Strict limits have been introduced for ascents to the crater of the legendary Mount Rinjani on Lombok Island. Previously, hundreds of tourists gathered on the routes at the same time, turning the unique natural site into a crowded trail. Now the situation will change: from 2025, no more than 700 people will be allowed to climb Rinjani daily via all six official routes. The decision was made to protect the ecosystem and preserve the impressive landscapes that have made the volcano one of the best trekking destinations according to Lonely Planet.
The quota is distributed as follows: the Senaru and Sembalun routes each allow 150 people per day, Torean allows 100, and the remaining three routes — Timbanu, Tete Batu, and Aik Berik — also allow 100 each.
Senaru is a classic route with panoramas of the Segara Anak crater lake. It starts in the village of Senaru, passes through dense forest and traditional villages, where one can observe rituals of local elders. The journey to the campsite at altitude takes about 7-9 hours. This route is suitable for beginners and remains one of the most popular.
Sembalun starts from the eastern part of Lombok and features a gentle but long ascent through rice fields, meadows, forest, and savannah. It takes about 6-8 hours to reach the summit. It is the second most popular route thanks to the variety of landscapes and good infrastructure.
Torean is a route with wild landscapes, officially opened in 2021. It is called the “Jurassic Park trail” due to its waterfalls, canyons, and difficult terrain. The ascent takes up to 14 hours and is not recommended for beginners.
Timbanu starts in the southeast and follows the rocky southern ridge. It is one of the most extreme routes, designed for experienced climbers. The path takes 7 to 11 hours and leads through the forest, offering breathtaking views of the valleys.
Tete Batu is another route opened in 2021. It begins in the village of Loloan and leads to Segara Anak lake. The trail passes through a narrow and steep valley, requires at least 14 hours, and is suitable only for physically fit tourists.
Aik Berik is a moderately difficult route from Central Lombok. The journey to Pelawangan Umar May takes 9 to 13 hours. Campsites offer views of the lake before continuing the ascent.
Initially, the 150-person limit on Senaru caused protests among tour operators. Authorities raised the overall quota to 700 people but maintained limits on each route. This allowed for partial relief of popular trails and directed tourist flow to alternative routes.
On neighboring Bali, there are no quotas yet. Mount Batur receives 200-300 people daily, and up to 500 on weekends. In 2023, Governor Wayan Koster tried to completely ban ascents to the island's peaks.
Regardless of the island, there is a strict rule in Indonesia: climbing is only allowed in the company of a licensed guide. Solo hikes are prohibited. Violation results in deportation.
Additionally, many volcanoes are considered sacred. Agung on Bali, for example, closes annually during religious ceremonies. Rinjani was closed from February 10 to early April: during this time, mountain purification and sign installation took place.
The new rules are not a barrier, but an invitation to conscious tourism. You will need to book places in advance, choose a route according to your abilities, and take into account possible seasonal restrictions. In return, you will be rewarded with solitude, fresh air, vast landscapes, and a true sense of being at one with nature.
Source: cnnindonesia, kompas
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