Mountains for the First Climb - Where to Go Instead of Agung and Rinjani

The recent death of a 27-year-old tourist from Brazil on Mount Rinjani shocked the public. The tourist was climbing the summit of Rinjani (3,726 meters) along with five friends and a local guide. However, even this did not prevent the tragedy. 

The accident quickly made international headlines and sparked a new wave of discussions about the readiness of rescue services and the responsibility of all hiking participants. Many locals suggest that the tragedy occurred because Juliana was a novice climber.

The incident has raised concerns among beginner tourists who want to try trekking on Indonesian trails. 

It's important to remember that even the most popular routes in Indonesia are challenging and not suitable for inexperienced tourists. Climbing mountains like Rinjani and Agung involves steep ascents and dangerous terrain. It's crucial not only to hire a local guide but also to ensure all necessary equipment is in place before setting out on the journey.

The accident is a warning for beginners: be cautious and find out in advance which mountains are safe for climbing before setting off. Before planning any mountain walk in Indonesia, even with a guide, it's important to realistically assess your abilities and be prepared for difficulties.

An excellent and wise decision would be to start your mountain hiking experience with simpler volcanoes. If you are determined to conquer the highest peak in Bali, Mount Agung, these hikes will be good preparation. The list of routes is perfect for those seeking not feats but a pleasant, albeit challenging, nature walk. A licensed guide is mandatory for any ascent. This is not only a safety issue but also a local law.

Located in Kintamani, Bangli. Watching the sunrise from the summit of Mount Batur is often a major motivation for tourists. The ascent is relatively short—only 2-3 hours—and the path is not too steep.

Mount Catur offers a shaded path through dense forest, making the hike cool and pleasant. The mountain is located in Bedugul. The atmosphere of the tropical forest, moderate temperature, and easy route make it suitable for beginners.

attracts tourists with the opportunity to see the panorama of Mount Agung from afar and follow a traditional path usually taken by pilgrims. The mountain is located in the Karangasem area.

Mount Abang - the third highest peak in Bali after Agung and Batukaru, offers an excellent alternative for those who want to climb higher without extreme challenges. The trail passes through dense forest, and from the summit, there are views of Lake Batur and Mount Agung.

Bromo is famous for its cosmic landscapes and an accessible trail suitable even for beginners. Here, you can watch the sunrise overlooking the volcanic caldera and surrounding mountains, ascending in 30–40 minutes along a sandy path.

Mount Ijen is known for its blue sulfur flames and acid-colored lake at the summit. The ascent takes 1.5–2.5 hours and requires caution, especially when descending into the crater, but is suitable for those wanting to experience true adventure.

The main feature of the mountain is its beautiful and vast savannas. At sunrise, there is a view of Mount Rinjani, creating unforgettable impressions. The ascent takes about 3-4 hours, and the route is easy, suitable for beginners. The mountain is located in East Lombok.

The route to Tambora is practically free of technical challenges like tree roots or large rocks. Located on Sumbawa Island, its scale and history make the ascent particularly interesting and beautiful for tourists.

Mount Kelimutu in Ende, Flores, is famous for its unique tri-colored lakes at the summit that change colors. The trail is short and easy, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Despite its considerable height, the trail to the summit is not steep and passes through forests and open fields with moderate slopes. The mountain is located in South Central Timor and is the highest peak on the island of Timor. From its slopes, you can enjoy views of meadows and forests not yet overrun by tourists.

Source: detik, balipost