traditional bamboo poles balanced across their shoulders. Their agility and strength are legendary, and their presence is an integral part of the Rinjani experience. They are the guardians of the mountain, possessing an intimate knowledge of its moods and spirits. For the Sasak people, Rinjani is the "Seat of the Gods," and the trek is as much a pilgrimage as it is a recreational pursuit. This blend of extreme physical challenge, breathtaking natural beauty, and deep cultural resonance makes the Rinjani Crater Rim one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in the world.
The geological history of Mount Rinjani is defined by one of the most significant volcanic events in human history. In 1257, the Samalas volcano (the precursor to the modern Rinjani complex) erupted with such violence that it is believed to have triggered a "Little Ice Age" across the Northern Hemisphere. The eruption was several times larger than the famous 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, ejecting massive amounts of tephra into the stratosphere and leaving behind the enormous caldera that trekkers visit today. This event fundamentally altered the topography of Lombok and left a lasting mark on the global climate record, found in ice cores from Greenland to Antarctica.
Culturally, Mount Rinjani is the spiritual anchor of Lombok. For the Sasak people, the mountain is a sacred site where the spirits of ancestors reside. Every year, thousands of pilgrims make the journey to the crater lake, Segara Anak, to perform the "Mulang Pakelem" ceremony. This ritual involves the offering of gold and other valuables to the lake to ensure harmony between the human and spirit worlds and to pray for rain and fertility for the island's crops. The lake's name, meaning "Child of the Sea," reflects the belief that the lake is a miniature version of the ocean, and its waters are considered to have healing properties.
The Balinese Hindus also hold Rinjani in high esteem, regarding it as one of the three most sacred mountains in the region, alongside Mount Agung in Bali and Mount Semeru in Java. The mountain is often depicted in local art and folklore as a place of refuge and enlightenment. During the colonial era, Dutch explorers and scientists began documenting the mountain's unique flora and fauna, but it wasn't until the late 20th century that Rinjani became a destination for international adventure tourism. Today, the Rinjani National Park (Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani) manages the area, balancing the needs of conservation, spiritual practice, and the growing trekking industry.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The trekking season on Mount Rinjani is strictly dictated by the Indonesian monsoon cycle. The park is generally open from early April to late December, coinciding with the dry season. During this window, the weather is most predictable, though "dry" is a relative term in the tropics. Even in the peak of summer, afternoon rain showers are common on the lower slopes, and the summit area can be shrouded in mist.
April to June: This is the "green season." Following the heavy rains of the monsoon, the landscape is incredibly lush. The waterfalls are at their most powerful, and the air is crisp and clear. This is an excellent time for photography, as the vegetation is vibrant and the dust levels are low. However, the trails can be slippery and muddy, requiring careful footwork.
July to September: This is the peak trekking season. The weather is at its driest, and the views are most consistent. However, this is also when the mountain is most crowded. The trails can become dusty, and the campsites at the rim can be busy. Temperatures at the Crater Rim during these months can drop significantly at night, often reaching 5°C or lower, despite the tropical heat at the base.
October to December: The transition back to the wet season begins. While trekking is still possible, the likelihood of heavy afternoon downpours increases. The mountain becomes quieter as the crowds thin out, offering a more solitary experience for those willing to brave the potential for wet gear. By late December, the park authorities usually close the trails due to the high risk of landslides and dangerous weather conditions.
January to March: The park is officially closed. During the height of the monsoon, the steep volcanic slopes become unstable, and the heavy rains make the river crossings and narrow ridge paths life-threatening. Attempting to trek during this time is illegal and extremely dangerous.
Day 1: Senaru Village to Senaru Crater Rim
Day 2: Senaru Crater Rim to Senaru Village
Important Notes:
Trekking Mount Rinjani is a serious undertaking that requires significant physical preparation. The 2,000-metre ascent on Day 1 is equivalent to climbing the stairs of the Burj Khalifa nearly three times in a single day, often on uneven and steep terrain. Cardiovascular training, such as hiking with a weighted pack, stair climbing, or long-distance running, should begin at least two months before your trip. Mental resilience is equally important, as the heat, humidity, and steep gradients can be demoralising.
Logistically, most trekkers base themselves in the villages of Senaru or Sembalun the night before the trek. Senaru is the more developed hub, offering a range of guesthouses and small hotels, as well as access to the spectacular Sindang Gila and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. It is essential to coordinate your booking with a reputable trekking company. These agencies handle the mandatory national park permits, guide and porter assignments, and transport from Lombok International Airport or the ferry ports. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak months of July and August.
Accommodation on the Mount Rinjani Crater Rim trek is exclusively in the form of tented campsites. There are no permanent huts or lodges on the mountain itself. Your trekking agency will provide all the necessary camping gear.
Campsite Facilities:
What is NOT Provided:
Booking and Costs:
Access to Mount Rinjani is strictly regulated by the Rinjani National Park Authority (TNGR). All trekkers are required to have a valid permit, which is now managed through an online booking system called "e-Rinjani." This system was implemented to control the number of visitors on the mountain and to ensure that all trekkers are registered for safety and conservation purposes.
Booking Process:
Permit Costs:
Guide and Porter Requirements:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Mount Rinjani Crater Rim (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Mount Rinjani Crater Rim, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Lombok offers a wealth of experiences beyond the slopes of Rinjani. Consider these activities to round out your trip:
Volcanic Activity: Mount Rinjani is an active volcano. The sub-cone, Baru Jari, erupted as recently as 2016. The National Park Authority monitors volcanic activity closely in conjunction with the Indonesian Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG). Always check the current alert level before starting your trek. If the volcano shows signs of increased activity, the park will be closed immediately.
Altitude Sickness: While the Crater Rim is at 2,641 m, altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness) can still affect some trekkers, especially given the rapid ascent from sea level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness. The best prevention is to stay hydrated, climb at a steady pace, and inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell. The only cure for worsening AMS is descent.
Terrain and Weather: The trails on Rinjani are steep and can be dangerous. The 2018 earthquakes caused significant landslides, and while the main trails have been cleared and rerouted, some sections remain narrow with steep drop-offs. Heavy rain can make the volcanic soil extremely slippery. Always follow your guide's instructions and stay on the marked paths.
Dehydration and Heat: The combination of tropical humidity and intense physical exertion makes dehydration a real risk. Drink at least 3–4 litres of water per day. Your porters will provide water, but it is your responsibility to drink it. Electrolyte powders are a valuable addition to your kit.
Hypothermia: It is a common mistake to assume that because Lombok is tropical, the mountain will be warm. At 2,600 m, the temperature can drop to near freezing, especially with wind chill on the rim. Ensure you have adequate warm layers and a dry set of clothes to change into once you reach camp.
Segara Anak Lake: For those on a 3-day or 4-day itinerary, the descent into the caldera to the shores of Segara Anak is the highlight. The lake is 230 metres deep and filled with fish (mostly tilapia and carp), which the porters often catch for dinner. The reflection of the crater walls in the still morning water is a sight of profound peace.
Aik Kalak Hot Springs: Located just a short walk from the lake campsite, these natural thermal springs are believed to have medicinal properties. Soaking your sore muscles in the warm, mineral-rich water while looking up at the towering crater walls is one of the great rewards of the longer Rinjani treks.
Gunung Baru Jari: While you cannot climb the active sub-cone itself, the 3-day trek takes you close to its base. Seeing the "New Mountain" (which emerged within the caldera of the old one) is a vivid lesson in geology and the ongoing birth of the Indonesian islands.
The "7 Hills of Regret": On the Sembalun route, the final approach to the rim involves a series of seven steep hills. They are named for the mental toll they take on trekkers who think they are "almost there" only to see another ridge appearing. Conquering these hills is a rite of passage for Rinjani trekkers.
Mount Rinjani faces a significant waste management crisis. The popularity of the trek has led to an accumulation of plastic waste and food scraps at the campsites. As a visitor, you have a moral and environmental responsibility to minimise your impact on this sacred landscape.
Leave No Trace Principles on Rinjani:
