Ascent Routes to Mount Rinjani

Map and ascent routes
Choose Sembalun or Senaru Ascent Routes

Dedicated trekkers might consider staying on Mount Rinjani for at least three nights, embarking on a trek that encompasses the crater rim, the lake shore, the absolute summit, among other highlights. Typically, these treks commence from Senaru or Sembalun, but recently, alternative routes have become available, such as Benang Stokel, Timbanuh, and Torean.

Senaru ascent route

This route is the most popular as it offers a (relatively) less demanding hike solely to the crater rim. Starting from Senaru village at an elevation of 600 meters, typically in the late morning or early afternoon, hikers embark on a six-hour journey to reach the crater rim before nightfall. The initial segment of the trek winds through a tropical rainforest.

Keep an eye out for the lutung, or black monkey, active in the trees during the late morning; they are quite elusive, unlike the common macaques known to congregate around rest areas in anticipation of food scraps. The trail ascends through POSII at 1,500 meters, emerges above the treeline at 2,000 meters (POSIII), and continues up a gravelly path to a campsite just below the crater rim at 2,600 meters. The final stretch to the crater rim lacks a defined path and involves a steep 45-degree incline. Beyond POS 3, there is a POS Extra, although it has largely disappeared, with any remnants likely used by porters for firewood.

If you still have energy to spare, you can undertake the challenging descent to the crater lake’s shores and soak in the hot springs. Confidence is key, as it involves a steep 600+ meter descent using handrails and ropes. Afterward, you return to Senaru by the same route. Local guides may say descending is quicker, but it really depends on the individual. For novices, patience is crucial; it can be disheartening to see porters effortlessly pass by, their loads balanced on one shoulder, wearing flip-flops or even barefoot. The descent from POS Extra to POS 3 can be treacherous in dry weather, with loose scree underfoot. The journey from POS 3 to POS 2 can last between 1.5 to 2 hours, as the savannah grasslands give way to the increasing humidity and heat of the tropical rainforest. A helpful tip: if you didn’t bring a trekking pole, ask your guides to fashion one from wood.

It’s invaluable for support during the descent, particularly when your legs are weary from the climb. An alternative is to continue to Plawangan II, where you can spend another night before attempting the summit. However, this route is not generally recommended from the Senaru side. For those aiming for the summit, it’s advisable to approach Plawangan II from Sembalun.

Sembalun ascent route

Beginning in the morning at the Rinjani Trek Centre in the village, the ascent to Plawangan II at 2,638 meters is estimated to take around 8 hours, passing through POSI (1,300 m), POSII (1,500 m), and POSIII (1,800 m). The starting altitude is 1,100 meters, which means there are no humid conditions to contend with. The first half, or more, of the trek is quite pleasant. The path winds through savannah grasslands, offering a breezy and relaxed journey with mild inclines and declines. The primary hindrance to watch out for is the cow dung left by the local villagers’ cows. The undulating hills and breathtaking vistas provide a welcome distraction from fatigue, a stark contrast to the dense tropical rainforest found on the Senaru route.

From POS 2 to POS 3, the ascent remains manageable. However, the real challenge on the Sembalun route lies between POS 3 and POS Extra, where the incline can reach a steep 50-degree gradient. This stretch may be particularly difficult for young children, as the steps are widely spaced. Despite the cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, which may suggest otherwise, it’s crucial to stay hydrated to ward off altitude sickness.

Interestingly, there’s even a vendor selling cold beverages for those in need. Camp overnight at this location and begin the summit attempt at 3 AM the following day. Adequate rest is essential, as the final ascent is a grueling climb of nearly 1,100 meters over challenging terrain.

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