I cried 9 times hiking Mount Rinjani ⛰️🌄
As tough as it looks and sounds, Mount Rinjani is definitely not for the weak but I still decided to do it.
With no prior hiking experience, I decided to take this on purely to challenge myself and honestly, it was the best decision I have ever made.
Would I do it again? Yes, definitely.
I chose the 2D1N route while the others in my group did the 3D2N route. I went with a tour group, and everything was included in the package (transport, accoms, food etc). I just had to bring myself, my hiking gear, and of course, clothes for the hike.
If you’re planning to hike Mount Rinjani, here are some tips from my experience:
☀️ Just do it. You will probably start regretting it about an hour into the hike, but I can guarantee it will be worth it.
☀️ Do your research and get a proper tour guide. Ask questions if you are unsure. My guide spoke English and clearly explained the route, meals, and daily agenda, which really reassured me.
☀️ Pack only what you need. Don’t overpack, be smart and keep it light !
☀️ Bring snacks!!!!! I really regretted not bringing extra snacks. I got so hungry in the middle of the night and had nothing with me 😭
☀️ Wear proper hiking gear and shoes. I saw people hiking in slides.. yes, NIKE SLIDES. The rocks are slippery, and without proper shoes and hiking stick, you can easily slip and fall.
☀️ Literally, pause, breathe, and take it all in. I barely used my phone during the hike, and it allowed me to truly appreciate the fresh air and Mother Nature.
☀️ Be grateful to your group, tour guide, and porters. Say less.. you are with them for 2–3 days. They were my biggest motivation. Without them, I probably wouldn’t have even reached the summit.
☀️ The summit… I don’t even know where to begin. I cried multiple times on the way up. My knees were hurting, I only had one hiking stick (please bring TWO.. it will save you so much pain). For every two steps forward, I slid one step back and that was on me for only bringing one hiking stick.
☀️ I didn’t catch the sunrise at the summit because it took me longer, but once I reached the summit, everything changed. My hard work and tears paid off.
My mantra the whole time?
PAIN IS TEMPORARY BUT SWAG IS FOREVER.
Anyway,
Climb that mountain, girl 🌋✨
Hiking Mount Rinjani is not just a physical challenge but also a profound mental and emotional experience. Many first-timers underestimate the difficulty of this trek, especially if you choose the popular 2-day 1-night (2D1N) route. From personal experience, the steep inclines combined with unpredictable weather can quickly drain your energy and test your perseverance. It’s essential to prepare properly. Aside from packing light and ensuring you have the right hiking shoes, I highly recommend bringing two hiking sticks. They make an enormous difference in stabilizing yourself on slippery volcanic rocks, as I learned the hard way. Slipping on loose stones or wet areas is common, so grip and balance are key. Nutrition also plays an enormous role. I deeply regretted not bringing enough snacks to sustain my energy, especially for the nighttime ascent when you might find yourself hungry and fatigued. Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits are compact and perfect for quick boosts. Guides and porters are invaluable—they not only carry gear but provide motivation and safety advice. Choose a reputable guide who communicates well and explains the trail details clearly. This reassurance can make the difference between overwhelming anxiety and confidence. One surprising aspect of this trek is how detaching from your phone or camera helps you connect with the environment. I barely used mine and instead focused on the fresh air, sounds, and sights around me. This approach made the exhausting moments more bearable and the summit moment more meaningful. Finally, be compassionate with yourself. I cried multiple times on the climb—whether from pain, frustration, or sheer awe at the beauty surrounding me. Such emotions are part of the journey. Remember that "pain is temporary but swag is forever," and reaching the summit is a victory that stays with you long after the hike. If you plan to trek Mount Rinjani, embrace the struggle, prepare well, and enjoy the unmatched rewards of nature’s grandeur.
Time to run it back once more