Conquer Mount Rinjani Second Summit: A 2-Day, Lombok-Indonesia

Tackling Indonesia’s Mount Rinjani is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers. This particular 2-day trek promises an accessible yet rewarding experience, focusing on reaching the second summit and enjoying the breathtaking Senaru Crater Rim, home to the pristine Lake Segara Anak. It’s designed to be friendly to beginners but still offers enough challenge to satisfy seasoned hikers. From panoramic crater views to starry nights camping under millions of stars, this tour packs a lot of memorable moments into just over a day and a half.

What really catches our eye is the expert guidance and the emphasis on eco-friendly practices. The guides seem well-versed and caring, making sure safety is a priority while also respecting nature — a big win for environmentally conscious travelers. A potential consideration is the duration and physical demand; even though it’s labeled as an “easiest” trek, be prepared for some uphill stretches and overnight camping. This experience is perfect for those seeking a well-organized, authentic adventure that offers both stunning scenery and local hospitality.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a beginners who want a taste of mountain trekking, or someone eager to enjoy Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes without overexerting, this tour suits a wide range of abilities. It’s particularly appealing if you value local guides, delicious meals, and a sustainable approach to tourism.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Designed as an easier trek but still delivers impressive views and experiences.
• Eco-conscious: Participants actively participate in tree planting and leave no rubbish behind.
• Expert local guides: Rizal and his team are praised for their safety-conscious approach and knowledge.
• Stunning scenery: Views of the crater lake, volcanoes, lush forests, and starry skies are unforgettable.
• Value for money: At $160 per person, including food, gear, park tickets, and insurance, it’s a well-rounded package.
• Flexible booking: Book at least 49 days in advance, with options for group discounts and pickup services.

An In-Depth Look at the Rinjani Second Summit Trek

Why choose this tour?

This 2-day trek is praised for how friendly and manageable it is, especially given Mount Rinjani’s reputation as Indonesia’s second-highest volcano. It offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural appreciation. The fact that it’s often booked about 7 weeks in advance speaks to its popularity and well-organized nature. The price point of $160 per person includes everything from meals to park entrance fees, making it a good value considering the level of service and experience.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Starting from Senaru and reaching the crater rim

The adventure begins early morning with a pickup service, usually from your accommodation, guiding you to the starting point. The journey involves trekking through lush forests, with guides like Rizal emphasizing safety and environmental responsibility. You’ll climb gradually, with the scenery shifting from dense greenery to volcanic terrain.

As you ascend, you’ll stop at Crater Lake National Park, a highlight of this trek. Although the tour doesn’t include camping near the lake itself, you’ll camp at 2640 meters, overlooking the volcanic crater lake. Reviewers frequently mention how serene this spot is — a moment to really breathe in the mountain’s peacefulness, away from the busy world. One guest shared, “We could feel and resonate with how tranquil Mount Rinjani is from this vantage point.”

Night at the crater rim

Camping at this altitude provides a perfect setting for enjoying the sunset and sunrise views. The experience of sitting by the campfire, under a sky full of stars, is a standout feature. Travelers call it “romantic” and “awe-inspiring,” especially when watching the volcanoes and lake illuminated by dawn or dusk.

Breakfast and descent

After the sunrise, you’ll have a hearty breakfast before starting your descent. The route down is often described as beautiful and varied, with plenty of landscapes to admire along the way. The guides are patient and attentive, making sure everyone keeps pace and stays safe.

Highlights of the tour

• Crater Rim Sunset & Sunrise: Watching the sun paint the crater with warm colors or glow behind the volcanoes is a magical experience. The views over Lake Segara Anak are unbeatable.
• Camping with a starry night: Camp gear is included, with tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses provided. Reviewers highlight the comfortable setup and the social atmosphere around the fire.
• Local food: Expect to sample delicious local recipes, cooked by the porters. Many mention how filling and tasty the meals are, often prepared with care and served with a friendly smile.
• Eco-friendly approach: Several reviewers have appreciated the guides’ efforts in rubbish collection and tree planting initiatives—making this more than just a trek, but a sustainable adventure.

Guides & Service

Rizal and his team are lauded for their knowledge, safety consciousness, and friendly attitude. One reviewer described Rizal as “super patient” and “taking care of us,” which is crucial on such a physically demanding outing. The guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, providing insights into the mountain’s geology, flora, and fauna.

What’s not included?

• Accommodation before the trek (you’ll need to arrange this separately).
• Personal expenses, such as extra baggage carried by porters.
• Transportation to the meeting point and from the trek’s end.

Practical Tips for Trekking Mount Rinjani

• Book early: The tour is popular, often booked 49 days ahead, so plan your schedule accordingly.
• Prepare physically: The trek isn’t overly technical but does involve uphill walking and camping. Moderate fitness helps.
• Pack smart: The included gear eases packing, but bring essentials like warm clothes for the night, sunglasses, and sunblock.
• Travel insurance: Covered in the package, but double-check if you need additional coverage for outdoor activities.
• Eco-conscious mindset: Participate in the tree planting and rubbish collection to make a positive impact.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This trek is ideal for beginners wanting to experience high-altitude camping and volcanic landscapes without the extreme difficulty of reaching Mount Rinjani’s summit. Travelers who value local guides and sustainable tourism will appreciate the eco-friendly initiatives and community involvement. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and authentic experience that balances adventure with comfort.

Those with a moderate fitness level will find this accessible, but the overnight camping and elevation gain still mean it’s a good idea to be prepared physically. It’s also a strong choice for groups or couples who want a shared adventure with a touch of romance under the stars.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Transportation to the meeting point and after the trek is not included, so you’ll need to organize your own transfer. However, pickup from your accommodation is offered once you’re booked.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $160 per person, including food, gear, park tickets, and insurance. It offers good value given the inclusions and the experience.

Is the trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews highlight this as an “easiest” route, making it suitable for beginners who are physically capable of moderate hiking and camping.

What do I need to bring?
While camp equipment and meals are provided, packing warm clothes for the night and sun protection is advised. Personal expenses and extra baggage are not included.

How physical is the trek?
It involves a 1.5-day walking with some uphill sections; it’s described as manageable but still physically demanding. Good fitness will enhance enjoyment.

Can I participate in eco-friendly activities?
Absolutely. The tour actively involves participants in tree planting and emphasizes cleaning up the mountain, making it a responsible and meaningful adventure.

What’s the highlight of this tour?
Many say it’s the sunset and sunrise from the crater rim, along with starry camping nights. The panoramic views of the volcano and Lake Segara Anak are unforgettable.

What’s the best time to do this trek?
While specific weather info isn’t provided, most travelers find the dry season ideal. The tour confirms it’s weather-dependent, with options to reschedule or get a full refund in case of poor conditions.

Final thoughts

This 2-day Mount Rinjani trek offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and environmental responsibility. The inclusion of delicious local food, expert guides, and eco-initiatives makes it appealing for travelers who want more than just a hike—they want a meaningful adventure. It’s a fantastic choice for those new to trekking, as well as seasoned hikers seeking a lighter, scenic route with memorable nights under the stars.

The price point, combined with the thoughtful inclusions, makes this tour a strong value for money. Whether you’re after breathtaking crater views, a social camping experience, or a chance to support eco-friendly tourism, this trek checks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a moderate, well-organized adventure that showcases Mount Rinjani’s stunning landscapes without pushing you to the absolute limits, this tour is worth considering. The focus on safety, local involvement, and sustainability ensures a respectful and authentic experience. It’s especially suited for beginners or those interested in eco-tourism, but the scenery and camaraderie make it appealing for all adventure lovers.

Travelers who value good food, knowledgeable guides, and stunning views will find this trek ticks all the right boxes. Just remember to book early and prepare for some uphill moments – the memories of watching the sunrise from the crater rim are worth every step.

Enjoy your adventure on Mount Rinjani, and remember: the mountain is there to challenge and inspire you. Happy trekking!