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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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OPERATED AND LICENSED
BY
DE TOURS and TRAVEL SERVICE LTD.
PT. DE TROPIS HOLIDAY TOURS and TRAVEL SERVICE LTD.
License: 707/B.2/BPW/IX/96
Jl. Sampdoria No. 28, Puri Meninting, Batu Layar, Lombok –
Indonesia.
Phone : + 62-370-646746, 6609472, 6609477 Facsimile: + 62-370-646076
E-mail : info@lombokvillas.org |
