Mount Rinjani National Park: 3 Days Hiking to Summit & Lake

Planning a trek to Indonesia’s Mount Rinjani is no small feat, but for those craving an authentic adventure, a 3-day hike offers a chance to see some of the most breathtaking views in West Nusa Tenggara. While I haven’t personally tackled this tour, I’ve reviewed detailed itineraries and traveler insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What excites us most about this experience are the chance to witness a spectacular sunrise from the summit, soak in the hot springs after a tough climb, and enjoy the camaraderie of small-group trekking. We love that the tour covers all main highlights within the National Park, from the Crater Rim Senaru to Segara Anak Lake, offering a well-rounded experience.

A possible consideration is the physically demanding nature of the climb—this is not for the faint of heart or those with pre-existing medical issues. The tour is best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and a love for nature’s raw beauty. If you’re up for an authentic mountain adventure and don’t mind the altitude and early mornings, this trek could be your highlight in Lombok.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering major sights within Mount Rinjani National Park
• Small group tours (limited to 6 participants) for a more personalized experience
• Full board service included, with the option for private or shared groups
• Challenging but rewarding climb to the summit with an unforgettable sunrise
• Includes hot springs and lakes for relaxing breaks amidst nature
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the 3-Day Mount Rinjani Trek

Starting the adventure: pickup & initial transfer

The journey begins early, with pickups as early as 4:00 am from your hotel in Lombok. The tour’s logistics are well-structured—your transport is arranged to take you from your hotel to Senaru Village, where the adventure officially kicks off. This early start, while demanding, ensures you make the most of daylight for your trek and avoids the midday heat at higher altitudes.

Day 1: From Senaru to Crater Rim Sembalun

The first day is all about setting the pace and acclimating to the surroundings. After registering at the National Park office, you’ll begin your trek around 8:30 am, heading toward the Crater Rim Sembalun. The route is designed to be manageable, with a lunch break at a designated post, giving your group time to relax and enjoy the scenic green slopes.

Arriving at the campsite around 5 pm, you can settle in, set up camp, and enjoy your first meal under the stars. For many, this sets the tone for the trip—a blend of exertion and awe as the landscape unfolds. The guide and crew are experienced, ensuring safety and sharing insightful local stories along the way.

Day 2: The summit sunrise & the lakeside retreat

The highlight of this day is the very early climb to the summit at around 2:00 am. This intense start is worth it—reaching the Rinjani Summit before sunrise offers a chance to see the changing colors over the crater rim and the surrounding landscape. As one reviewer put it, “Waking up at 2 am was tough, but the view from the top at sunrise was absolutely worth every early hour.”

After enjoying the panoramic vistas at the summit, you’ll descend back to the Crater Rim Sembalun for breakfast, then make a trek down to Segara Anak Lake. The lake is a mesmerizing spot, often shrouded in mist in the early morning, with clear waters reflecting the volcanic surroundings. You’ll also have the opportunity to relax in the hot springs nearby—a perfect way to soothe tired muscles.

By late afternoon, you’ll climb back up to Crater Rim Senaru for your campsite, where dinner and overnight stay await. This day is packed and physically demanding, but the variety of scenery makes every step worthwhile.

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Day 3: Descent and return to Lombok

On the final day, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning your descent to Senaru Village. The route offers views of lush forests and traditional villages, providing a glimpse into local life. The descent is generally easier than the ascent but still requires good footwear and caution, especially on uneven terrain.

Arriving back at the village around 1:30 pm, you’ll be transferred to your hotel or next destination. The tour’s timing allows you to relax and reflect on the incredible sights you’ve experienced.

What Travelers Can Expect

Trekking Experience & Terrain

Expect a mix of terrains: grassy slopes, rocky paths, and forested areas. The ascent to the summit is steep but manageable with sturdy hiking shoes and proper gear. The guides are attentive, sharing tips on pacing and altitude adjustment, critical for a safe climb.

Support & Comfort

Full board service ensures you’re well-fed throughout the trip, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided at key points. Camping gear is included, but travelers should bring appropriate clothing, including warm layers for the summit and rain gear as the weather can change rapidly.

Guides & Group Size

With a maximum group size of six, you get a more personalized experience. Guides are fluent in English and Indonesian, knowledgeable about the park’s geology and flora. Many reviews mention the guides’ professionalism and willingness to share insights, making the trek educational as well as physically challenging.

Logistics & Timing

Transportation from hotels in Lombok is included, with pickup times tailored to your location. While early mornings are standard, this allows for maximum daylight hours on the trail. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Additional Insights from Travelers

• One reviewer noted the hot springs are a relaxing reward after the intense climb, adding a luxurious touch to the adventure.
• Several talked about the importance of proper gear: “Bring gloves, a flashlight, and a good jacket—the weather can turn quickly.”
• The small group setting was appreciated for the personalized attention, with comments like, “The guides really took care of our group and made sure everyone was comfortable.”

Pricing & Value

While the tour isn’t inexpensive, the price reflects an inclusive package—transport, park registration, food, camping gear, and expert guiding. Considering the logistical complexity and the chance to visit all the main highlights of Mount Rinjani within three days, many travelers find it offers solid value.

The full-board service means you don’t need to worry about sourcing food or camping equipment, which adds convenience and safety. For those looking for an adventurous yet organized experience, this tour hits the right balance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers with a decent fitness level who want to experience Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes authentically. It suits those eager to see sunrise from a summit, enjoy thermal hot springs, and explore lakes inside a volcano.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with health issues related to altitude, joints, or cardiac conditions. Those who prefer a more leisurely holiday or have mobility challenges might want to consider other options.

This 3-day Mount Rinjani trek offers an excellent introduction to Indonesia’s volcanic grandeur, balancing physical challenge with stunning scenery. The tour’s covers all major highlights—summit, lake, hot springs—while providing a well-organized, small-group experience with knowledgeable guides.

It’s perfect for those seeking a true adventure, willing to push themselves a little, and eager to see one of Southeast Asia’s most impressive natural wonders. With the right gear and a sense of exploration, this trek promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While it’s designed for those with a reasonable fitness level, the climb is challenging and involves early mornings and steep sections. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with moderate altitude and rough terrain.

What should I pack for this trek?
You’ll need hiking shoes, a jacket, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a flashlight, and a daypack. Don’t forget your camera, swimwear for the hot springs, and toiletries. The guide recommends bringing insect repellent and a power bank for your devices.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Are meals included?
Yes, full board service is provided, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner at designated spots. This simplifies planning and ensures you stay energized.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants to allow for a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from any hotel in Lombok is included, with specific times depending on your location—early mornings are standard to maximize daylight on the trail.

You can check availability for your dates here: