MODERATE HIKING: 2D/1N Just Crater Rim Senaru

Exploring Mount Rinjani’s crater rim through a 2-day, 1-night moderate trek offers an accessible yet rewarding adventure for those new to hiking. This tour, operated by Rinjani Samalas Tour and Trekking, has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from six reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction among travelers.

What draws us in are the breathtaking views, especially the sunset over Bali’s Agung volcano, the chance to experience lush tropical forests, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. The inclusiveness of the program — especially its family-friendly vibe and comprehensive meals — makes it stand out. However, it’s worth considering that the trek involves decent elevation changes and a 5-hour descent on the second day, which may be tiring for some.

This experience is best suited for beginners with moderate fitness levels, travelers seeking stunning scenery without a multi-day commitment, and those who want a taste of Indonesia’s volcanic landscape in a manageable timeframe. If that sounds like you, keep reading for an in-depth look at what this tour offers.

• Accessible for beginners: Designed with moderate physical activity in mind, suitable for families and first-timers.
• Stunning views: Offers incredible panoramas, including sunset over Bali’s Agung volcano and volcanic smoke.
• All-inclusive value: Meals, camping gear, entrance fees, and expert guides are covered in the price.
• Authentic experience: Guides and porters are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and support.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation available if booked 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.
• Group size: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

An Introduction to the Mount Rinjani Crater Rim Trek

This tour promises a rewarding yet manageable adventure for those eager to see the iconic Rinjani volcano without taking on the full summit climb, which is generally more demanding. With 14 days’ notice on average bookings, it’s a popular choice for travelers planning ahead. The price point of $250 per person balances affordability with a comprehensive experience — covering guides, permits, meals, and camping gear.

From the start at Rinjani Samalas Tour & Trekking headquarters in Senaru, you’re transported to the trek’s beginning point. We loved the emphasis on safety, with all entrance fees and proper camping equipment included, alleviating the stress of organizing gear beforehand.

The tour is designed to be enjoyable for families and those new to trekking, offering a combination of scenic forest walks, cultural insights, and spectacular vistas.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: From Senaru Village to the Crater Rim (2641m)

Your adventure kicks off early, with a 6:30 a.m. pickup from your hotel. The drive to Rinjani Trek Center in Senaru is short and smooth, setting the stage for what’s to come. Starting around 8:00 a.m., you’ll leave the center and head into the thick tropical forests that surround Rinjani.

The forest walk itself is a highlight, as the lush greenery and sounds of wildlife create an immersive experience. The trail is generally gentle but variable, and you’ll make two rest stops: at Pos 2 Montong Satas shelter (around 1500m) and Pos 3 Mondokan Lolak (around 2000m). These stops are perfect for catching your breath, marveling at the flora, and chatting with your guides.

Lunch is served at Pos 3, where you can refuel while taking in the mountain views. Afterward, the ascent to the crater rim begins. Reaching an altitude of 2641 meters, you’ll be treated to the second most spectacular view of Rinjani — the crater rim itself. Expect to see the smoking volcano by the lake and witness a fantastic sunset over Bali’s Agung volcano, which is often highlighted as a tour highlight.

Day 2: Descending into Senaru Village

Waking up early for sunrise, you’ll get a chance to see the crater’s quiet beauty bathed in morning light. The descent back to Senaru takes about five hours of walking through tropical forests. This downhill trek is generally easier on the knees than the ascent but still demands good footwear and some stamina.

Guides and porters are attentive, and from reviews, we see that their friendly demeanor and local knowledge elevate the experience. Travelers like Azmi and Sinthian have been praised for their kindness, humor, and support, making the trek more enjoyable even when it gets tough.

If you’re lucky, you might spot the rare black monkey along the way — a special treat that adds a sense of discovery. Once back in the village, the tour concludes, and you’ll be transported back to your accommodation, tired but satisfied.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package’s all-inclusive nature makes it a practical choice. Entrance fees, tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, camping chairs, and toiletries are provided, removing the hassle of sourcing gear yourself. The experience is led by English-speaking guides and professional porters, ensuring safety and support throughout.

Meals, snacks, fruits, and drinks are taken care of during your trek, with reviewers consistently mentioning the quality and flavor of the food. One reviewer even described the food as “delicious,” emphasizing how it elevates the overall experience.

However, tipping for guides and porters is not included, and you may want to budget extra for personal items or an additional porter if you prefer to carry less. The tour also operates within a maximum of 20 travelers, promoting a more intimate atmosphere.

The Experience of the Guides and Group

From reviews, guides like Sinthian and Azmi stand out, not just for their expertise but for their personalized care. Travelers appreciated their humor, encouragement, and local insights, which transformed a challenging trek into an enjoyable adventure. The porters are noted for their friendliness and professionalism, making sure the group is comfortable and well-fed.

The group size and the presence of experienced guides mean you’re in safe hands, a crucial factor when trekking at higher altitudes. The guides’ knowledge also shines when sharing tidbits about the surrounding flora, fauna, and volcanic activity, adding educational value to the trek.

The Value of the Tour Price

At $250 per person, this tour provides excellent value, considering it covers permits, transport, gear, meals, and expert guiding. For those who want to experience the iconic Rinjani landscape without the strenuous summit climb, this offers a comfortable and well-organized alternative.

It’s especially appealing for families or first-time trekkers since it balances adventure with safety and comfort. The inclusion of meals and camping gear also ensures you won’t need to organize additional logistics, making the trip more relaxed.

What Travelers Love Most

Reviewers consistently rave about the friendly guides and delicious food. The guides are described as amusing, supportive, and knowledgeable — making the climb enjoyable even for those with moderate fitness. The spectacular sunset and sunrise views over Bali and the volcanic smoke are often highlighted as unforgettable highlights.

Many mention how the tour exceeded expectations, with some appreciating the chance to see the rare black monkey along the trail, and others loving the sense of achievement at reaching the crater rim.

This trek is perfect for those new to hiking or looking for a less intense way to explore Mount Rinjani’s volcanic landscape. Families with children and groups seeking a guided, well-organized experience will find this package hits all the right marks.

If you’re after stunning vistas, friendly guides, and a taste of Lombok’s natural beauty without the challenge of summiting, this is a great option. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort within a two-day timeframe.

However, if you’re seeking the thrill of reaching the summit or a longer, more rugged trek, this might not be the tour for you.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed with moderate fitness levels in mind, making it accessible to those new to trekking, especially with supportive guides and manageable daily distances.

What’s the best time of year to do this trek?
While specific months aren’t mentioned, tours are available year-round, weather permitting. Good weather conditions are necessary for the trek, and the tour is canceled or rescheduled in poor weather.

Are meals provided during the trek?
Yes, all meals, snacks, fruits, and drinks are included, and reviewers have praised the quality and taste.

What equipment do I need to bring?
Since camping gear and bedding are included, you mainly need comfortable trekking shoes, clothing suitable for tropical and mountain climates, a hat, and sunscreen.

How long is the descent on day 2?
The descent from the crater rim back to Senaru takes around five hours, mostly downhill through tropical forest.

Can families join this trek?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly, and the environment is safe and supportive for children, provided they’re comfortable with moderate hiking.

What should I tip?
Tipping guides and porters is customary but not included. Use your discretion based on the service quality.

Is there a minimum group size?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, but the minimum isn’t specified.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather and will be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

This 2-day, 1-night trek around Mount Rinjani’s crater rim strikes a fine balance between adventure and accessibility. It offers travelers a chance to witness stunning volcanic landscapes, enjoy expert guidance, and indulge in delicious local food — all without the physical toll of summit climbing.

Ideal for families, beginners, or those with limited time, it’s a smart way to experience Lombok’s volcanic marvels. The thoughtful organization, positive reviews, and beautiful scenery make it a compelling choice for anyone wanting an authentic, memorable Indonesian adventure.

While it does involve some walking and elevation changes, the overall support, safety, and value make this tour a standout for those looking to tick Rinjani off their bucket list in comfort.

In summary, if you’re after a manageable yet memorable trek with incredible views, friendly guides, and a well-organized itinerary, this experience is well worth considering. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about Indonesia’s volcanic landscape, and create stories to tell for years to come.