Mount Rinjani Trek FAQ & Lombok Tours Help Centre

If you’re planning a trek up Mount Rinjani, you probably have a few questions before you set off. This Mount Rinjani trek FAQ is designed to give you clear, practical answers about our tours—from booking and safety to packing tips, transport, and payments. You’ll also find information about exploring Lombok and the Gili Islands, plus links to useful resources so you can plan your adventure with confidence.

Mount Rinjani Trekking

  • How difficult is the Mount Rinjani trek?

    The trek is challenging and requires a good base level of fitness. Expect steep ascents, high altitudes, and long walking days. We recommend training with hiking and cardio for several weeks beforehand.

  • What’s included in a Rinjani Dawn Adventures trek?

    All park permits, experienced local guides, porter support, camping equipment, meals, and drinking water are included. Hotel pickup is provided from many areas in Lombok.

  • What should I pack for the trek?

    Layered clothing, a warm jacket, rain protection, headlamp, sturdy hiking shoes, refillable water bottles, sun protection, personal toiletries, and any personal medication. A full packing list is available in our Help Centre.

  • When is the best time to climb Mount Rinjani?

    The trekking season runs from April to December. The dry season (May–October) offers the most reliable weather.

  • Are your guides trained in first aid?

    Yes — all guides undergo mandatory first aid training at the start of each trekking season.

  • What happens if the national park closes?

    We offer alternative tours, rescheduling, or refunds in line with our policy if park closures occur due to weather or maintenance.

The Gili Islands (Trawangan, Meno, Air)

  • What kind of tours do you run to the Gili Islands?

    Snorkelling and beach‑day trips around Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air. Typical stops include the underwater statues, turtle points, and shallow reefs, with time for lunch and free time on an island.

  • Are the tours family‑friendly and suitable for beginners?

    Yes. We provide masks, snorkels and life jackets, choose calm sites for beginners, and keep an eye on currents. Non‑swimmers can join with floatation support.

  • How do we get to the Gilis from Lombok?

    We depart by boat from the Lombok side (usually Bangsal/Teluk Nare). Hotel pickup is available from common areas; full details are in your booking confirmation.

  • When is the best time to visit the Gilis?

    April–October generally offers the calmest seas and best visibility. Trips run year‑round, but itineraries can change with wind and tide.

  • Are there motor vehicles on the islands?

    No cars or motorbikes are allowed on the Gilis. You’ll get around by bicycle, e-bike, cidomo (horse cart) or on foot.

  • Do you follow reef‑safe practices?

    Absolutely—no touching coral or turtles, no standing on reefs, and we recommend reef‑safe sunscreen only.

The Secret Gilis (Nanggu, Sudak, Kedis)

  • What makes the “Secret Gilis” different from the main Gilis?

    They’re quieter, smaller islands off southwest Lombok—great for relaxed snorkelling, sandy shallows, and fewer crowds.

  • Which islands do you visit?

    Most trips include Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis (tiny sandbar). Routes can vary with weather and tides.

  • Are these trips suitable for first‑time snorkellers?

    Yes—reefs are shallow and protected. We provide life jackets and easy entry/exit from the boat.

  • What’s included?

    Boat, guide, snorkel gear, life jackets, and drinking water. Lunch is usually at a local warung on an island (paid locally unless stated).

  • When is the best time to go?

    April–October has the best water clarity. Trips are possible in the shoulder months with flexible planning.

  • Any conservation guidelines?

    Please don’t touch coral or marine life, avoid fins on very shallow reef flats, and pack out all rubbish.

Pergasingan Hill (Sembalun)

  • How hard is the Pergasingan Hill hike?

    Moderate. Expect a steady uphill trail with some steep sections. Suitable for active beginners with regular breaks.

  • Is it a day hike or can we camp?

    Both options are available. Day hikes take ~6–7 hours round‑trip; overnight trips include camping on the ridge for sunset and sunrise views of Rinjani.

  • What should I bring?

    Light layers, wind/rain shell, sturdy shoes, headlamp (for sunrise/sunset trips), 1–2 L water, snacks, and sun protection. Camping gear is provided on overnight packages.

  • Do we need a permit or guide?

    Local tickets/fees are handled by us on guided trips. A local guide is strongly recommended for route finding, timing and safety.

  • What are the views like?

    Beautiful colored fields, the Sembalun valley and sweeping vistas of Mount Rinjani—spectacular at golden hour.

Senaru (Village & Waterfalls)

  • What are the main attractions in Senaru?

    The traditional village and two famous waterfalls—Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep—plus forest walks and rice‑terrace viewpoints. It’s also a classic base for Rinjani treks.

  • Do I need a guide for the waterfalls?

    The paths are straightforward, but a local guide is recommended for safety, river crossings and the best photo spots—especially after rain.

  • How long do the waterfalls take?

    Allow ~30–45 minutes to Sendang Gile and ~60–90 minutes total if you continue to Tiu Kelep. Times vary with fitness and river levels.

  • What should I wear/bring?

    Grippy shoes or sandals you can get wet, light clothing, and a dry bag for phones. After rain, expect slippery stones and stronger currents.

  • Is Senaru a good place to stay before a trek?

    Yes—there are homestays and small hotels, early breakfasts, and easy access to trek briefings and gear checks.

  • Are there entrance fees?

    Yes—small official fees are collected at the waterfall gate. We cover entrance fees in the cost of your tour.

  • How do I book a tour or trek with Rinjani Dawn Adventures?

    You can book directly through our website. If you get stuck or need more information, please feel free to message us on WhatsApp and we’ll be happy to help.

  • How far in advance should I book?

    For Mount Rinjani treks in peak season (June–September) we recommend booking 3–4 weeks in advance. This is because the national park authority (TNGR) limits numbers on the mountain, and sometimes, certain dates book out. For other tours, 1–2 weeks’ notice is usually enough. For last minute bookings (1-2 days or less), please contact us on WhatsApp, as well as via the website.

  • Do you require a deposit?

    Yes. A deposit secures your booking, with the balance payable before or on the day of your tour.

Safety and Medical

  • Are your guides trained in first aid?

    Yes — all guides complete mandatory first aid training before each trekking season and carry basic medical kits.

  • What if I have a medical condition?

    Please inform us in advance so we can advise on suitability and make necessary arrangements. Some tours may not be suitable for those with serious health conditions.

  • Do you carry oxygen on Mount Rinjani treks?

    No — we do not carry oxygen tanks. If anyone shows symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), our priority is to descend to a lower altitude as quickly and safely as possible, which is the most effective treatment.

  • Is there a malaria risk in Lombok?

    The risk is considered low in most tourist areas, but malaria does exist in some rural parts. Consult your doctor about anti-malarial precautions before travel.

  • What about dengue fever?

    Dengue fever is present in Lombok and is spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. We recommend using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves/trousers in the early morning and late afternoon, and choosing accommodation with mosquito nets or screens.

  • Is the tap water safe to drink?

    No — tap water in Lombok is not safe for drinking. Stick to bottled, filtered, or boiled water. We provide safe drinking water on all our tours.

  • Are there hospitals and clinics nearby?

    In North Lombok, there are basic clinics and a small hospital in Tanjung. For more serious cases, patients are usually transferred to Mataram, the provincial capital, which has larger hospitals and some English-speaking doctors.

  • Do I need travel or health insurance?

    Yes — comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking and medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Please bring proof of your policy with you.

Cancellations and Refunds

  • What is your cancellation policy for Mount Rinjani and Senaru Crater Rim packages?

    Cancellation more than one month before departure: Full refund minus the national park entrance and insurance fee (200,000 IDR per person per day, 300,000 IDR per person per day on public holidays) and a 7% administration fee.

    Cancellation within one week but more than two days before departure: 50% refund of the total paid.

    Cancellation two days or less before departure: No refund.

  • What happens if I cannot complete my trek?

    For customers who book a 3- or 4-day trek and turn back after day one, there will be no refund for the trek. Additional transport costs to return early may be charged, as we must still pay guides, porters, and associated trip costs.

  • What if the national park closes due to weather or safety concerns?

    If the park authority closes Mount Rinjani for safety reasons, we will offer a refund minus any sunk costs, rescheduling where possible, or an alternative tour. We recommend having travel insurance that covers cancellations due to weather.

  • Can I reschedule my trek or tour?

    Yes — changes must be made in writing and are subject to availability and approval. Additional charges may apply because national park entrance tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.

  • What is your policy for natural events such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions?

    In the event of a natural disaster, cancellations will follow our Force Majeure and general cancellation policies. Please ensure your travel insurance covers these events.

Transport & Meeting Points

  • Where do Rinjani treks start and end?

    Most treks start from Senaru or Sembalun and finish at the opposite trailhead, depending on the route.

  • Do you provide hotel pickup?

    Yes — pickups are available from many locations in Lombok. We’ll confirm details when you book.

  • Can you arrange transport from the airport or harbour?

    Yes — we can arrange private transfers from Lombok International Airport, Bangsal Harbour, and other locations.

Payments & Invoices

  • What is your primary payment method for deposits?

    Our primary means of invoicing and accepting payment for the deposit is through PayPal. You can pay this using a credit card, even if you don’t have a PayPal account.

  • How can I pay the outstanding balance?

    Outstanding balances can be paid using cash (preferred), credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer. If you wish to pay via bank transfer using Wise, Revolut, or a similar service, this is also fine — we will just need a receipt of the transaction so we can track it.

  • Will I receive an invoice with payment options?

    Yes — when you book a tour with us, we will send you an invoice with the different payment options clearly listed.

Contact & Support

  • How can I contact you quickly?

    WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us:

    Aef – Operations & Logistics Manager: +62 823-4101-1044

    Rizal – Bookings Manager: +62 823-4054-5410
    You can also email us or use the contact form on our website.

  • What are your response times?

    We aim to respond within a few hours during business hours, and within 24 hours for all enquiries.

  • Do you have a physical office?

    Yes — we have a physical office, but it is not manned all the time. Many of our customer briefings are held at our restaurant, Cafe Rinjani Dawn, in Senaru. Rizal, our Bookings Manager, operates out of a small office inside the café and is available most of the time — so please feel free to pop by for a coffee and a chat.

Useful Links & Resources