The Mount Rinjani Trek

The Rinjani Trek Ecotouring Program is creating jobs, enhancing livelihoods and helping to protect one of Indonesia’s most spectacular natural environments.

Map of Lombok Island

Spanning the Gunung Rinjani National Park (Mt. Rinjani National Park), which lies within the major transition zone (Wallaceae) where the flora and fauna of Southeast Asia makes a dramatic transition into that which is typical of Australasia, the community based activities are focused on the Rinjani Trek Centre in Senaru. The park has a rich variety of plants and animals, although they can be hard to spot due to the terrain and rainforest cover.

At 3726m it is the second highest volcano in Indonesia, part of the infamous ring of fire that encircles the basin of the Pacific. Within the crater is the spectacular Segara Anak lake and the still – active volcano Gunung Baru (2,363m).

Segara Anak Lake within the crater

For the people of Lombok, Sasak and Balinese alike, the volcano is revered as a sacred place and the abode of Gods. Within the spectacular crater, the Segara Anak Lake is destination of many pilgrims who place offerings in nearby hot spring.

Over 38 villages surround Mt. Rinjani and there are many routes up the mountain, but the main access is from Senaru in the north and Sembalun Lawang to the east. The challenging three-day Rinjani Trek route from Senaru to the crater rim (Plawangan), down to the stunning crater lake then on to Sembalun Lawang is just sensational. Those heading for the summit usually prefer to start in Sembalun Lawang.

Rinjani trekking routes

Developed with New Zealand Government assistance since 1999, the Rinjani Trek Ecotourism Program is one of the world’s leading examples of how tourism can really benefit the communities and environments on which it depends. The Program offers opportunities to guides, porters, handicraft makers, trail maintainers and many others, while at the same time making sure that locals and visitors are fully aware of the value of their environment.

Established in 1982, John’s Adventures is run by a very friendly chap called John Maray, chairman of the Senaru Trek Organizer Association, and the first person ever to take trekkers up Rinjani mountain. So, you really won’t find yourself a better guide. John can arrange 1-4 day trekking trips, even for families with young children. Most of the guides and trekkers are member of John’s family, who, having lived in Senaru Village all of their lives, know this trek like the back of their hands. John insists on using only the highest quality trekking equipment and prides himself on providing personalized, professional and friendly service.

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