I just got back from conquering Mount Rinjani and OMG, what a ride! My legs are still sore, my camera's full of insane photos, and my heart? Overflowing with joy and pride. Rinjani isn't just another mountain. It's a full-blown adventure that pushes your limits, makes you question your sanity halfway through, then rewards you with the most jaw-dropping views you've ever seen in your life. But hey if this is your first time climbing Rinjani, you better not go in blind. I'm spilling 7 essential tips every first-timer needs to know to survive (and enjoy!) this wild journey. Ready to prep for your own epic Rinjani story? Let's gooo!
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1. Train Your Body AND Mind – This Ain't a Casual Walk!
Let me be straight with you: Rinjani is NO JOKE. It's the second-highest volcano in Indonesia at 3,726 meters. You'll face sun-scorched savannahs, steep forest trails, and soul-crushing sandy slopes near the summit. You need at least 2 weeks of prep: Jog or walk uphill daily Do stair climbs (seriously, they help!) Train your mindset don't underestimate how mentally tough this can get It's not about being the fastest. It's about being mentally ready to keep going when your body wants to quit.
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2. Pick the Right Time – Don't Get Soaked!
Please, for the love of your dry socks, don't hike Rinjani during the rainy season (November to March). You'll be wet, cold, and miserable. Go between May and October. I went in June clear skies, cool air, and the sunrise? Chef's kiss. Zero regrets!
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3. Never Hike Alone – Bring Your Adventure Buddy!
Hiking Rinjani solo sounds cool until you're stuck with cramps in the middle of a forest with zero signal. Trust me—bring at least one travel buddy. You'll need someone to laugh with, cry with, and share snacks when morale is low. My squad? Four crazy friends. We hyped each other up the whole way and took turns dragging each other up the crater rim
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4. Bring Someone Experienced – It's a Game Changer
Tag along with someone who's done Rinjani before. They'll know when to slow down, where the best rest spots are, and how to deal with unexpected stuff (like crazy wind or summit panic). I had one friend who was a Rinjani veteran—and wow, he was basically our unofficial guide. Thanks to him, we made it to the summit without a meltdown!
5. Hire a Porter & Guide – You're Not a Superhero
Don't try to carry all your gear yourself. Just don't. I tried it the first hour. Regretted it the next. Hiring porters and guides was the best decision I made: They set up your tent Cook you warm meals Know the trails like the back of their hands Support the local economy and give your back a break. Win-win.
6. Choose Your Route Wisely – Know Your Limits
There are two main trails: Sembalun: Best for summit chasers. It's sunnier but with gradual climbs. Senaru: More forest, more shade, but no summit unless you do the full loop.
I did Sembalun up – summit – Segara Anak lake – Senaru down. Super worth it if you're fit and ready for a full experience. You get EVERYTHING: summit, crater, lake, hot springs, sunset and sunrise. Epic!
7. Pack Like a Pro – Or You'll Regret It Mid-Hike
Don't show up with a flimsy backpack and flip-flops. Here's what you NEED:
- Warm jacket & sleeping bag
- Headlamp (summit starts at 2AM!)
- Gloves + beanie = lifesavers at the summit
- Power bank & chargers
- First aid & blister patches
- Dry bag for wet clothes
- Water bottle & energy snacks
- Trash bags—leave no trace!
- Camera for that summit selfie with Mount Agung in the background
Bonus tip: bring a mini flag or sign for your summit photo. It's a cool souvenir shot!
The Climb is Painful. But the View? Pure Magic!
I won't lie summit day was brutal. We woke up at 2AM, hiked in total darkness, stumbled on sand, and questioned life. But when I saw the sunrise from the top, lighting up the clouds below and Mount Agung in the distance chills. Literal chills. Then we descended to Segara Anak lake, took a dip in the hot springs (yes, hot springs on a mountain!) and just sat there, in silence. It's the kind of peace money can't buy.
Final Thoughts: It's Tough, But Oh So Worth It
Rinjani will test you. It'll stretch your limits. You might cry a little. But you'll also laugh, feel alive, and be so proud of yourself when you reach that summit.
So if you're even thinking about hiking Rinjani—do it. But do it right. Prepare, plan, and embrace every crazy moment. Because once you've stood above the clouds on Rinjani's summit, nothing else will ever feel quite the same.
