Senaru Crater Rim Second Summit: A Trek Worth Taking

Alright, so you’re thinking about checking out the Senaru Crater Rim Second Summit in Lombok, huh? Very cool. Maybe you’re wanting something different from your typical tourist spots and more of, I guess, an adventure? Well, you have come to the right place! This isn’t your average walk in the park; it’s more like a pretty challenging hike that rewards you with, like, some unreal sights. The views? Very deserving of a spot on your Instagram, that’s for certain. Here’s what I think you can anticipate from this trek, plus, some tips to really make it something you’ll remember.

Getting to Senaru: Your Starting Point

So, first thing’s first, getting to Senaru itself. Actually, it is not as complicated as it could be. Typically, people get there from the Lombok airport or maybe from one of the harbor areas like Bangsal, where the ferries from Bali arrive. Depending on where you’re coming from, a private car is frequently a seriously convenient option. This takes, more or less, around two to three hours from the airport, and slightly shorter from Bangsal. The ride itself is pretty interesting; you’ll be seeing, like, some lovely coastal roads and, too, as you get closer to Senaru, you will be passing lush landscapes.
If you’re attempting to watch your budget, there is the option of public transport. Although, just a little warning, it’s apt to be slower and require a couple of changes, maybe involving a bemo (small public minibus) or two. I think that if you have a ton of luggage, this probably isn’t the avenue for you. Honestly, there is so much that it could go wrong. Still, it really is an experience! As a matter of fact, it’s the kind of thing you tell stories about after.

Choosing Your Trek: Options and Considerations

Now, here is something that I should explain! There are different ways to approach the Senaru Crater Rim. You could simply go for a one-night trip to the crater rim, or, arguably, you can make a bigger trek that also includes the summit of Mount Rinjani itself. If you’re just wanting to hit the Second Summit near Senaru Crater Rim, then the two-day, one-night option probably fits the bill perfectly. Just to let you know, it can still be, sort of, a physical test.
Honestly, find a good trekking organizer is a major piece of the puzzle. Shop around, view some of the reviews and, well, just make sure they’re, say, reliable. These guys often furnish things like your permit to enter the national park, your porter, the equipment and, naturally, the food. When booking, really ensure what’s covered in the price; that can include what, too, may or may not.

The Trek to the Second Summit: What to Expect

As I was saying, the trek itself really involves an ascent, more or less, through a pretty wide array of terrains. It gets underway at Senaru village, leading you into the thick forest. The first stretch is normally a bit challenging, climbing uphill, you know? But the forest is actually amazing! Seriously, it is bursting with a lot of birdlife and you may even see monkeys.
As you begin getting close to the crater rim, that scenery really begins to open up, with some unreal views of the volcano, too, and the lake within the caldera. Reaching the Second Summit is great, just wonderful. This isn’t strictly the highest spot on the rim, but basically, offers fantastic angles and slightly fewer crowds. That evening you get to chill near the crater rim campsite, and it involves, frankly, witnessing one of the most staggering sunsets ever. Remember to have layers of clothes at the ready; the temperatures might just drop considerably, especially once the sun dips.

Summit Views and the Crater Lake

I mean, talk about views! Seeing that sunrise from the crater rim is just excellent, seriously good. I can only speak from my experiences. Anyway, that perspective of the Crater Lake, which, by the way, is known as Segara Anak, is seriously jaw-dropping. Usually, you’re, arguably, higher than the clouds, affording you a near view into the volcanic landscape. Make sure your camera (or phone) is fully charged; very wanting a power bank for that hike is just not what anyone wants, especially you, my friend.
From that Second Summit, you can generally observe the volcanic cone of Mount Baru Jari rising from the middle of the lake; this just creates a seriously postcard-worthy scene. The whole location, to be honest, seems surreal, almost. When you are sitting there, taking in everything you see, is that, like, you are at the top? Very hard to be sure.

What to Pack: Gear and Essentials

What I can say is that packing right may make or break this trip. Proper hiking boots, for instance, are absolutely a must. The trails, actually, are not necessarily even, so having ankle support is going to save you loads of trouble. Layers of clothing are key because that weather just is highly unpredictable. A light waterproof jacket just isn’t a terrible thought either.
Something else that would be wise to have: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, too, especially when you are hiking near the crater rim with no shelter from that sun, honestly. Don’t be caught unawares. Also, always carry more than an adequate supply of water and a couple of high-energy snacks to hold you up in between meals. Things such as chocolate bars, nuts, or, for example, energy bars can assist you to maintain those energy levels, my friend.

Respecting the Environment and Local Culture

You’ve got to keep in mind that you are in the midst of an actually important environment, a protected national park, really. Follow all guidelines relating to waste: carry everything out that you carried in, more or less. Try your best to remain on marked paths to really decrease erosion. This really goes without saying, although, seriously, respect the local culture and traditions, too, showing the appropriate sensitivity in how you dress and act. Engaging with the local community, well, I can only imagine it gives you a greater, richer understanding of the area, really. By respecting both that environment and that local population, frankly, you’re aiding the conservation of this remarkable location. That, like, makes all the difference, my friend.