The Ascent Begins

The anticipation was palpable as I stood at the base of Mount Rinjani, ready to embark on a three-day, two-night adventure that promised to be as challenging as it was rewarding. The journey began in Sembalun Village, where the air was crisp and the excitement was electric. As someone who has scaled peaks and traversed deserts, I was eager to see how Rinjani would measure up.

Our guide, JiNasti, or Nas as he preferred to be called, was a quiet but formidable presence. His fitness was evident in his swift, sure-footed movements, and his dedication to our safety was reassuring. Alongside him were his brother and brother-in-law, our porters, who carried our gear and prepared our meals. Their strength and hospitality were unmatched, and they made the trek feel less like a grueling climb and more like a well-supported adventure.

The first day was a gentle ascent through open grasslands, a deceptive prelude to the challenges that lay ahead. As we climbed higher, the terrain became steeper and more rugged, testing our endurance and resolve. But with each step, the views became more breathtaking, a reminder of why we push ourselves to these extremes.

Reaching the Summit

Day two began in the pre-dawn darkness, a time when the world is still and the air is filled with the promise of a new day. We set off at 3:00 am, our path illuminated by headlamps and the faint glow of the stars. The climb to the summit was a test of willpower, each step a battle against fatigue and the thin mountain air.

As the first rays of sunlight broke over the horizon, we reached the summit. The view was nothing short of spectacular, a panoramic vista of Lombok Island bathed in the golden light of dawn. It was a moment of triumph, a reminder of the beauty that awaits those who dare to venture beyond their comfort zones.

After soaking in the views, we descended to Segara Anak Lake, where the promise of a hot spring awaited. The porters had already set up camp and prepared a hearty lunch, their efficiency and care a testament to their dedication. As I soaked in the warm waters, the aches and pains of the climb melted away, replaced by a sense of peace and accomplishment.

The Descent and Reflection

The final day of our trek took us down to Senaru Village, a journey through lush tropical forests that felt like a world away from the barren heights of the summit. The descent was a time for reflection, a chance to process the experiences of the past few days and appreciate the camaraderie that had developed within our group.

Nas’s professionalism and commitment to our safety were evident throughout the trek. His decision to alter our route for safety reasons was a testament to his integrity, and it likely saved us from a more perilous path. It’s guides like Nas who make these adventures not only possible but also memorable.

As we reached the end of our journey, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experience. The challenges of Rinjani had pushed me to my limits, but they had also rewarded me with memories that would last a lifetime. For those seeking an adventure that combines physical challenge with breathtaking beauty, Rinjani Trek is an experience not to be missed.