We Climbed ACTIVE Volcano! Hiking Rinjani 3726M | Sembalun to Torean

Summary

Join an adventurous journey to Mount Rinjani, the second-highest active volcano in Indonesia. This epic 3-day trek takes you through stunning landscapes, from grassy fields to steep ascents, accompanied by a team of guides and porters. Experience the beauty of volcanic lakes, challenging summit climbs, and relaxing hot springs after a tough hike. The adventure highlights the camaraderie, breathtaking views, and the incredible service of the support team, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with surprises, challenges, and awe-inspiring moments in nature.

Takeaways

• 😀 The adventure begins with a hike to Mount Rinjani, Indonesia's second-highest active volcano, with an expedition lasting three days and two nights in the volcano area.
• 😀 A support team of a guide and two porters help carry supplies and cook meals, making the hike manageable despite its challenges.
• 😀 The hike includes an 8-hour first day, with 2,800 meters of vertical ascent, testing physical endurance and requiring hydration in the hot climate.
• 😀 Frequent rest stops along the trail offer opportunities for snacks and refreshments, although prices rise as hikers ascend.
• 😀 Surprising moments like receiving Silver Queen Chunky chocolate and a delicious lunch from the porters bring joy and comfort during the hike.
• 😀 The hike includes tough uphill sections, with the most challenging part being the steep 500-meter ascent from position 3 to position 4.
• 😀 Despite the difficulties, the trek is rewarding with views and experiences that make the challenges worth it, including camping with luxurious amenities.
• 😀 At camp, hikers enjoy a hot curry dinner and stargazing, with a clear sky revealing an incredible number of stars, despite missing a sunset.
• 😀 The summit climb starts at 2:30 AM, reaching the top of Mount Rinjani at 3,726 meters, where the view is partially obscured by clouds but still breathtaking.
• 😀 The descent is tricky, with loose rocks and steep inclines, but the final stretch offers scenic views of Lake Sagara Anak and a relaxing private hot spring.
• 😀 The Torean route, with its beautiful valleys and waterfalls, offers a quieter alternative to other routes, though the final hike is longer and more challenging than expected.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the hike described in the video?

The main goal is to hike to the summit of Mount Rinjani, the second highest active volcano in Indonesia, and to explore its surroundings, including camping in the volcano area for three days.

What kind of support team is involved in the hike?

The support team consists of a guide and two porters. The porters are responsible for carrying camping supplies, food, drinks, and other necessary items. They also cook the meals during the expedition.

How does the group feel about the porters and their work?

The group expresses deep appreciation for the porters, calling them heroes due to the challenging nature of the hike. They acknowledge that the porters carry heavy loads, often in flip-flops, and help make the journey possible.

What is the significance of the check on the participants' health before starting the hike?

The health check, including a blood pressure test, highlights the physical demands of the hike. It ensures that participants are physically ready for the challenging climb ahead.

What role does food play during the hike?

Food is vital for maintaining energy throughout the hike. The group mentions the importance of staying hydrated and fueled, especially since they are covering a lot of vertical distance each day. Meals are prepared by the porters and provide the necessary energy for the challenging journey.

What challenges did the group face during the hike to the summit?

The group faced steep terrain, loose rocks, and strong winds while hiking to the summit. The final part of the summit climb was particularly difficult, with slippery sand and rocks, making it hard to make progress. They also encountered a cloud that made visibility poor and conditions extremely cold.

How did the weather impact the group’s experience during the hike?

The weather played a significant role in the hike, especially when a strong wind and humid cloud made conditions difficult during the summit climb. However, the weather cleared up on their way down, providing beautiful views of the Rinjani caldera and surrounding area.

What is the significance of the hot spring experience after the hike?

After the strenuous hike, the group enjoyed a well-deserved relaxing time in a private hot spring. This was seen as a luxurious and rejuvenating way to recover after the physical exertion of the trek, especially since they hadn't had a chance to shower during the hike.

Why did the group choose the Torean route for the descent?

The group opted for the Torean route because of the poor weather forecast for the Senaru route, which was expected to bring heavy rain. The Torean route offered a more favorable option and included beautiful views and waterfalls.

How did the group feel at the end of the hike?

At the end of the hike, the group felt accomplished but exhausted. They had walked much more than expected—13 kilometers instead of the anticipated 9—and they were ready to rest after completing the challenging journey.