|
WELCOME TO THE
RINJANI TREK
Rinjani
Trek Package
 |
GUNUNG RINJANI NATIONAL PARK
Mt. Rinjani forms the second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia, part of the celebrated "Ring of Fire". The dramatic landscape has been created over millions of years of cone-building, violent explosions, and erosion. Forested slopes rising directly from the sea create their own weather pattern and act as water-collectors for the whole of Lombok
For the people of Lombok, Sasak and Balinese alike, the volcano is revered as a sacred place and abode of deities. Segara Anak crater lake is the destination of thousands of pilgrims who place offerings in the water and bathe away disease in the hot springs. The endemic duck Belebis is found here and several species of fish are recorded. Mt. Rinjani, one of the over 40 National Parks throughout Indonesia, was established in 1997.
Over 20 villages surround 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 communitybased activities are focussed 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 atop) 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 (Wallaceae) where the flora and fauna of South East Asia makes a dramatic transition into that which is typical of Australasia. The Park hSs a rich variety of plants and animals, although they can be hard to spot due to the terrain and rainforest cover.
Somestimes 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 Ujot 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.
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 (2,351 m) 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. Ask for the rate chart
ENVIRONMENTAL CARE CODE
These guidelines help m i nim iselheft pact of your visit on the natural environment and also on other visitors. Help to keep the Park unspoiled for ftjt6e visitors.
Remove rubbish: Litter is unattractive, harmful to wildlife, and can increase disease. Plan your trip to minimise rubbish by not taking bottles and cans. Rinjani has a "pack it in - pack it out" policy, so be sure to carry out of the Park whatever you carry in.
Keep to the track: By keeping to the trail, you avoid trampling undergrowth and risking getting lost in the forest.
Camp with care: When camping, leave no trace of your visit.
Keep streams and lake clean: Wash well away from the water source by taking water in a container. As soap and detergent are harmful to the creatures that live in the streams and lake, drain used water into the ground.
Bury toilet waste: In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracks, campsites and shelters. Take care with fires. Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than fires. If you must use a fire, keep it small and make sure that the fire is out before leaving by dousing it with water and checking the ashes.
Respect cultural and natural heritage: Help protect the spiritual and historical significance of Mt. Rinjani by respecting our local culture. Conserve wildlife and plants of the National Park by not removing anything.
Consider other visitors: Walk quietly through the forest so that you do not disturb the wildlife that you and others have come to see.
Enjoy your visit: Enjoy your visit and before leaving the area take one last look - will the next visitor know that you have been here?
NON -TREKKING OPTIONS
ROUND RINIANI DRIVE
This 10 hour day trip circuit drive around Mt. Rinjani passes through Rinjani National Park, and includes beautiful landscapes and many highlights of north and mid Lombok. The scenic route climbs across mountain passes with roadside monkeys, and you can stretch your legs for a half hour walk to the popular local cultural attraction, the healing hot spring at Sebau deep in the forest. Optional stops include colourful local markets, several traditional village visits, the ancient 16th century bamboo mosque at Bayan, the Balinese Narmada summer palace, and visits to the Rinjani gateway villages of Senaru and Sembalun Lawang.
SENARU
The village of Senaru, an easy 2.5 hours drive from Mataram or Senggigi, is the main access to the National Park. As a non-trekking destination it is also popular - a cool, flowerfilled mountain village stretching along a hillside spur above Bayan. Senaru has a range of accommodation in simple home stays (losmen), and a number of cafes serving delicious local specialities. The Rinjani Trek Centre at the trailhead offers displays, ecotourism activities, and visitor information. Village guides, including several local women, escort visits to the adjacent traditional village, three waterfalls, and a number of Village Walks. Circuits include the one hour Rice Terraces and Waterfall Walk, or discover the highlights of Senaru in a lovely half-day Senaru Panorama Walk.
SEMBALUN LAWANG
Sembalun Lawang is set in an ancient and fertile caldera to the east of Mt. Rinjani, the preferred access route for summiteers. The rich soil produces high quality market garden crops, including the famous garlic and rice, staple of local farmers. Seismic activity is monitored daily at the government Rinjani Volcanology Centre. The beautiful valley of Sembalun is also known for its hill walks, recently restored traditional village, active cultural performers and local weavers. Some home stay (losmen) accommodation is available and trek services are based at the Park's Rinjani Information Centre.
|