The Engleson Files

While in Senggigi we rented a van and had a guy take us all throughout the island and then up north to Senaru and Mt. Rinjani National Park. Here we were able to enjoy the countryside and see how the people function on a daily basis; and it was here where you could really see the importance of Rinjani to the people. The countryside in Lombok is absolutely gorgeous with thick, lush jungle and beautiful rice terraces - everywhere you looked was another spectacular image.

In the park itself, normally it is possible to organize treks up to the summit of Rinjani, which usually takes 2-3 days, but since it is the wet season those tours are no longer running. A summit trek was never in our plans but we did go for a little hike at the base and saw many of the beautiful waterfalls that cascade the volcano. The whole family was not able to venture in deep because it was too difficult, but Magnus and I were able to trek in for a couple of hours or so. We had to hire a guide (standard procedure) and as we ventured closer to this one huge waterfall it was easy to see why. The ground was extremely slick and there were many areas where we needed help crossing slippery bridges and rivers (if only Kristin knew!) I was able to go in for a swim but Magnus was too scared - I don’t blame him it was pretty violent waters inside the pool. It was a great day exploring what we could of of Rinjani and seeing what else the island of Lombok is all about. I would go back in a second!