About The Adventure

Mount Rinjani Summit and Lake Trek, Starting Senaru (3 Days / 2 Nights)

Start your Rinjani adventure from Senaru, climbing through tropical rainforest to the crater rim, crater lake, and the summit at 3,726 metres. This route crosses the volcano from the lush rainforest side to the open Sembalun savannah, finishing at the Sembalun trailhead on Day 3.

The Senaru start is the classic Rinjani experience. A gradual rainforest ascent on Day 1, crater lake and hot springs on Day 2, and a pre-dawn summit push on Day 3 with sunrise views across Lombok, Bali, and Sumbawa.

All-inclusive. Licensed guides, porters, camping equipment, and all meals on the mountain.

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Elevation profile

Summary

3-Day Rinjani Trek Starting Senaru — Rainforest, Crater Lake and Summit

Description

Start from Senaru and trek through tropical rainforest to the crater rim, Segara Anak lake, the Aiq Kalak hot springs, and the summit at 3,726 metres. This route crosses the volcano from the lush rainforest side to the open Sembalun savannah, finishing at the Sembalun trailhead on Day 3.

Duration:

3 Days / 2 Night

Distance:

34 km

Elevation Gain:

4,628 metres

Ideal For:

Trekkers wanting the classic Rinjani experience, starting from the rainforest side of the mountain

Package Inclusions

  • Experienced, friendly, English speaking guides
  • Transport from North Lombok (Mataram, Sengiggi, Bangsal Harbour, Senaru, Lombok International Airport) to Senaru trailhead. Transport from Sembalun trailhead back to hotel, harbour, or airport after the trek.
  • Delicious meals (lunch, dinner, and breakfast) and energy-rich snacks
  • Bottled water on demand. Isotonic and soft drinks.
  • Equipment such as trekking poles, jackets, and hats, if required.
  • Gluten Free, Vegetarian and Vegan meal options available.
  • National Park Entrance Ticket, including insurance (but we recommend you also have individual travel insurance)
  • Secure storage of left-luggage, manned 24/7
  • Complimentary Rinjani Dawn Adventures T-shirt

Optional Add-ons

  • Accommodation in Senaru the night before the trek
  • Private Tour (for individuals, couples, or group bookings)
  • Discounted price available for guests arranging their own transport to Senaru trailhead
  • Group discounts apply automatically for bookings of 4 or more people
  • Premium Insurance (approx. USD $17) — required if your travel insurance does not cover helicopter evacuation

Tour Plan

Day 1

Summary:

Day 1: Senaru to Senaru Crater Rim

Your trek begins at Cafe Rinjani Dawn in Senaru at an elevation of 573m above sea level, climbing through dense tropical rainforest as the trail rises steeply toward the crater rim. Covering a distance of 9.8km with an elevation gain of 2,065m, Day 1 is the biggest single climb of the trek — more vertical gain than ascending Ben Nevis from sea level. The trail passes through increasingly dramatic highland forest before arriving at Plawangan Senaru Crater Rim camp at 2,641m, where you will camp overnight with panoramic views over Segara Anak lake and the volcanic landscape below.


Approximate Timeline:

  • 04:00 AM – Collection from accommodation (time depends on location). If staying in Senaru, collection will be at 05:30.
  • 06:00 AM – Breakfast and briefing at Cafe Rinjani Dawn, Senaru. Equipment issued. Leave excess luggage in secure storage.
  • 06:45 AM – Depart Senaru for Sembalun Village, East Lombok.
  • 07:45 AM – Registration at RTC Sembalun. Basic medical check mandatory.
  • 09:00 AM – Commence Mount Rinjani trek from gate, 1060m AMSL (above mean sea level).
  • 11:00 AM – Arrive at Pos.1 “Pemantuan”, 1300m AMSL. Re-hydration and snack break.
  • 12:15 PM – Arrive at Pos.2 “Tengengean”, 1500m AMSL. Re-hydration and snack break.
  • 13:15 PM – Reach Pos.3 “Pada Balong”, 1800m AMSL. Enjoy a one-hour lunch break and rest.
  • 14:15 PM – Begin the challenging ascent to Sembalun Crater Rim, also known as “Plawangan Sembalun.” This steep and demanding trek takes about three hours, with frequent breaks for hydration and snacks.
  • 17:30 PM – Arrive at Sembalun Crater Rim Campsite. Upon reaching the campsite at 2620m AMSL, your porters and guide will set up camp and start preparing dinner. Meanwhile, you’ll have time to relax, explore the ridgeline, and capture stunning views.
  • 18:30 PM – Dinner will be served as the sun sets above the clouds, offering a truly unforgettable experience. As night falls, the sky will come alive with stars, providing incredible stargazing opportunities. We recommend getting an early night, as the next day will be equally demanding.

Useful Information:

  • Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential on Day 1. The rainforest climb is steep and sustained. Your guide will provide water and isotonic drinks throughout the day.
  • Sun Protection: The upper section of the trail above the treeline offers little shade. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days.
  • Temperature Drop: Once you reach Senaru Crater Rim at 2,641m, the temperature drops significantly after sunset. Change into warm, dry clothes immediately upon arrival at camp.
  • Accommodation: You will sleep in tents equipped with comfortable sleeping mats, fresh sleeping bags, and pillows. Contact us in advance if you prefer a private tent setup.
  • Meals: Your porters will prepare a freshly cooked dinner at Senaru Crater Rim camp. Let us know in advance of any dietary requirements — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Halal options are available.
  • Stargazing: The crater rim offers exceptional stargazing with views across Lombok and beyond. Take some time after dinner before getting an early rest for Day 2.

Day 2

Summary:

Day 2: Senaru Crater Rim to Sembalun Crater Rim

From your camp at Plawangan Senaru Crater Rim (2,641m), the trail descends steeply into the crater to Segara Anak lake (2,008m), one of the most stunning crater lakes in Southeast Asia. After time to rest and soak in the Aiq Kalak natural hot springs on the lake shore, the trail climbs back up through the crater to Plawangan Sembalun Crater Rim camp (2,639m), where you will spend the night in preparation for the pre-dawn summit push on Day 3. Day 2 covers 7.32km with an elevation gain of +1,128m and loss of -1,065m — a shorter but beautiful day with the crater lake and hot springs as its highlight.


Useful Information:

  • Crater Descent: The descent from Senaru Crater Rim to Segara Anak lake is steep in places. Take your time and use trekking poles if available. Your guide will set a pace that suits the group.
  • Hot Springs: The Aiq Kalak hot springs on the shore of Segara Anak lake are a highlight of the trek. You will have time to soak and relax before continuing. Bring a small towel and a change of clothes if you plan to get in.
  • Hydration: Day 2 involves significant ascent and descent. Keep drinking water throughout the day. Your guide will carry supplies and refill points are available at the lake.
  • Temperature: The crater is sheltered and can be warmer than the rim. However Sembalun Crater Rim camp at night is cold and exposed. Ensure warm layers are accessible in your daypack for arrival at camp.
  • Meals: Lunch will be served at Segara Anak lake. Your porters will prepare dinner at Sembalun Crater Rim camp. Let us know in advance of any dietary requirements.
  • Rest: Get to sleep as early as possible on Night 2. Your guide will wake you between midnight and 1am for the summit push on Day 3.

Day 3

Summary:

Day 3: Summit Push and Descent to Sembalun

The final day begins before dawn. Your guide will wake you between midnight and 1am for the summit climb from Plawangan Sembalun Crater Rim (2,639m) to the summit of Mount Rinjani at 3,726m. The ascent covers loose volcanic scree and requires determination, but the reward is a sunrise from the highest point in Indonesia outside Papua, with views across Lombok, Bali, Sumbawa, and the Gili Islands. After descending back to camp for breakfast, the trail continues down through the open Sembalun savannah to the trailhead, covering a total distance of 16.48km with a descent of -3,032m. Transport will be waiting at Sembalun to return you to your hotel, harbour, or Lombok International Airport.


Useful Information:

  • Wake Up Call: Your guide will wake you between midnight and 1am for the summit push. Get to sleep as early as possible on Night 2. Lay out your summit clothes and headtorch before sleeping so you are ready to move quickly.
  • Headtorch: A headtorch is essential for the pre-dawn summit climb. Ensure it is fully charged or has fresh batteries before the trek begins. Your guide will also carry a torch but you will need your own.
  • Summit Conditions: The summit ridge is cold and exposed before sunrise. Temperatures can drop significantly below what you experienced at camp. Bring your warmest layer, gloves, and a windproof jacket for the summit push.
  • Scree Ascent: The final section to the summit is loose volcanic scree. Take your time, follow your guide, and use trekking poles if available. The descent on scree is faster but hard on the knees.
  • Descent to Sembalun: After breakfast at camp, the descent through the open Sembalun savannah is long at 16.48km total for the day. Pace yourself and keep drinking water throughout the descent.
  • Transport: Your transport will be waiting at the Sembalun trailhead to return you to your hotel, harbour, or Lombok International Airport.

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Our Top Reviews

Wonderful Experience 3D2N Package

One of the greatest but also one of the most challenging 3 days of my life...Climbing the Mount Rinjani in Indonesia with Rinjani Dawn adventures. But definitely worth the effort and sweat, the views are simply breathtaking and the experience itself unforgettable. Wonderful guide, sunsets and sunrises at the mountains and above the clouds, camping on the crater rims, relaxing in hot springs, wonderful porters who prepare you the food and drinks and tents, and carry all that stuff themselves. And not just basic food, but best food I have had in Indonesia, with even better views. Curry with chicken, banana pancakes, and even pop corn, you name it. Great environmentally friendly tour company.

Merit.F

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Rinjani Dawn Adventures the best choice for climbing Mount Rinjani?

Rinjani Dawn Adventures has over 10 years of experience, fully licensed operations, and the most experienced guides. We are proud to have been awarded TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice for the past two years and were named Sustainable Tour Company of the Year, Indonesia, at the World Luxury Travel Awards in 2023. Our commitment to safety, environmental sustainability, and community support sets us apart.

What is unique about Rinjani Dawn Adventures compared to other tour operators on Lombok Island?

We focus on personalized experiences, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. Our ‘leave no trace’ policy and passion for Lombok’s culture and nature make us unique.

What is the best time of year to climb Mount Rinjani?

Trekking Mount Rinjani is best done during the dry season (April to November), when weather conditions are favorable for trekking and the views are spectacular. The season runs from 1st April to 31st December.

When did Mount Rinjani last erupt? Is it safe?

Mount Rinjani last erupted in 2016, and since then, its activity has been closely monitored by Indonesia’s Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Center. Trekking is considered safe, as the park authorities only allow access when conditions are stable. Safety is our top priority, and we stay updated on all volcanic activity to ensure the well-being of our trekkers.

Is trekking Mount Rinjani suitable for beginners?

Yes, but it requires a good level of fitness. We offer different routes and packages, such as the Senaru Crater Rim trek, which is ideal for beginners and families.

How does Rinjani Dawn Adventures ensure the safety of its customers?

Our guides have many years experience guiding on the mountain, and are trained in first aid. We also provide high-quality equipment and carefully plan itineraries to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

What is your average group size?

Group size depends on the tour package, but the average is 4-6 people. Our minimum number to run a trek is 2 people unless an individual wants to pay for a private trek. Private treks can be arranged for groups at no extra cost—in fact, we offer discounts for group bookings of four or more people.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes, we do offer discounts for group bookings of over 4 PAX. These are usually done on a sliding scale, with a discount for a booking of 4-7 PAX, and a greater discount for group bookings of more than 8 PAX.

Is accommodation included the night before a trek?

No, accommodation is not included in our standard treks, as many people travel to Senaru on the morning of the trek. Not including accommodation allows us to keep the cost of the trek down. Some of our multi-day packages do include accommodation—please check out the individual tour pages for more information.

How does Rinjani Dawn Adventures support the local community on Lombok Island?

We set-up our Sasak Warriors initiative in 2018, which provides food aid, education, and environmental support to local communities. A percentage of our trekking and restaurant profit, and 100% of profits from our Sasak Warriors merch go to this cause.

Where is Rinjani Dawn Adventures based?

Our office is in Senaru, but we now do pre-trek briefings at our new restaurant, Cafe Rinjani Dawn. This allows customers to enjoy refreshments, coffee, food, and a beautiful view before starting their adventure.

What should I know about trekking permits for Mount Rinjani?

All trekkers need an official permit to enter Gunung Rinjani National Park. We handle all permit arrangements as part of our tour packages, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

What is the best waterfall to visit on Lombok?

There are many beautiful waterfalls to visit in Lombok, but we recommend Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep as excellent choices. The Senaru Waterfall Trail, which starts and finishes close to our restaurant, Cafe Rinjani Dawn, is a stunning walk that can be enjoyed by all levels.

Do you offer private treks?

Yes, we offer private treks at no extra cost for groups. Individuals can also book private treks if preferred, but we have to add a surcharge for this option. Private treks are a great option for those seeking a more personalized and exclusive experience.

Do you include transport in your packages?

Most of our trekking packages include transport to and from the trekking starting point. Transport details are specified on individual tour pages, so you can easily plan your trip. We have a travel zone map which shows you which areas are included, and which areas entail a surcharge.

How do I make payments for my Mount Rinjani trek or Lombok tour package?

We invoice for deposits using PayPal. The outstanding payment can be made on the day of the trek by cash, credit card, or PayPal. We also accept transfers to our bank account via Wise and Revolut. Providing our customers with secure and convenient payment options is important to us.

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