Senaru Trekking Trail Overview
Senaru Trail is one of the most popular and iconic trails to reach Mount Rinjani’s Crater Rim. It combines breathtaking natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. Beginning in Senaru Village on the northern side of Mount Rinjani, this trail is a favorite for trekkers seeking to explore lush tropical rainforests and enjoy stunning vistas of Segara Anak Lake and Mount Baru Jari.
Compared to the more challenging Sembalun route, the Senaru trail is relatively easier, making it a great choice for those who want to reach the Crater Rim and take in spectacular views without attempting the summit. Along the way, trekkers will have ample opportunities to observe wildlife and fully immerse themselves in the surrounding nature
Rest Stops Along the Senaru Trail
Pos 1 (915 meters above sea level)
Pos 1 serves as the first rest stop on the Senaru Trail, located roughly 1 to 1.5 hours into the trek. It marks the shift from the village’s agricultural landscape to the lush tropical rainforest. The cool, shaded environment at this stop provides a welcome break from the tropical heat, giving trekkers the chance to hydrate and catch their breath before heading deeper into the forest
Pos 2 (1,500 meters above sea level)
At Pos 2, the forest grows denser, signaling the trek’s elevation gain. Trekkers will begin to feel the change in altitude as the path becomes steeper. This spot is an ideal location to rest and recharge before pushing onward into the thicker jungle. From here, the trail will continue to climb toward the treeline, so it’s a perfect place to prepare for the more challenging sections ahead.
Pos 3 (2,000 meters above sea level)
Pos III lies just beneath the Senaru Crater Rim, offering a peaceful and scenic spot for trekkers to rest. For those ready for the final stretch, it’s a short yet challenging ascent to the Crater Rim, where even more breathtaking vistas await.
Pos Extra (2,200 meters above sea level)
Pos Extra is an unofficial resting spot located just above Pos 3. While it is no longer officially maintained, it provides a peaceful place to pause before the final ascent to the Crater Rim. This stop offers a chance to relax and prepare mentally for the final push toward the summit area.
Senaru Crater Rim (2,461 meters above sea level)
The Senaru Crater Rim is the ultimate destination for trekkers following the Senaru route. At 2,461 meters, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning Segara Anak Lake, the active Baru Jari Volcano, and the summit of Mount Rinjani itself. This is one of the best spots for both sunrise and sunset photography, as the Crater Rim provides a spectacular backdrop of volcanic landscapes. The view of the summit gives trekkers a real sense of the immense scale of Mount Rinjani, and it’s an unforgettable experience for all who reach this point.
Highlights of the Senaru Trail
- Tropical Rainforests – The trek begins through lush rainforests, immersing you in a rich ecosystem filled with diverse flora and fauna.
- Scenic Crater Rim Views – As you ascend, the trail offers stunning panorama of Segara Anak Lake and Mount Baru Jari, culminating in panoramic views from the Crater Rim.
- Wildlife Encounters – Keep an eye out for unique wildlife, including various bird species and perhaps even monkeys, as you journey through the forest.
- Sunset– The Senaru Crater Rim is a prime spot to catch magical and stunning sunset over the Mount Agung in Bali
- Cultural Experience – Starting from Senaru Village, the trail offers a glimpse into local Sasak culture, giving trekkers a deeper connection to the region.
Difficulty Level of the Senaru Trail
The Senaru Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek. While the first part of the trail is relatively easy, the higher you go, the steeper and more demanding the terrain becomes. Proper preparation and a good level of fitness are essential for a successful journey, especially if you plan to summit Mount Rinjani.