Summit in Two Days: An Unforgettable Rinjani Challenge from Sembalun

Experience the raw beauty and exhilarating challenge of Mount Rinjani on our focused 2-Day, 1-Night Summit Trek. Designed for moderately fit explorers, this adventure begins in the charming Sembalun Village, nestled on the eastern slopes of the majestic volcano. From here, we'll embark on a captivating ascent, traversing through verdant savannas and gradually climbing towards the dramatic landscapes that define Rinjani's allure. Our initial trek will lead us through picturesque scenery, offering glimpses of the breathtaking vistas that await. By late afternoon, we'll aim to reach the impressive Sembalun Crater Rim, where we'll set up camp and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views, particularly as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Prepare for the main event on day two: an early wake-up call under a blanket of stars to embark on the final, exhilarating push to the coveted summit of Mount Rinjani. This challenging yet incredibly rewarding climb will culminate in an unforgettable sunrise experience from the very top, offering unparalleled views across Lombok and beyond.

Itinerary for your 2-day, 1-night summit trek, including your arrival day:

Day 0: Saturday, May 3rd (Arrival Day)

  • Morning/Afternoon:

    • Arrival in Lombok: Upon your arrival at Lombok Praya Airport (LOP) or your designated port (Lembar, Bangsal Harbor, Teluk Kodek), our representative will be there to greet you with a sign displaying your name.

    • Warm Welcome & Transfer to Senaru: You'll be warmly welcomed and assisted with your luggage. Enjoy a comfortable and scenic private transfer to your accommodation in Senaru, Villa Bambu Rinjani (or similar). The journey will offer glimpses of Lombok's beautiful landscapes and local life.

    • Check-in and Relax: Arrive at your lodge, check in, and take some time to settle down and relax after your journey.

  • Late Afternoon (Optional Activity, Time Permitting):

    • Waterfall Excursion: If your arrival allows for it, and you're interested, we can arrange an optional excursion to the stunning Sindang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls. Your guide will accompany you on this visit.

    • Sindang Gile: Witness the impressive multi-tiered cascade of Sindang Gile, a relatively easily accessible waterfall perfect for photos and enjoying the refreshing mist.

    • Tiu Kelep: For a more immersive experience, venture to Tiu Kelep Waterfall. This involves a short trek, possibly including wading through a shallow stream, to reach the powerful and majestic falls.

    • Return to Senaru: After your waterfall adventure, you'll be transferred back to your lodge in Senaru.

  • Evening:

    • Trekking Briefing: Your experienced Rinjani trekking guide will meet you at your lodge. They will provide a detailed briefing about your upcoming 2-day, 1-night summit trek. This will cover the trek route, estimated timings, what to expect on the trail, safety procedures, necessary equipment, and an opportunity for you to ask any questions.

    • Gear Check: Your guide will also likely review your trekking gear to ensure you are adequately prepared for the climb.

    • Dinner: Enjoy a hearty dinner at your lodge or a local restaurant in Senaru, fueling up for your trek.

    • Early Rest: It's recommended to get an early and restful night's sleep to prepare for the early start tomorrow.

Day 1: (Senaru - Sembalun Crater Rim)

  • Morning (Early Start):

    • Wake Up and Breakfast: Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodge.

    • Transfer to Sembalun: You will be transferred by private vehicle to the Sembalun trailhead (approximately 1-1.5 hours). Sembalun offers a different and often more gradual ascent route.

    • Registration at Rinjani National Park: Upon arrival at the Sembalun gate, your guide will handle the necessary registration procedures and park entrance fees.

  • Trekking to Sembalun Crater Rim:

    • Start the Ascent: Begin your trek, accompanied by your guide and porters who will carry your camping equipment and some food supplies.

    • Post 1 & Post 2: The initial part of the trek involves traversing open grasslands and gentle slopes, passing through Pos 1 (Pemantauan) and Pos 2 (Tengengean). Take breaks as needed to hydrate and enjoy the views.

    • Post 3 (Pada Balong): Continue your ascent to Pos 3, where you'll likely stop for a longer break and lunch prepared by your porters.

    • The Climb to Sembalun Crater Rim: After lunch, the trail becomes steeper as you make your way towards the Sembalun Crater Rim (Plawangan Sembalun). The views during this section are increasingly spectacular.

    • Arrival at Sembalun Crater Rim: Upon reaching the Sembalun Crater Rim (around 2,639 meters above sea level), you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Rinjani caldera, including the stunning Segara Anak Lake, the active volcano Gunung Baru Jari, and the surrounding landscapes.

    • Camp Setup: Your porters will set up camp here.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy the Sunset: Witness a magnificent sunset over the caldera from the Sembalun Crater Rim – a truly unforgettable experience.

    • Dinner: Enjoy a well-deserved dinner prepared by your porters at the campsite.

    • Briefing for Summit Attempt: Your guide will provide a briefing about the plan for the early morning summit attempt.

    • Rest: Get an early night's sleep to prepare for the challenging climb to the summit.

Day 2: (Summit Attempt - Descent - Departure)

  • Early Morning (Summit Push):

    • Wake Up (Around 2:00 - 3:00 AM): You'll be woken up very early for the summit attempt. Enjoy a light snack and hot drink before starting.

    • Ascent to the Summit (Gunung Rinjani): Begin the challenging trek to the summit (3,726 meters above sea level). This part of the trek is steep and involves loose volcanic scree, requiring focus and stamina. Your guide will lead the way.

    • Sunrise at the Summit: Reaching the summit at sunrise is the ultimate reward. Witness the spectacular panoramic views as the sun rises over Lombok, neighboring islands, and the vast ocean. Capture this incredible moment.

  • Descent:

    • Descend to Sembalun Crater Rim: Carefully descend back down to the Sembalun Crater Rim for a well-deserved breakfast.

    • Continue Descent to Sembalun Gate: After breakfast and packing up the campsite, begin your descent down the Sembalun route. This can be challenging on the knees, so trekking poles are highly recommended.

    • Lunch en Route: You'll likely have lunch at one of the designated rest stops along the way.

    • Arrival at Sembalun Gate: You'll arrive back at the Sembalun trailhead.

  • Afternoon:

    • Transfer to Your Next Destination: Your private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to your next destination in Lombok (e.g., Senggigi, the south coast, or the airport) based on your onward travel plans.