Trekking Mount Rinjani With a baby

The story of our trek to Mount Rinjani

Embarking on the ascent of Mount Rinjani, the iconic volcano on the Indonesian island of Lombok, was more than a journey; it was an exploration of nature, culture, and family resilience (especially for me, Vivien). We arrived the day before, and stayed in a nearby lodge (comprised in the price). The company also arranged delicious fried rice and smoothies so we didn’t have to think about organizing dinner. The lodge was modest but good enough.

The trail began at the Sembalun trailhead the next morning around 7.30am, where our backpacks were loaded with anticipation. The initial climb, surrounded by lush greenery, revealed glimpses of local wildlife, including playful monkeys that seemed to oversee our trek. Lombok Trekking Senaru guides, not just navigators but cultural storytellers, shared tales of the surrounding villages, adding layers of meaning to each step. We took 4 breaks in total, evenly dispatched based on difficulty. The total ascent took about 8 hours. What was difficult in my opinion was the constant steepness (no ups and downs, just up, up and up).

The rocky terrain and steep ascents challenged our physical limits, but the promise of the summit and the stunning views ahead fueled our determination . The porters from Lombok Trekking Senaru were unsung heroes, not only carrying the load but also enriching the journey with their local wisdom and good freshly cooked meals (so fresh, they actually prepared the vegetables and everything from scratch).

Arriving at Plawangan Sembalun, our campsite for the night, the local cuisine served up by Lombok Trekking Senaru was a delightful surprise. Hot meals, including their signature noodles, tasted like a warm embrace at an altitude of 2,639 meters. The chilly night was softened by the shared warmth of the food and the camaraderie around the campfire.

Under the star-studded night sky, the cold was manageable but present (we were happy we packed some jumpers and trousers as the sleeping bags weren’t crazy thick). Bundling our little one in layers, we huddled together for warmth, the cosmos above us offering a celestial spectacle.

The final push to the summit commenced before dawn, with headlamps guiding our way. The panoramic sunrise from the top was nothing short of magical, the entire island of Lombok unveiled in the soft morning light. The sense of achievement was palpable and weirdly the legs were still holding it together.

The ascent wasn't without its curveballs. Rain, unexpected and persistent, showered us three times, slowing our pace. The rocky descent became slippery, demanding extra caution. Yet, guided by Lombok Trekking Senaru, what could have been challenges became unexpected delights. Going down was challenging for different reasons and I would really recommend to do a better job than me at stretching, especially the ankles. I was very very slippery and therefore it took us probably around 5 hours instead of the 4 initially expected.

Our agency Lombok Trekking Senaru cost us $160 per person (free for Scarlett) and we were pretty happy everything. It was not just an investment in a climb; it was an investment in an experience and we think we had a good deal. The journey, filled with cultural insights, unexpected joys, and the raw beauty of nature, became a narrative etched in our family lore. So, if you ever consider conquering Rinjani, entrust your adventure to the capable hands of Lombok Trekking Senaru – a choice that transforms a climb into an unforgettable odyssey.

NB: please tip the porters if you go, these guys are superheroes