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GUNUNG
RINJANI NATIONAL PARK LOMBOK ISLAND INDONESIA
There over 20 villages
surround Mt. Rinjani and there are many routes up
the mountain,
but the main access is from Senaru in the north and
Sembalun Lawang to the east. The challenging
three-day Rinjani Trek route from Senaru to the
crater rim (Plawangan), down to the stunning crater
lake then on to Sembalun Lawang, is considered one
of the best treks in South East Asia. Those heading
for the summit usually prefer to start in Sembalun
Lawang.
A model for ecotourism in Indonesia, the
community-based activities are focused on the
Rinjani Trek Centre in Senaru, the most popular
starting point for the tough trek. Developed with
New Zealand Government assistance since 1999, the
Rinjani Trek Centre embodies under one roof (satu
atap) the unique partnership of the National Park,
tourism industry and local communities that has been
forged to manage and protect the Rinjani mountain
environment.
WHAT YOU MIGHT SEE
Gunung Rinjani National Park lies within the major
transition zone (Wallacea) where the flora and fauna
of South East Asia makes a dramatic transition into
that which is typical of Australasia. The Park has a
rich variety of plants and animals, although they
can be hard to spot due to the terrain and
rainforest cover.
Sometimes seen early in the mornings is the rare
black Ebony leaf monkey, known locally as Lutung.
The Long tailed grey macaque or Kera is common in
Lombok and older males are seen on the crater rim.
Rusa deer are forest dwellers and are occasionally
seen along the Rinjani trek trail. The smaller
Barking deer or Kijang has an alarm call with a
distinct dog-like bark. Look for the disturbed
ground where the Wild pig or Babi hutan has been
foraging. Also found in the forest is the Leopard
cat or Bodok alas, Palm civet or Ujat and Porcupine
or Landak.
A variety of colourful birds live in the forests of
the Park. Perhaps the best-known icon of the Park is
the Sulphur Crested Cockatoo that is not found any
further west of Lombok. Many of the forest-dwelling
animals, insects, birds, civets and monkeys owe
their survival to the wild fig tree or Beringin as a
provider of food and shelter. The pine-like
Casuarina species, Cemara, are a feature of the
grassy higher slopes. Orchids or Anggrek are also a
feature of the grassland areas, as is Edelweiss or
Bunga Abadi growing above the tree line; it is a
beautiful icon of the Park and one of our best-known
sub-alpine plants.
Rinjani Trek Centre:
The Centre is located at the
trailhead above Senaru traditional village. It
offers information and displays for visitors on the
trek, the National Park, Sasak culture and a range
of activities available in Senaru.
Displays include maps, Park interpretation, village
walks and environmental guidelines. All trek
arrangements can be made here, cultural tours booked
and purchases made of local produce and handicrafts.
Park Fees: Fees are paid at the Rinjani Trek Centre.
They contribute to the protection, maintenance and
management of the National Park, Rinjani Trek route,
village attractions and visitor facilities.
Guides and Porters: Trained and licensed guides and
porters are available. You will need three days and
two nights to trek from Senaru via the spectacular
crater lake, to Sembalun Lawang (or the other way).
More time will be needed to explore the summit of
Mt. Rinjani.
All trek arrangements can be made and paid for at
the Rinjani Trek Centre. If not with a guide, please
ensure you are well equipped and have knowledge of
mountain safety.
Warnings:
The Rinjani Trek is a challenging mountain
walk and you must be prepared with good equipment,
warm and windproof clothing. Rinjani can attract
severe storms, lightening and strong winds. When the
weather is settled, the sun is intense and the
nights frosty. Parts of the trail are steep and
slippery. Beware of bad weather and risks of
exposure to the wet and cold (hypothermia). If
caught in an electrical storm, take shelter and
avoid prominent ridges. Beware of snakes, and
stinging insects and plants. Leeches can be a
nuisance in the wet season.
Volcanic Hazards:
Although Mt. Rinjani has not
erupted in recorded history, Mt. Baru (2,363m) in
the crater lake is an active volcano. It last
erupted dramatically in 1994. Check the notice
boards for recent hazards, and take advice from park
staff and guides.
Spring Water:
Fresh water springs are a feature of
the trek and determine campsites. Your guide knows
where these are. During the drier months
(July-September) some springs completely disappear.
Park staff and guides constantly monitor these water
sources to determine their abundance.
Radio Communications:
You are advised to ensure that
your guide is carrying a radio handset. Radios are
available for rent at the Rinjani Trek Centre. In
case of emergency the National Park authorities are
also equipped with radio communications.
Telephone Communications:
There is a satellite
telephone at the Rinjani Trek Centre and the number
is 086812104132. This is available for public use;
cost is dependent on call destination and duration
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