Mount Rinjani Trekking Info 2025 – What You Need to Know
Mount Rinjani, the second-highest volcano in Indonesia, is one of the most breathtaking trekking destinations in Southeast Asia. If you’re planning to trek Rinjani in 2025, it’s essential to understand the latest info to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s everything you need to know before you embark on this adventure
1. Permits & Regulations
To trek Mount Rinjani, you must obtain a trekking permit issued by the Rinjani National Park Authority
1. Why Do You Need a Permit?
A trekking permit is mandatory for all trekkers entering Mount Rinjani National Park. The permit is required to:
- Ensure compliance with conservation policies.
- Control the number of trekkers to minimize environmental impact.
- Provide access to emergency services
2. Where to Get a Permit?
Trekkers can obtain a permit through:
- Official Online Booking System through E-Rinjani App available at Play store on Android or through registered Mount Rinjani trekking companies.
- Authorized Trekking Operators – Booking through a licensed trekking provider, which is included in the trekking package.
- National Park Entry Gates – Limited daily permits 240 trekkers at entry points (Senaru, Sembalun, Torean
3. Daily Quota & Advance Booking
- Limited slots per day (240 trekkers) at entry points Sembalun, Senaru and Torean
- Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (April–October).
- Last-minute permits are subject to availability.
4. Permit Fees (2025 Update)
Permit fees are subject to change annually. As of 2025, the fees are:
- International Trekkers: IDR 200,000 per person/day (~$13)
- Indonesian Trekkers: IDR 20,000 per person/day (~$3.07)
5. Required Documents for Permit Application
When applying for a permit, trekkers must provide:
- Your Details,
Trekking Registration Requirement
Full Name as per passport:
Phone Number
Date of Birth:
Height:
Weight:
Gender:
Passport Number:
Nationality:
Address:
E-mail: - Valid Passport or ID (for verification).
6. Can You Get a Refund for the Permit?
Personal cancellations (e.g., sickness, change of plans): is non-refundable unless you reschedule it
Final Tips for a Smooth Permit Process
- Book your permit early to secure your trekking dates.
- Carry a printed or digital copy of your permit during the trek.
- Follow all park rules to avoid fines or removal from the trail.
2. Trekking Routes & Entry Points
Mount Rinjani offers six official trekking routes, each with different difficulty levels, scenic views, and unique experiences. The choice of route depends on your trekking goals—whether you want to reach the summit, explore the crater lake, or enjoy a more relaxed hike.
Recommend Trekking Routes 2025
1. Sembalun Route (Best for Summiting Rinjani
- Starting Point: Sembalun Village (1,150m)
- Best For: Trekkers who want to reach the Rinjani summit (3,726m)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (Steep and exposed to the sun)
- Trek Duration: 2–4 days (depending on itinerary)
- Highlights:
Best route for reaching the summit
Beautiful open savannah landscapes
Less forested area (hotter during the day)
High chance of altitude sickness due to rapid elevation gain
Recommended Itinerary:
- 2D1N Sembalun–Summit Trek
- 3D2N Sembalun–Summit–Senaru Trek
- 4D3N Full Rinjani Experience
2. Senaru Route (Best for Scenic Views & Crater Rim)
- Starting Point: Senaru Village (600m)
- Best For: Trekkers who prefer scenic crater rim views over summiting
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Long and steep forest hike)
- Trek Duration: 2–3 days
- Highlights:
Dense tropical rainforest with rich wildlife
Stunning view from Senaru Crater Rim (2,641m)
Easier descent compared to Sembalun
X Does not go directly to the summit (requires additional route)
Recommended Itinerary:
- 2D1N Senaru Crater Rim Trek
- 2D1N Senaru Second Summit Trek
- 3D2N Senaru – Lake – Torean Trek
- 3D2N Senaru – Lake – Summit Trek
- 4D3N Senaru – Lake – Summit Trek
3. Torean Route (Best for Canyon view & Hot Springs)
- Starting Point: Torean Village (600m)
- Best For: Trekkers looking for a less crowded and scenic route
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challeging (steep trail)
- Trek Duration: 3–4 days
- Highlights:
Unique rock formations and waterfalls
Natural hot springs near the crater lake
Steep trails
Recommended Itinerary:
- 3D2N Torean–Lake–Senaru Crater Rim Trek
- 3D2N Torean – Lake–Summit Trek
3. Guide & Porter for Mount Rinjani Trekking
1. Why Are Guides & Porters being Highly Recommended?
Hiring guide and porter is not mandatory but highly recommended for all trekkers in Mount Rinjani National Park.
- Trekker Safety – Prevent accidents, provide navigation, and handle emergencies.
- Environmental Conservation – Ensure that waste is carried out and rules are followed.
- Supporting Local Communities – Provides income and employment for local guides and porters.
2. What Are the Roles of Guides & Porters
1. Trekking Guide Responsibilities
A trekking guide is required for:
- Navigation & Route Safety – Ensure trekkers stay on designated trails.
- Emergency Assistance – Handle altitude sickness, injuries, and rescues.
- Weather & Risk Assessment – Make informed decisions about trekking conditions.
- Cultural & Environmental Education – Provide insights into local culture, wildlife, and conservation.
- Coordination with National Park Authorities – Ensure compliance with trekking permits and regulations.
Guide-to-Trekker Ratio: 1 guide per 4–6 trekkers (varies by operator).
2. Porter Responsibilities
Porters play a vital role in making the trek comfortable by carrying essential supplies. Their tasks include:
- Carrying Equipment & Supplies – Tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear, food, and trekkers’ extra luggage.
- Camp Setup – Setting up tents, preparing meals, and organizing resting areas.
- Waste Management – Carrying trash back to base to protect the environment.
Porter Load Limit: Each porter carries a maximum of 20–25 kg (to prevent overloading).
Important: Porters do not carry personal items unless arranged in advance. Trekkers should carry their own daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and warm clothing
3. Hiring Licensed Guides & Porters
How to Hire a Guide & Porter?
Guides and porters must be officially registered with Mount Rinjani National Park. You can hire them through:
- Authorized Trekking Companies – Booking through a licensed ensures experienced and well-trained guides.
- National Park Registration Offices – Guides and porters must be assigned before entering the park.
- Cost of Hiring a Guide & Porter (2025 Updated Prices)
- Trekking Guide: IDR 400,000–500,000 per day (~$25–$31)
- Porter: IDR 250,000–350,000 per day (~$15–$22)
Costs vary depending on route, group size, and services included (e.g., food, camping equipment).
4.Ethical Trekking: Fair Treatment of Guides & Porters
- To promote responsible tourism, trekkers should ensure guides and porters are treated fairly:
- Respect Load Limits – Porters carry max 20–25 kg; avoid overloading them.
- Fair Wages & Tips – Pay fairly and tip generously for good service (IDR 100,000–200,000 per trekker is recommended).
- Include Porters in Meals – Ethical trekking companies ensure guides and porters eat the same meals as trekkers.
5. Can You Trek Rinjani Without a Guide & Porter?
No, solo trekking is strictly prohibited in 2025 due to safety concerns. A licensed guide is required for all trekking routes.
Porters are optional but highly recommended for a comfortable experience, especially on longer treks.
6. Choosing the Right Trekking Operator
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, book with a licensed and ethical trekking company. Look for:
- Registered with Rinjani National Park
- Experienced & trained guides (speak English)
- Eco-friendly policies (responsible waste disposal)
- Fair treatment of porters (proper wages & working conditions)
4. Mount Rinjani Zero Waste 2025
Mount Rinjani Zero Waste 2025 is an initiative aimed at making Rinjani a waste-free trekking destination by enforcing strict environmental policies and promoting sustainable tourism. The goal is to eliminate waste pollution, reduce plastic use, and ensure all trekkers, guides, and porters follow eco-friendly practices.
Key Features of Mount Rinjani Zero Waste 2025:
- Mandatory Waste Collection – Every trekking group must carry out all their waste; park rangers inspect bags at checkpoints.
- Ban on Single-Use Plastics – No plastic bags, disposable bottles, or non-biodegradable items allowed.
- Eco-Friendly Trekking Gear Encouraged – Trekkers must bring reusable water bottles, cloth bags, and biodegradable hygiene products.
- Waste Management Stations at Entry/Exit Points – Special bins for recycling and proper waste disposal.
- Trekking Companies’ Responsibility – Licensed trekking companies must ensure guides and porters follow zero-waste guidelines.
- Community & Conservation Programs – Tree planting, trail clean-ups, and local waste reduction initiatives.
This movement is inspired by the growing concerns over plastic waste on the trails and aims to make Mount Rinjani a model for sustainable adventure tourism in Indonesia.
5. Best Time to Trek & Seasonal Restrictions
Dry Season (April – November) → Best Time to Trek
The ideal trekking period is during the dry season when weather conditions are stable.
- April – June: Lush green rinjani landscapes, clear skies, and fewer crowds.
- July – August: Peak season, best for experienced trekkers. However, it gets crowded.
- September – November: Fewer trekkers, cooler temperatures, and great visibility. From our experience it is windy sometimes in September – October
Why Trek During the Dry Season?
- Stable weather – Low risk of rain, making trails safer.
- Best sunrise & crater views – Less cloud cover.
- More wildlife sightings – Active birds, monkeys, and rare species.
- Accessible routes – All entry points (Senaru, Sembalun, Torean) are open.
Tip: Book in advance if trekking in July or August, as slots fill up quickly!
1. Seasonal Restrictions & Trekking Closures
Rainy Season (January – March) → Park Closed
Mount Rinjani closes annually during the peak of the rainy season (January – March) due to:
- Landslide risks – Heavy rainfall makes trails dangerous.
- Flash floods & strong winds – Increased risk of accidents.
- Trail maintenance & ecosystem recovery – The park authorities allow nature to regenerate.
Important: The National Park Authority strictly enforces this closure, and trekking is not allowed for safety reasons.
2. Temperature & Weather Conditions by Month
Month | Weather Condition | Trekking Suitability |
January – March | Heavy rain, strong winds, landslides | Closed for trekking |
April – June | Green Rinjani landscapes, mild weather | Best time to trek (less crowded) |
July – August | Peak season, dry & cool | Great visibility but crowded |
September – November | Fewer crowds, sometimes windy | Good trekking condition, but sometimes windy |
December | Light to heavy rain, humid | Some sections are unreachable |
3. Best Time to Visit Mount Rinjani Based on Preferences
- For the Best Scenery → April – June (Post-rainy season, lush green rinjani lanscape)
- For Fewer Crowds → September – November (Less traffic on trails)
- For Adventure Seekers → July – August (Challenging but busy)
- For Beginners → April – June (Mild weather, safer conditions)
The best time to trek Mount Rinjani is April – November, during the dry season when conditions are safest. The park closes from January – March for conservation and safety reasons.
6. Safety & Health Precautions
Trekking Mount Rinjani is a rewarding but physically demanding adventure. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, trekkers must follow important safety and health precautions.
1. Physical Fitness & Preparation
Mount Rinjani is a challenging trek with steep climbs and long hiking hours. Proper physical preparation is essential.
Recommended Training (4–6 weeks before trek)
- Cardio workouts – Running, cycling, or hiking to build endurance.
- Leg strength exercises – Squats, lunges, and stair climbing to strengthen muscles.
- Practice hiking – Train with a loaded backpack on uneven terrain.
Tip: If you have knee problems, bring trekking poles to reduce strain
2. Altitude Sickness & How to Prevent It
Rinjani’s summit is 3,726 meters (12,224 feet) above sea level. Trekking at high altitudes can cause Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Common Symptoms of AMS
- Headache
- Nausea or dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
How to Prevent AMS
- Acclimatize properly – Take it slow, don’t rush the ascent.
- Stay hydrated – Drink at least 3 liters of water per day.
- Avoid alcohol & smoking – These can make symptoms worse.
- Eat high-energy foods – Carbohydrates help with altitude adaptation.
- Use altitude sickness medication if needed – Consult your doctor about Diamox (Acetazolamide).
Tip: If you feel sick, descend immediately to a lower altitude. Guides are trained to assist.
3. Essential Safety Gear
Having the right trekking gear is key to staying safe.
- Trekking boots – Waterproof and with a good grip for rocky paths.
- Trekking poles – Reduce stress on knees and improve stability.
- Headlamp or flashlight – Essential for the early morning summit hike.
- Gloves & warm clothing – Temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F) at night.
- Rain jacket – Weather can change suddenly.
- First aid kit – Include painkillers, band-aids, antiseptic, and personal medications.
Best Trekking Bag: A 30–40L backpack is ideal for carrying essentials without excess weight.
4. Hydration & Safe Drinking Water
Dehydration is a common issue on Rinjani due to the long trekking hours.
- Drink 3–4 liters of water daily to prevent altitude sickness.
- Use water purification tablets – Water sources are available but always purify before drinking.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks – They can dehydrate you.
Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle or hydration pack for easy access
5. Food & Nutrition During the Trek
Trekking Rinjani requires high energy, so proper nutrition is important.
- Carbohydrate-rich meals – Rice, noodles, and potatoes for energy.
- Proteins – Eggs, chicken, and tofu to help muscle recovery.
- Fruits & vegetables – Bananas, oranges, and greens for vitamins.
- Energy snacks – Bring nuts, chocolate, and protein bars for quick energy
Tip: Eat small meals frequently to maintain energy levels
6. Emergency Situations & Rescue Procedures
Although rare, emergencies (injuries, extreme weather, altitude sickness) can happen.
What to Do in an Emergency?
- Inform your guide immediately – They are trained in first aid.
- Descend if symptoms of altitude sickness worsen.
- Use a satellite phone (if available) – Some guides carry them for emergencies.
- Know the evacuation routes – The fastest way down is usually Sembalun or Torean
Tip: Weather conditions can change fast. Always listen to your guide’s advice.
Looking for a safe, responsible, and unforgettable trekking experience on Mount Rinjani
At Authentic Rinjani Trekking, we provide everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable adventure:
- Hassle-Free Permits & National Park Ticket Booking – We take care of all the paperwork so you can focus on the trek.
- Well-Chosen Trekking Routes – Whether you prefer the classic Sembalun & Senaru trails or the scenic Torean route, we guide you on the best path.
- Experienced & Professional Guides & Porters – Our team ensures a safe, informative, and enjoyable
- Rinjani Eco Trekking Tour – We follow the Zero Waste Policy to keep Rinjani clean and beautiful.
- Safety & Health Precautions – Altitude sickness prevention, proper hydration, and emergency preparedness are our top priorities.
Book your Mount Rinjani trekking package today with Authentic Rinjani Trekking!