Mount Rinjani Trek: What to Know Before You Climb
Mount Rinjani, standing at 3,726 meters, is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano and offers one of the most thrilling treks in Southeast Asia.
The Rinjani trek is famous for its challenging terrain, stunning crater lake views, and the breathtaking sunrises at one of the best vantage points in Indonesia. Whether you’re up for the full Mount Rinjani summit trek or prefer a shorter hike to camp at the crater rim, this adventure requires a bit of planning.
From understanding the difficulty level to packing the right gear, our guide will cover everything you need to know before climbing Mount Rinjani. While we don’t climb Mount Rinjani on the Lombok Loop, we can arrange your trek to the summit or crater rim before or after the Loop. Contact us for more information!
Rinjani Trekking Overview & Things to Know
As of the 2024/2025 trekking seasons, both the Mount Rinjani summit climb and the crater rim trek are open. Earthquakes in recent years have changed some routes, but key access points have been restored, allowing adventurers to experience one of Indonesia’s most iconic hikes.
Here’s a general overview of what you need to know before you embark on the journey up Mount Rinjani. Read on for an itinerary and tips for what to expect.
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What are the main routes for the Rinjani trek?
There are two main routes: Sembalun and Senaru. The Sembalun route is longer but has a gentler ascent, while the Senaru route is steeper and more challenging, offering a quicker but tougher climb.
Do I need a permit to trek Mount Rinjani?
Yes, a permit is required for trekking Mount Rinjani, costing around 150,000 IDR per day. Permits will be arranged for you by your trekking company. They obtain them at the Rinjani Trek Center.
Do I need a guide or porter for the trek?
Yes, hiring a guide is mandatory for safety reasons and to support the local communities. However, it’s recommended to climb Mount Rinjani with a reputable company. Porters are optional but highly recommended, especially for carrying heavy gear. Most tour operators include guides and porters in their packages.
When is the best time to trek Mount Rinjani?
The best time to trek Mount Rinjani is during the dry season, from April to November. Conditions are ideal for hiking during these months, with clearer skies and safer paths. During the rainy season (January 1 – March 31) Mount Rinjani National Park is closed for trekking for safety and restoration.
How long does the Mount Rinjani trek take?
The Mount Rinjani summit trek typically takes 3 days (can also be done in a difficult 2-day ascent), while the crater rim trek is usually done in 2 days. Both treks involve camping overnight on the rim or near the crater lake.
How difficult is the Mount Rinjani hike?
Climbing to the crater rim of Mount Rinjani is quite strenuous but anyone with a good level of health and physical fitness can do it. However the summit climb, which reaches 3,726 meters is far more physically demanding but doesn’t require any technical climbing skills (just great fitness).
How many people are typically in a trekking group?
Group sizes vary depending on the tour operator, but we recommend trekking with smaller groups (4-6 people) or arranging private treks for a more personalized and comfortable experience. In our experience of climbing ourselves, larger groups always offer a lower cost but can feel crowded.
Where do I need to stay before the climb?
We recommend staying in Senaru or staying in Sembalun (depending on your departure point) the night before you begin trekking, as typically your guide will depart very early to beat the heat in the lower elevation sections of the trek.
How Cold does it get on Mount Rinjani?
Mount Rinjani can get quite cold, especially at higher altitudes. During the day, temperatures range from 28–35˚C, but at night, campsites like Sembalun and Senaru Rim can drop to 8–10˚C, and near Segara Anak Lake, it’s around 10–15˚C. At the summit, temperatures can reach as low as 0–5˚C, so warm clothing is essential for your trek.
Trekking to Mount Rinjani Summit: Typical Itinerary (3 Days 2 Nights)
Day 1: Sembalun to Sembalun Crater Rim
Your trek begins after breakfast with a 45-minute drive to Sembalun Village.
After registration, you’ll start trekking through savannahs and grassy trails, reaching POS 3 by midday for lunch and a rest. The final leg is a challenging 3-hour uphill hike to Sembalun Crater Rim (2,639m), where you’ll camp for the night. Enjoy a stunning sunset from the crater rim before resting up for the summit push.
Distance: 10 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Summit Push & Descent to Segara Anak Lake
You’ll wake up early (2:30 a.m.) for the 3-hour trek to the Mount Rinjani summit (3,726m). The final ascent is steep and strenuous, but the reward is panoramic views of Lombok, Bali, Sumbawa, and the Segara Anak Lake.
After descending back to camp for breakfast, you’ll head down to Segara Anak Lake and the nearby hot springs. After lunch at the lake, you’ll hike up to Senaru Crater Rim for a second night of camping.
Summit Climb: Distance: 5 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Very difficult
Descent to Segara Anak: Distance: 3.4 km | Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Descent to Senaru Village
After enjoying sunrise and breakfast at the Senaru Crater Rim, you’ll start your descent through tropical forests towards Senaru Village. Along the way, you’ll pass by traditional rest stops before reaching the Rinjani Trekking Centre by midday.
Distance: 9.2 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking to Rinjani Crater Rim: Typical Itinerary
Day 1: Senaru Village to Senaru Crater Rim
After an early breakfast, you’ll begin your trek with a 45-minute drive to the National Park entrance for registration. The journey to the crater rim starts in dense jungle, where you may spot Lombok’s famous black monkeys.
You’ll stop at POS 2 for a cooked lunch before continuing through savannah-like terrain as the path steepens. The final stretch is challenging, but you’ll reach the crater rim (2,641m) in time to set up camp and enjoy a breathtaking sunset over Lake Anak.
Distance: 9.2 km | Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Descent to Senaru Village
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the caldera before enjoying a light breakfast. The descent back to Senaru takes about 4 hours, with stops along the way at the various POS checkpoints.
While the trail is less strenuous than the ascent, it’s often slippery due to loose dirt, so expect a few slips along the way! You’ll arrive at the Senaru trekking center by midday.
Distance: 9.2 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
What to Pack for Climbing Mount Rinjani
Packing for the Mount Rinjani trek requires careful consideration, as the weather can vary drastically between the base and the summit. Daytime temperatures in the lower elevations range from 28-35˚C, but as you ascend, the nights at camp drop to 8-10˚C, and the summit can be as cold as 0-5˚C.
With changing weather conditions and challenging terrain, it’s crucial to pack appropriately for both comfort and safety. Below is a comprehensive packing list to ensure you’re well-prepared for the journey.
Packing List:
- Warm Clothing: Thermal layers, a fleece jacket, and a down jacket for the cold temperatures at night and the summit.
- Waterproof Jacket: A rain jacket or poncho to handle sudden downpours, especially during shoulder seasons.
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: Proper ankle support is essential for the rocky and steep terrain, especially on the summit push.
- Headlamp: For the early morning summit hike, a headlamp is vital. Bring extra batteries.
- Hat & Gloves: To keep warm during the chilly nights and the summit trek.
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Essential for protection against the strong sun at high altitudes.
- Trekking Poles: Helpful for both the steep ascent and descent to save your knees and maintain balance.
- Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: You’ll need at least 2-3 liters of water per day. Most tour operators provide water refills.
- Snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or energy bars to keep you fueled during the hike.
- Personal Toiletries & Wet Wipes: As there are no showers on the trek, wet wipes will help you stay fresh.
- Sleeping Bag: While some tour operators provide sleeping bags, bringing your own ensures warmth and comfort.
- Camera/Phone with Power Bank: Capture the incredible views, but don’t forget a power bank for charging.
Note: Porters will carry all the essentials like food, tents, and cooking equipment, so you can focus on enjoying the trek without the added weight. They handle the logistics, allowing you to hike with just your personal items.
Where to Stay Near the Senaru Trailhead
Senaru is the most popular starting point for the Mount Rinjani trek, located about 2 hours from Senggigi and 3 hours from Kuta. It’s the best place to stay in Lombok before the trek.
This small village offers a range of accommodation options, from basic guesthouses and homestays to mid-range hotels with stunning views of the surrounding jungle and rice terraces. Staying in Senaru gives you a head start on your trek, while providing a quiet, peaceful base to relax before the climb.
- Rinjani Lodge (Luxury) – For those seeking a luxurious stay, Rinjani Lodge offers a stunning mountain backdrop and the ultimate in comfort. With two outdoor swimming pools and breakfast delivered to your room, this is the perfect place to relax before or after your trek.
- Rinjani Lighthouse (Mid-Range) – Nestled in the lush forests of Senaru, Rinjani Lighthouse is just a short walk from the famous Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. The bungalow-style rooms come with mosquito nets, hot showers, and cozy seating areas, offering a peaceful retreat.
- Dragonfly Senaru Lodge (Budget) – Dragonfly Senaru Lodge offers sweeping views of the Rinjani Volcano and surrounding landscapes, all at an affordable price. Named after the abundance of dragonflies fluttering through the gardens, this spot combines natural beauty with a laid-back vibe.
Where To Stay Near the Sembalun Trailhead
Sembalun, the other popular starting point for the Mount Rinjani trek, is located about 3 hours from Senggigi and offers a quieter, more remote atmosphere. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields, Sembalun is a great base to start your trek, offering a range of accommodation options from traditional cottages to guesthouses.
- Bukit Tiga Lima (Luxury) – Set in a prime location with unbeatable views of the surrounding rice fields, Bukit Tiga Lima is a great choice for those looking for a more luxurious stay. This 3-star hotel features unique triangular rooms, BBQ facilities, and breakfast included, making it a comfortable and scenic option.
- Radiya Guesthouse (Budget-Friendly Guesthouse) – Radiya Guesthouse is one of the best-value options in Sembalun, offering small but clean rooms with all the essentials. Guests enjoy unlimited free coffee and tea, plus a complimentary breakfast—perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
- Sembalun Kita Cottage (Cottage) – Sembalun Kita Cottage is nestled among the mountains, providing guests with panoramic views and comfortable accommodations. Featuring hot showers, free breakfast, and the option to stay in a 100-year-old traditional Indonesian house, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a blend of nature and culture.
What to Expect: Our Experience on the Mount Rinjani Trek
We’ve personally climbed Mount Rinjani, and with many of our team having worked as tour guides in Lombok for years, we can confidently say it’s a must-do adventure!
While the trek is definitely challenging, it’s not as difficult as some make it out to be, and the reward? Out-of-this-world views. In fact, we might be a bit biased, but we think the Mount Rinjani summit offers the best view in Southeast Asia—what do you think? Plus, it’s the perfect complement to the Lombok Loop!
Here’s some information about what to expect when trekking Mount Rinjani, based on our experience.
Trail Conditions
The Mount Rinjani trek offers a mix of terrains, from dense jungle to open savannah and rocky volcanic slopes.
Over the years, we’ve noticed many changes to the trails due to devastating earthquakes and landslides. Luckily, the National Parks organizations have repaired the trails, with both routes now being much more accessible and safe than they used to be.
The first sections of the trail are shaded and relatively gentle, but the ascent to the summit is steep, with loose scree and sharp rocks.
Hiking boots with good grip are essential, and trekking poles are highly recommended for balance, especially during the descent. Expect a mix of steep climbs and flatter sections, with stunning views to keep you motivated.
Campsites
Campsites on the trek are basic but scenic, offering incredible views from the crater rim. Remember– porters need to carry up all the tents and living equipment, so don’t expect a glamping setup!
Most campsites are set up by your guides and porters, and tents are provided with your tour. It can get very cold at night (around 8-10°C), so bring warm layers. The best spots are often claimed early, so arriving at camp ahead of larger groups can make a difference. Make sure to enjoy the sunset views over the crater lake and volcanic landscape!
Food
Your porters will prepare all meals during the trek, which typically include simple but hearty Indonesian dishes like fried rice, noodles, and fresh fruit. Portions are generous, and vegetarian options are usually available if requested ahead of time.
We recommend all our travelers to bring some extra snacks for energy on the trail—things like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit are great for the tougher sections. Hydration is also key, and while your guides will provide water, you will want to bring a reusable bottle or hydration pack.
Toilets & Amenities
Toilets are very basic, often just squat-style facilities at campsites or along the trail. It’s a good idea to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, just in case. There are no showers, so wet wipes are useful for staying fresh. Don’t expect much in terms of amenities—this is a true wilderness experience, so come prepared to rough it.
Sunrise at the Rinjani Summit
Reaching the summit before sunrise is one of the most magical parts of the trek. You’ll start your climb in the early hours (around 2:30 a.m.), using headlamps to navigate the rocky terrain.
The final ascent is tough, but when you reach the summit, the views make it all worth it. Watching the sun rise over Lombok, Bali, and Sumbawa, with Segara Anak Lake below, is truly unforgettable—don’t forget your camera!
Weather On Mount Rinjani
Weather on Mount Rinjani can vary significantly between the base and the summit. Daytime temperatures range from 28-35°C in the lower areas, but at night and at higher altitudes, it can drop to 0-5°C at the summit and around 8-10°C at the crater rim campsites.
Rain is common during the shoulder seasons, so bring a waterproof jacket. The dry season (April to November) offers the best conditions for trekking on Mount Rinjani, but always be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Discover More Things to Do in Lombok
Remember, we can help you arrange your Mount Rinjani trekking experience with transport, accommodation, professional guides, and all at a cheaper price than you’ll find on Viator, TripAdvisor, or GetYourGuide 😉
However Lombok isn’t just about trekking—this island is packed with incredible beaches, stunning waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints waiting to be explored.
Don’t Miss: Whether you want to relax on white sands or chase hidden waterfalls through lush jungles, Lombok has it all. But for the ultimate adventure, join us on the Lombok Loop!
Departing from Senggigi every Thursday, our fun team of like-minded travelers will show you the best of the island—think the Ha Giang Loop of Vietnam, (but we think it’s even better!).
