The Most POPULAR Lombok Destination

Lombok is a world-class trekking destination, primarily known for Mount Rinjani. However, each gateway village—Sembalun, Senaru, and Tetebatu—offers a distinct “flavor” of trekking, ranging from grueling volcanic summits to misty rainforests and emerald rice terraces.

Here is the breakdown of trekking activities in these four key areas for your 2026 adventure:

1. Sembalun: The Gateway to the Summit

Sembalun (1,150m) is situated in a high-altitude caldera and is the preferred starting point for those aiming for the Rinjani summit.

  • The Vibe: Wide-open golden savannas and high-altitude farming (garlic and strawberries).

  • Main Activities:

    • Rinjani Summit Trek (2D1N or 3D2N): The classic “Summit Attack.” You start in the savanna, climb the infamous “Regret Hill,” and camp at Sembalun Crater Rim before a 2:00 AM push to the 3,726m peak.

    • Pergasingan Hill (Sunrise Trek): A popular “soft trek” (2–3 hours). It offers the most iconic view of the checkered Sembalun agricultural valley below.

    • Anak Dara & Nanggi Hills: Excellent alternatives to Rinjani for those who want to camp above the clouds with less technical difficulty.

    • Paragliding: Sembalun is a premier spot for tandem paragliding over the valley.

2. Senaru: The Lush Jungle Route

Senaru (601m) is the traditional gateway on the northern slope, famous for its dense tropical rainforests.

  • The Vibe: Shaded, cool, and rich in biodiversity (look for the rare black ebony leaf monkey).

  • Main Activities:

    • Senaru Crater Rim (2D1N): Considered the best viewpoint for seeing the Segara Anak Lake and the active volcano cone (Baru Jari) without having to climb the summit.

    • Waterfall Trekking: A must-do. An easy trek leads to Sendang Gile and the world-famous Tiu Kelep Waterfall, where you can swim in the mist.

    • Panorama Walk: A guided cultural walk through traditional Sasak villages and bamboo groves, usually led by local women guides.

3. Tetebatu: The “Ubud” of Lombok

Located on the southern slopes, Tetebatu is the hidden gem for those who prefer cultural immersion and “green” trekking.

  • The Vibe: Emerald rice terraces, tobacco fields, and misty forests. It’s much quieter than Senaru or Sembalun.

  • Main Activities:

    • Rice Terrace & Spice Walking Tour: A 3–6 hour leisurely trek through terraced fields, vanilla, and cocoa plantations.

    • Black Monkey Forest: A trek into the southern boundary of the National Park to spot the elusive black monkeys.

    • Tetebatu Crater Rim (2D1N): A challenging and less-crowded alternative to the main Rinjani routes. It offers a unique view of the mountain from the south.

    • Hidden Waterfalls: Exploration of Sarang Walet (Swallow’s Nest) waterfall, which involves walking through a small canyon.

4. Torean: The “Jurassic Park” Route

While not a village like the others, the Torean Trail is now a legal and highly sought-after trekking activity usually combined with a Sembalun start.

  • The Vibe: Dramatic deep valleys, towering cliffs, and massive waterfalls. It looks like a scene from Jurassic Park.

  • Main Activity:

    • The Descent (Part of 3D2N or 4D3N): Most trekkers start at Sembalun, hit the summit, visit the lake, and then exit via Torean. It is considered the most scenic route on the island.