Mount Rinjani Expedition 5D/4N Senaru Ascent – Sembalun Descent

Difficulty: Strenuous | For Veteran Hikers Only

Mount Rinjani Expedition highlights

Take on the ultimate Mount Rinjani expedition through the dense rainforest trail to the summit and sacred Segara Anak crater lake. The expedition starts from Senaru Village at 601 meters above sea level. We trek uphill through the ancient tropical rainforest, climbing steadily to the Senaru crater rim at 2,641 MASL for the first night’s camp overlooking the lake. At midnight, we begin the summit attack from the Senaru side. Reach the top of Mount Rinjani at 3,726 MASL for a breathtaking 360° sunrise over Lombok, Bali, and Sumbawa. We then descend to Segara Anak Lake at 2,000 MASL. Rejuvenate your muscles by soaking in the natural volcanic hot springs before the long climb up to the Sembalun crater rim. After camping on the savanna, we trek down through the vast grasslands. Your Mount Rinjani expedition ends in Sembalun Village. This challenging route is perfect for trekkers seeking a true jungle ascent and the golden savanna descent.

Mount Rinjani Expedition itinerary :

Day 1 | Arrival – Senaru

We welcome you at Lombok International Airport. Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through Pusuk Pass, where friendly grey monkeys greet you along the winding road. We arrive at the tranquil village of Senaru, nestled at the foot of the great volcano. As the afternoon unfolds, we stretch our legs with a gentle walk to Sendang Gile Waterfall, where cold mountain water crashes down the cliffs. Back at the hotel, breathe in the fresh air and get a good night’s sleep. The mountain awaits.

Day 2 | Into the Emerald Canopy – The Path to the Rim

Elevation Gain: +2,040m | Trek Time: ∼8 hours

Dawn breaks over Senaru. After a hearty breakfast and park check-in, we step into the ancient rainforest. This is the legendary Senaru trail – a true test of endurance. The path climbs relentlessly through towering trees and thick jungle, from Post I to Post III. We pause for lunch beneath the canopy, listening to the sounds of the wild. The final push to the crater rim is the toughest, but the reward is heavenly. As you emerge from the forest at Plawangan Senaru, 2,641m above sea level, the world opens up. Before you lies Segara Anak, a sacred crescent lake far below, with Rinjani’s peak piercing the clouds. We pitch our tents on the edge of this giant caldera. Tonight, you dine with a galaxy of stars.

Day 3 | Touch the Sky – The Ultimate Day

Elevation: 3,726m Summit | Trek Time: ∼13 hours

We rise long before the sun at 1:30 AM. Fueled by hot coffee and determination, we begin our pilgrimage to the roof of Lombok. Headlamps illuminate the volcanic ash underfoot as we zigzag up the ridge. The air gets thinner, the wind colder. Step by step, you conquer the darkness. And then, you stand on the summit of Mount Rinjani. At 3,726 MASL, you are on top of the island. The sun ignites the horizon, revealing Bali’s Mount Agung, Sumbawa, and the entire Nusa Tenggara chain in a 360° masterpiece. This is your moment. We make our way back to base camp for a well-earned second breakfast. The journey continues as we descend into the heart of the volcano to Segara Anak Lake. Here, you soak your tired muscles in the volcanic hot springs while eagles soar overhead. After lakeside lunch, one final challenge awaits: the long climb out of the caldera to Plawangan Sembalun. We camp on the open savanna as the sun sets behind the rim. You’ve earned this rest.

Day 4 | The Golden Grasslands – Farewell to the Mountain

Descent: -2,039m | Trek Time: ∼5 hours

Wake up to a sunrise that paints the savanna gold. After breakfast, we begin our final descent through the vast, rolling grasslands of Sembalun. The trail is kinder here, offering sweeping views all the way down. This is where you reflect on what you’ve achieved. We reach Sembalun Village by midday, where a vehicle awaits to bring you back to Senggigi for hotel accommodation. You leave the mountain behind, but you take its spirit with you.

Day 5 | Departure

Enjoy the last day holiday at the hotel while waiting for pick up service to the airport to onward the trip to the next destination.

Mount Rinjani Expedition fare includes :

~ 1 night standard room with breakfast at your hotel in Senaru on day 1
~ 1 night standard room with breakfast at your choice hotel in Senggigi on day 4
~ Professional trekking guide, trekking porters, Entrance fee at Rinjani National Park
~ Full board meals during the expedition, sleeping bag, mattress, and camping tent
~ All transfers with air-conditioned vehicle

Mount Rinjani Expedition fare excludes :

~ Airport tax, mini bar, phone, laundry, flashlight head
~ Tips for porters, trekking guide, and driver
~ Other personal expenses