Mount Rinjani National Park

Mount Rinjani Overview

Mount Rinjani National Park, or Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani in the local Indonesian language, spans approximately 161.9 square miles (419.1 square kilometers) on the island of Lombok in Indonesia. This remarkable park is dominated by Mount Rinjani, a towering active volcano that rises to 12,224 feet (3,726 meters), making it the second-highest volcano in Indonesia.

The park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, ranging from lush tropical forests and savanna grasslands to barren volcanic slopes and crater lakes. At the heart of the park lies Segara Anak, a stunning crescent-shaped crater lake, whose turquoise waters are encircled by jagged volcanic ridges.

The lake is fed by hot springs and small waterfalls, such as Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep, which are popular stops for trekkers. The summit of Mount Rinjani offers breathtaking views of Lombok, Bali, and even Sumbawa on clear days.

The park’s vegetation is equally diverse, reflecting its range of altitudes and microclimates. Lower elevations are covered in dense tropical forests with towering trees and an understory rich in ferns, orchids, and mosses. Higher up, the terrain transitions to alpine meadows, dotted with edelweiss and other high-altitude flowers.

These varied ecosystems are home to an array of wildlife. Visitors may spot long-tailed macaques, ebony leaf monkeys, and barking deer in the forests, while civets and porcupines are more elusive residents. Bird enthusiasts are often delighted by the sight of vibrant Javan kingfishers, black eagles, and the critically endangered Flores scops owl, a species found only in this region.

Mount Rinjani National Park is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers. Trekking is the most popular activity, with routes varying from multi-day climbs to the summit to shorter hikes through the surrounding forests and waterfalls. The Rinjani trek is renowned for its challenging yet rewarding experience, featuring rugged trails, breathtaking vistas, and encounters with local Sasak culture.

Some trekkers also enjoy camping along Segara Anak, where they can soak in hot springs or fish in the lake. Spiritual rituals often occur in the area, as the Sasak and Balinese Hindus consider the mountain sacred.

Despite its natural beauty, the park faces significant conservation challenges. Over-tourism, trail erosion, and littering have placed strain on the environment, while deforestation and illegal hunting threaten its biodiversity.

However, collaborative efforts between the Indonesian government, local communities, and conservation organizations have led to initiatives such as regulated trekking permits, trail maintenance programs, and community-based ecotourism projects. These measures aim to balance the needs of conservation with sustainable tourism, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this extraordinary landscape.

Park Map

Mount Rinjani National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Mount Rinjani National Park is also home to a rich variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Below are some of the popular bird species found in the park:

Javan kingfisher
This vibrant bird, with its striking blue and orange plumage, is often seen perched near water sources, hunting for fish and insects.

Black-winged starling
An endangered species, this starling has a glossy black and white appearance and is known for its melodious calls.

Sunda thrush
A shy and elusive bird, the Sunda thrush is recognized for its soft, melodious song and its preference for forested habitats.

Chestnut-backed scimitar babbler
This bird is notable for its curved beak and distinctive chestnut-colored back. It is commonly found in the park’s undergrowth.

Rinjani scops owl
Endemic to Lombok, this small owl has piercing yellow eyes and is most active during the night, when its haunting calls echo through the forests.

Oriental pied hornbill
With its large bill and distinctive casque, this hornbill is a spectacular sight in the park’s forested areas, often seen foraging for fruits.

Scarlet minivet
These striking birds, with their fiery red and black plumage, are often seen flitting among the treetops in search of insects.

Java sparrow
A small and social bird, the Java sparrow is recognizable by its gray body, black head, and pink beak. It thrives in open areas and grasslands.

Great-billed heron
This large wader is typically seen near freshwater lakes and streams, where it feeds on fish and small aquatic creatures.

Bali myna
One of the rarest birds in the region, the Bali myna is critically endangered. It is easily recognizable by its striking white plumage and blue facial skin.

Mount Rinjani National Park is located on the island of Lombok in Indonesia and is home to the majestic Mount Rinjani, an active volcano that towers at 3,726 meters. This park is a haven for diverse wildlife, with its lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and freshwater springs providing a sanctuary for many unique species. Below are some of the popular wildlife species found in Mount Rinjani National Park:

Long-tailed macaque
These playful primates are commonly seen throughout the park. Known for their social behavior and adaptability, they thrive in both forested areas and near human settlements.

Ebony leaf monkey
Also called lutungs, these monkeys are characterized by their dark fur and long tails. They are typically found in the dense forests of the park, feeding on fruits, leaves, and flowers.

Barking deer
Known for their sharp, barking-like call, these small deer are elusive yet vital to the ecosystem. They are most often found in the lower forest regions.

Rinjani spiny rat
This small rodent is unique to the park and adapted to its volcanic environment. Its spiny fur serves as a defense mechanism against predators.

Timor monitor lizard
A large, carnivorous reptile, the Timor monitor can often be seen basking on rocks or foraging for small animals in the park’s lower regions.

Rusa deer
These large, graceful deer are commonly spotted grazing in the grasslands of the park. They play a crucial role in maintaining the park’s vegetation balance.

Water buffalo
Though not entirely wild, water buffalo are often seen near freshwater sources within the park. They are vital to local communities for agricultural purposes.

Sunda pangolin
A nocturnal mammal covered in protective scales, the Sunda pangolin is a rare and fascinating resident of the park. It feeds primarily on ants and termites.

Clouded leopard
This elusive big cat is occasionally spotted in the denser parts of the park. Its beautifully patterned coat provides excellent camouflage in its forested habitat.

Reticulated python
One of the world’s longest snake species, this python thrives in the park’s warm, humid environment. It preys on mammals and birds, playing a vital role in the food chain.