How to Get to Mount Rinjani from Bali: Complete Travel Guide 2025

Planning to hike the iconic Mount Rinjani during your Bali trip? You're not alone.

Each year, thousands of adventurous travelers make their way from Bali to Lombok to experience one of Indonesia’s most breathtaking volcanoes. If you're wondering exactly how to get to Mount Rinjani from Bali, this is the ultimate guide — with every travel option, route tip, and trekking insight you'll need to start your journey right.

Let’s break it down.

🚢 Option 1: Fast Boat from Bali to Lombok (Recommended)

The fast boat is the most scenic and flexible option if you're already in southern Bali or the Gili Islands.

Typical route:

• Depart from Padang Bai Port (East Bali)

• Arrive at Bangsal Port (North Lombok) or Senggigi Harbor

• Continue by car to Senaru or Sembalun (Rinjani trek base villages)

Travel time breakdown:

• Fast boat: ~1.5–2.5 hours

• Car/transfer to Rinjani base: 2–3 hours

Pros:

• Scenic ocean journey

• Direct access to North Lombok (close to Rinjani)

• Many boat schedules daily

Tips:

• Book morning boats for calmer seas

• Use reputable companies like Eka Jaya or Gili Getaway

• If you're prone to seasickness, bring meds
  

✈️ Option 2: Flight from Bali to Lombok (Fastest)

You can also fly from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali to Lombok International Airport (LOP).

Flight duration: 30–40 minutes
Airlines: Wings Air, Citilink, Batik Air

Once you land in Lombok, you'll still need to transfer:

• Airport to Senaru/Sembalun: ~3–4 hours by car

Pros:

• Fast and comfortable

• Easy if you're near Denpasar or Canggu

Cons:

• Less scenic

• Extra time needed for airport procedures and long drive afterward

When to fly:

• Great if you're landing in Bali and want to head straight to Rinjani the next day

• Perfect for time-sensitive travelers

🚌 Option 3: Public Ferry (Budget Traveler’s Choice)

If you're on a backpacker budget, public ferry is the cheapest way.

Route:

• Bus from Denpasar or Ubud to Padang Bai Port

• Ferry from Padang Bai to Lembar Port (South Lombok) – ~4–5 hours

• Public bus or private car from Lembar to Senaru/Sembalun

Total travel time: 8–10 hours
Cost: Very affordable (~IDR 100K–200K total)

Who is it for?
Budget-conscious backpackers who have more time than money and want the most economical route.

🧭 So, Which Option is Best?

| Fast Boat | Scenic & flexible travel | 4–5 hrs | $$ |

| Flight | Time-saving and comfortable | 3–5 hrs | $$$ |

| Ferry | Ultra-budget travel | 8–10 hrs | $ |

✅ For most travelers, the fast boat to North Lombok offers the best combination of convenience, scenery, and direct access to the mountain.

🥾 After You Arrive: Getting to the Rinjani Trekking Base

Two main starting points:

• Senaru Village (600 m): Lush rainforest, crater rim, and lake access

• Sembalun Village (1,150 m): Direct to summit route, savannah views

Most trekkers doing the 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights summit packages will start from Sembalun.

🧳 Tips for a Smooth Transition from Bali to Rinjani

• ✅ Book your trekking package in advance
  Operators like Trekking Rinjani Adventures offer pickup services from ports and airports — super handy.

• ✅ Arrive in Lombok a day early if possible
  Start your hike well-rested! Most treks begin early in the morning.

• ✅ Travel light, but smart
  Pack essentials only: warm clothes, good shoes, headlamp, water bottle. Your porter will carry the heavy stuff.

• ✅ Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol the night before
  You'll be climbing above 3,000 meters — you need to be in good shape.

📆 Best Time to Go from Bali to Rinjani

The dry season — April to October — is the best time for trekking. Peak months are July and August, but these can be crowded. If you prefer a quieter trail, aim for May, June, or September.

Note: Rinjani National Park closes during the rainy season (usually January–March).

🎒 Which Trekking Package Should You Choose?

Once you’ve arrived in Lombok, it’s time to choose your trekking experience:

• 2 Days 1 Night – Reach the summit quickly (fit hikers only)

• 3 Days 2 Nights – Summit + crater lake + hot springs

• 4 Days 3 Nights – Full Rinjani circuit with a relaxed pace

Each package includes meals, camping gear, guides, porters, and transport.

👉 See packages here

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Why Join with Trekking Rinjani Adventures?

We make your journey from Bali effortless and unforgettable.

• 🛥️ Port/airport pickup available

• 🥘 Fresh-cooked meals on the mountain

• 🛏️ Comfortable camping setup

• 👣 Local expert guides & friendly porters

• 💚 Eco-conscious & community-based tourism

Your trip from Bali to Rinjani is not just a transfer — it’s the beginning of an incredible journey. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on the adventure.

🌋 Final Words: From Island to Volcano

Traveling from Bali to Rinjani is easier than you think — and totally worth it. You’ll go from beaches and surf to ancient calderas and volcanic peaks in a matter of hours.

So, are you ready?

Book your Rinjani adventure now and let us guide you from Bali to the summit and beyond.
👉 Explore packages at TrekkingRinjaniAdventures.com