The Level Of Difficulty In Climbing Mount Rinjani, Beginners Must Know!

Climbers at the top of Mount Rinjani (Canva)

YOGYAKARTA - Mount Rinjani on the island of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, is one of the most challenging and amazing climbing destinations in Southeast Asia. With a height of 3,726 meters above sea level, Rinjani is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia. Its beauty captivates many climbers from all over the world. However, behind the extraordinary crater panoramic and Segara Anak lake, Rinjani keeps a level of difficulty that cannot be underestimated.

The discourse on strict regulations for climbers has surfaced again after the tragic events that befell Juliana Marins, a Brazilian climber who died while climbing Mount Rinjani. This incident inspired the public and stakeholders about the importance of regulation and education in mountain climbing activities.

Chairman of the Indonesian Mountain Guide Association (APGI), Rahman Mukhlis emphasized that climbing tourism is included in the tourism category of special interest which is full of risks and uncertainties. It's not a matter of limiting who can climb mountains, but of arranging and classifying paths based on the level of difficulty.

"Renewable climbers, should choose a light mountain path first, then gradually go to a heavier lane," said Rahman in Happy Morning Indonesia Metro TV.

Mount Rinjani does offer an extraordinary adventure. However, the short-looking climbing distance often deceive many climbers. According to Yangyang Li, the marketing manager of adventure tourism companies in Indonesia, climbers often misasses Rinjani's challenges.

"Sometimes my client realized the distance was only 10 kilometers on the first day and thought it would be easy, because usually they walk 30 kilometers a day. I told them they needed to check the altitude - the first day we were going to climb more than 1,000 meters. It was very tiring," he said, quoted from Much Better Adventure.

The journey to the summit usually takes at least two days and one night, even the best plan even if it takes three days and two nights. The Summit attack, only about one kilometer from Pralawanan Sembalun to the summit, takes three hours to climb, with the condition of the path in the form of volcanic sand and sharp pebbles. Climbers must start before dawn, with cold temperatures stabbing, strong winds, and low visibility due to fog. This is not only a matter of physical strength, but also mental strength.

There are two main hiking trails, namely the Sembalun and Senaru routes. The Sembalun route is often chosen because it is relatively sloping at the beginning and directly leads to the summit. Meanwhile, the Senaru route is more suitable to enjoy the beauty of Segara Anak Lake and tropical forests without having to summit. Many novice climbers only reach the crater lip through the Senaru route to enjoy the view without climbing to the top.

However, Rinjani's climbing cannot be done carelessly. According to the rules of Mount Rinjani National Park, climbing can only be done with accredited guides. Some climbers often try to outsmart this rule, but it is highly recommended to follow organized climbs that include porters, logistics, and certified guides. This is not only for convenience, but also safety.

Rahman Mukhlis emphasized the importance of certification and training for mountain guides. Professional guides have the ability to navigate volcanic terrain, emergency handling, and understanding of extreme weather in the mountains. Education to guides must also be sustainable so that climbers' safety is guaranteed.

Starting from the 2024/2025 season, several Rinjani hiking trails that were damaged by the earthquake have been restored. However, the change in the terrain due to natural disasters makes climbing more difficult. Therefore, careful preparation, selection of routes that match your abilities, and use of experienced guides are non-negotiable.

It should be noted, Mount Rinjani is not only a beautiful place to enjoy, but also a challenging terrain that requires physical and mental readiness. Climbers are not only required to be strong in running, but also to understand risks, respect nature, and climb responsibly. The tragedy that befell Juliana Marins is a reminder of the importance of regulation, education, and professionalism in the world of mountain climbing.