Mount Rinjani is not open all year round. Unlike mountains in Europe or America, trekking in Indonesia depends heavily on the tropical monsoon seasons.
Choosing the right month is crucial. It determines whether you get those perfect blue-sky photos or end up hiking in a raincoat with zero visibility.
As local experts based in Senaru, Rinjani Awesome is here to give you the most accurate advice on when to book your adventure for the upcoming 2026 season.
1. The Trekking Season (April – December)
Mount Rinjani National Park generally opens for trekking from April 1st to December 31st.
Within this window, the weather changes from the end of the rainy season to the peak dry season and back again. Here is the breakdown:
A. The Best Weather: May to August
This is the Dry Season.
- Weather: Very stable. Sunny days, clear blue skies, and incredible sunrise views. Rain is rare.
- Crowds: July and August are the absolute Peak Season. Expect the trails and campsites to be busy with hikers from around the world.
- Verdict: If you want the best views and don’t mind sharing the mountain with others, this is the time to go.
B. The Shoulder Season: April, September, October
- Weather: Mostly dry, but you might encounter occasional afternoon showers or fog. The landscape is often greener and more lush than in the peak dry months.
- Crowds: Less crowded than July/August.
- Verdict: Highly recommended for those seeking a quieter experience.
C. The Wet Season Transition: November & December
- Weather: The rainy season starts to creep in. Mornings are usually clear, but heavy rain is common in the afternoons. The trail can get slippery.
- Verdict: Doable for adventurous hikers, but bring good rain gear!
2. When is Rinjani Closed? (January – March)
Important: Mount Rinjani is usually CLOSED for all trekking activities from January 1st to March 31st.
Why?
- Extreme Weather: Heavy monsoon rains make the trails dangerous (landslides and falling trees) and the summit experiences strong winds.
- Ecosystem Recovery: The National Park uses this time to let nature “breathe” and recover from months of human activity.
Note: If you are traveling to Lombok during these months, we recommend our “Senaru Waterfall Tour” or “Panorama Walk” instead, which are safe and open all year.
3. Temperature on the Mountain
Don’t let the tropical island location fool you. Rinjani gets cold.
- Senaru Village (Base): Hot and humid (28°C – 32°C).
- Crater Rim (Campsite): Cool and windy (10°C – 15°C).
- Summit (3,726m): Freezing! Temperatures can drop to 0°C to 5°C just before sunrise.
Pro Tip: Always pack a warm jacket, gloves, and a beanie. At Rinjani Awesome, we provide warm sleeping bags rated for -10°C to keep you cozy at night.
Summary: When Should You Book?
- For the Best Views: Choose June, July, or August.
- For Fewer Crowds: Choose May or October.
- Avoid: January to March (Closed).
Planning for 2026? Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for the Peak Season (July-August), as the daily quota for hikers is limited by the National Park.
Secure your slot early with Rinjani Awesome and let us take care of all the permits and logistics for you.