If you’re anything like us, you’ve been to Bali a couple times: you’ve seen the sights, climbed Mt Batur, encountered the crowds and traffic chaos. And look it’s fiiiinne, but now you’re ready for a newer, BIGGER adventure so you’ve set your sights east towards Lombok. Cue Mount Rinjani.
Hiking Mt Rinjani is arguably the most rewarding physical challenge in Southeast Asia, offering a dramatic landscape of volcanic craters, turquoise lakes and the most stunning sunrise view. To successfully summit this 3,726-metre peak, travellers can choose between various routes, typically spanning two to four days. We picked the 3-day, 2-night itinerary* (see below for details) which strikes the perfect balance between challenging and fun.
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Hiking Mt Rinjani 3-day itinerary breakdown
A standard 3-day Hiking Mt Rinjani itinerary typically begins in Senaru village and concludes in Sembalun village. This route provides the best logistical flow for hiking through the lush tropical rainforest to the crater rim, descending into the crater lake for a soak in the hot springs, and reaching the summit on the third morning.
| Day | Approx. distance | Elevation gain | Estimated time |
| 1 | 10km | 2,000m ascent | 6 hours |
| 2 | 8km | 600m descent 600m ascent | 6 hours |
| 3 | 18km | 1,100m ascent 2,700m descent | 11.5 hours |
Day 0: Transfer to Senaru Village
Most tours you’ll come across will actually include a night stay in the village prior to the hike. Our tour offered a complimentary pick up from either Bangsal Harbour, Senggigi or Mataram to Senaru Village in either the morning or evening of the day prior to the trek.
The total journey took about 2 hours from south to north of Lombok where Senaru village is. If you have the time, we’d suggest taking the morning pick up option as it gives you free time in the afternoon to explore the two waterfalls near the village. Sendang Gile Waterfall and Tiu Kelep Waterfall are both within a short walking distance of the village and offer a nice relaxing afternoon activity to explore the area!
Day 1: Senaru Village > Senaru Crater Rim
You’ll start from Senaru village, trekking through jungle and gradually moving into exposed volcanic terrain. The first day is long and demanding, with a steep to the crater rim at 2,641m. Expect around 7–8 hours of hiking.
At camp on the crater rim, you’ll be rewarded with your first view of Segara Anak, the turquoise crater lake. The sunset views here were amazing and made the first day of hiking worth the struggle.
Day 2: Senaru Crater Rim > Segara Anak Lake and Hot Springs > Sembalun Crater Rim
You’ll descend from Senaru crater rim into the caldera, passing volcanic rock fields before reaching the lake and hot springs. After lunch, it’s a steep climb back up towards Sembalum crater rim. Camping at Sembalun crater rim sets you up for the summit attemp
Day 3: Summit Push at 2am, followed by Descent to Sembalun Village
You’ll wake around 2 AM for the summit climb. The first third is manageable, the second steady, and the final stretch is steep volcanic scree where every step forward slips half a step back. The reward: sunrise at 3,726m. After descending back to camp, you’ll continue all the way down to Sembalun village.
How Safe Is the Mt Rinjani Hike?
Safety depends on preparation. Trails are steep and physically demanding, but guides and porters know the mountain well. Our group felt safe at all times, even in the toughest sections.
- Biggest risks: exhaustion, altitude effects, slipping on loose rocks on final part of summit.
- How to reduce risks: hire a licensed guide, pace yourself, and bring proper footwear.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. Do you need a guide for Mt Rinjani?
Yes. Independent trekking is not allowed. Licensed guides ensure safety, logistics, and park compliance.
2. How fit do you need to be?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable hiking 6–8 hours per day with significant elevation gain. Mental resilience is just as important as fitness.
3. Can you get altitude sickness on Mt Rinjani?
Yes, mild symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and nausea are common above 2,000m. Staying hydrated, ascending steadily, and resting help reduce effects. If you’re particularly susceptible to altitude sickness (like Ling), planning ahead with some meds like Diamox can be super helpful.
4. What’s the best time of year to hike?
April to December is trekking season. The park is closed during the rainy season (January–March).
Things to Pack for Mt Rinjani
- Sturdy hiking boots with strong grip
- Warm clothes, gloves and a beanie
- Swimwear for the lake and hot springs
- Rain jacket (optional)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Extra snacks for energy boosts
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
- Trekking poles, especially useful for the summit and descents
- Sunscreen and hat (UV at altitude is intense)
- Small first aid kit (blister pads, painkillers)
- Dry bag for electronics and clothes
- Camera or phone for sunrise shots
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