Mount Rinjani 1-day itinerary

Start your day in Senaru, the main gateway village perched at 600m on Rinjani's northern slopes. Trek to Sendang Gile waterfall — a thundering 30-metre cascade surrounded by lush tropical forest. Continue 20 minutes uphill to the more secluded Tiu Kelep waterfall, where mist from the 45-metre drop creates natural rainbows in the morning light. The path is slippery but magical, passing giant ferns and jungle vines. Both waterfalls are fed by Rinjani's crater lake, and the water is surprisingly cold for the tropics. Grab breakfast at a local warung in Senaru — nasi goreng and black Lombok coffee for under $2.

Visit the Rinjani Trek Management Board office in Senaru to register and arrange your guided trek. All treks now require a licensed guide — independent trekking is not permitted since 2023. Compare packages from registered operators: a standard 2-day trek to the crater rim costs Rp 1,200,000–2,000,000 ($80–130) including guide, porter, meals, tent, and sleeping bag. Three-day treks adding the crater lake and hot springs cost Rp 1,800,000–2,500,000 ($120–160). Spend the afternoon acclimatising and exploring Senaru's traditional Sasak village — a living heritage compound with thatched-roof houses and animist traditions.

Walk to the Senaru crater rim viewpoint — a 15-minute stroll from the village — for sunset views across northern Lombok and the Gili Islands glittering in the strait. On clear evenings, Bali's Mount Agung is visible on the western horizon. Return for your trek briefing with your guide, who will outline the route, check your gear, and distribute rental equipment. Dinner at a Senaru guesthouse — expect simple but filling Indonesian fare: ayam bakar, tempeh, sambal, and rice. Early to bed — your 2am alarm comes fast.