Bali mountain closures
Recently, Bali’s Governor, Wayan Koster, announced a landmark policy that places a ban on all tourist activities on Bali’s mountains and volcanoes. This move, set to preserve the sanctity of these holy sites, affects not only international visitors but also local residents, with exceptions made only for religious ceremonies and certain non-tourist activities. This decision, while celebrating the protection of Bali’s sacred spaces, has significant implications for the tourism industry, particularly for those seeking mountain adventures. Now, the focus shifts towards alternative, equally breathtaking destinations like Lombok and its majestic Mount Rinjani.
If you’re looking to incorporate a multi-day hike, or learn how to surf during your Lombok vacation, please check out our Lombok Tours page. We offer Mt Rinjani Trekking, Gili Islands snorkeling, Surfing Lombok and Lombok Waterfalls. Now back to Gili Islands Diving with Divine Divers..
Where is Lombok & Mt Rinjani in relation to Bali?
Lombok, an island in West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia, sits just east of Bali, separated by the Lombok Strait. Mount Rinjani, a breathtakingly beautiful volcano and Indonesia’s second-highest peak, towers over this island, beckoning adventurers and nature lovers alike. Getting to Lombok from Bali is straightforward, with options including a quick 25-minute flight from Denpasar, Bali’s capital, to Lombok International Airport, or a 1.5 hour fastboat ride from Padang Bai. From overseas, you can catch direct flights to Lombok International Airport from several major cities, such as Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali and then opt for the short flight or ferry to Lombok. Once you land in Lombok, Mount Rinjani is just a scenic drive away, ready to offer an unforgettable trekking experience.
Lombok Island and Mount Rinjani
With recent developments seeing Bali close its sacred mountains, the world of adventure has turned its gaze to the neighbouring island of Lombok. This Indonesian paradise, crowned by the majestic Mount Rinjani, is all set to see a boom in tourism. Here’s why!
Mount Rinjani: Indonesia's Hidden Gem
Bali’s mountains have long held a beloved spot in the hearts of travellers. But quietly in its shadow, the magnificent Mount Rinjani on Lombok has been a hidden gem, patiently waiting for its time in the spotlight. And it seems that the moment has arrived.
Reaching up to a towering height of 3,726 meters, Mount Rinjani is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano. Its summit offers awe-inspiring panoramas that take in sparkling crater lakes, lush rainforests, and rolling hills extending into the horizon. For those with an adventurous spirit, reaching Rinjani’s peak is both a thrilling challenge and a bucket-list achievement.
TNGR’s Emphasis on Sustainability
Anticipating a surge in interest, Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani (TNGR), the administrative body managing Mount Rinjani, is prioritising sustainable tourism. Through a comprehensive ticketing system, TNGR controls the number of trekkers on the mountain and raises revenue to fund conservation efforts. This strategic approach finds a delicate balance between promoting tourism and preserving Rinjani’s enchanting natural environment. This approach seems to be more enlightened compared to the Bali mountain closures.
Embarking on Your Mount Rinjani Adventure
Planning your adventure to Mount Rinjani involves several factors, including securing permits and understanding the area’s regulations. Tour operators like Lost on Lombok can simplify the process by handling everything from transport to porters and guides.
Mount Rinjani offers an unparalleled trekking experience, blending physical challenge, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural vistas. The trails meander through varying landscapes, from dense forests to stark volcanic plains, inviting trekkers of all skill levels. The indigenous fauna and flora only add to the enriching experience, creating a journey that engages all senses.
Lombok: The Next Big Thing
With the closure of Bali’s mountains, Lombok Island and Mount Rinjani are poised to enthrall tourists from around the world. The combination of Lombok’s untouched beauty, the enticing challenge posed by Mount Rinjani, and the sustainable practices of TNGR form the ideal scenario for the island’s emergent popularity.
As Lombok anticipates a surge in visitors, it’s encouraging to see emphasis placed on sustainable tourism and conservation. It’s a testament to a shared commitment to preserving Lombok’s stunning landscapes for future generations to explore and appreciate.
So, for those seeking their next adventure, Lombok’s landscapes beckon. With responsible tourism at the forefront, we look forward to seeing Lombok’s trails come alive with the footsteps of nature enthusiasts from around the globe. It’s a new era for exploration. Here’s to the adventure that awaits on Lombok Island!
If you’re looking for something challenging to complement a diving trip to the Gili Islands, please check out our Lombok tours page. From learning how to surf, to climbing the majestic Mt Rinjani, Lost on Lombok has something for everyone! We are an environmentally conscious company, that believes in sustainable tourism & giving back to the community.
