Mount Rinjani Pack-In Pack-Out System (2026): Environmental & Waste Rules Explained (Podcast)

Full Transcript

Welcome to the Mount Rinjani and Lombok Podcast by Rinjani Dawn Adventures.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the Mount Rinjani Pack-In Pack-Out System, and explaining how environmental rules on the mountain have evolved in 2026.

If you’re planning a climb, this matters.

Mount Rinjani is one of Indonesia’s most important conservation areas.

It forms part of the Rinjani-Lombok UNESCO Global Geopark.

It is a protected biosphere reserve.

And it is sacred to local communities.

But over the past decade, increasing visitor numbers created a serious challenge.

Waste.

There were periods when rubbish became visible along sections of the trail.

Especially during peak season.

And after large cultural or religious gatherings near Lake Segara Anak.

At one stage, bins were placed at certain rest stops.

In theory, this was intended to reduce litter.

In practice, it did not work.

Bins overflowed.

Wildlife scattered rubbish.

Collection systems were inconsistent.

Some rest areas appeared untidy.

National and international media reported on the issue.

And honestly, the criticism was justified.

The mountain needed a stronger system.

The National Park Authority recognised something important.

Waste management could not rely on collection alone.

It needed accountability.

That is where the Mount Rinjani Pack-In Pack-Out System began.

Instead of relying on bins or post-season clean-ups, the system places responsibility directly on each trekking group.

If you bring it in, you carry it out.

Simple.

But structured.

This environmental framework works alongside the updated Mount Rinjani National Park SOP.

It shifts the focus from reaction to prevention.

From cleaning up after the fact to stopping waste before it becomes a problem.

And while the system continues to evolve, it represents a major step forward for environmental protection on Mount Rinjani.

Now let’s look at how the Pack-In Pack-Out system works in practice.

The Mount Rinjani Pack-In Pack-Out System operates in four structured stages.

Stage one.

Pre-trek waste declaration.

Before entering the park, groups must declare items likely to generate waste.

Reusable containers are encouraged.

Single-use styrofoam, glass, and cans are not permitted under current regulations.

This forces environmental planning before the trek even begins.

Stage two.

Pack-in inspection at the gate.

Park officers inspect declared items.

Waste-producing materials are recorded.

There is now a documented record of what enters the mountain.

That creates traceability.

Stage three.

Responsibility during the trek.

Burning waste is prohibited.

Burying waste is prohibited.

Disposal near water sources is strictly forbidden.

Everything must be carried out.

Licensed operators are expected to enforce this strictly.

Stage four.

Pack-out verification at exit.

When your group descends, waste is checked against the original declaration.

If declared items are missing, penalties may apply under the updated SOP.

This is what makes the system effective.

Accountability at entry.

Verification at exit.

Now here is something important.

Most licensed trekking organisers operate responsibly and follow environmental guidelines carefully.

However, extremely low-budget or unlicensed operators sometimes cut corners.

That is why choosing a licensed operator matters.

Not only for safety.

But for environmental protection.

At Rinjani Dawn Adventures, we do not simply comply with the Pack-In Pack-Out system.

We go beyond it.

We regularly participate in clean-up initiatives.

We remove rubbish left behind by other groups.

Because if you benefit from the mountain, you help maintain it.

If you are planning to climb Mount Rinjani in 2026, here is what this means for you.

Choose a licensed operator.

Expect inspections at entry and exit.

Bring reusable containers.

And be prepared to carry all waste out.

Mount Rinjani is a protected ecosystem.

It is a sacred site.

And it is a shared responsibility between the National Park, operators, guides, and visitors.

Sustainable trekking is not optional.

It is essential.

If you would like a full written breakdown of the Mount Rinjani Pack-In Pack-Out System, including links to the updated SOP, you can find the complete guide on our website at rinjanidawnadventures.com.

Thank you for listening to the Mount Rinjani and Lombok Podcast by Rinjani Dawn Adventures.

Trek responsibly.

Respect the mountain.

And we’ll see you on the trail.