Getting to Mount Rinjani (located on the neighboring island of Lombok) from Bali is a very common travel route. You have three main options, ranging from the fastest and most comfortable to the most budget-friendly.
Here is how you can make the journey:
Option 1: Fast Boat (The Most Popular Route)
This is the most common choice for trekkers because it offers a good balance of speed, price, and convenience, taking you directly to northern Lombok where most Rinjani treks begin.
1. Get to a Departure Port in Bali
Most fast boats leave from Padang Bai (best if you are in Ubud or South Bali). Some also leave from Sanur or Serangan.
2. Take the Fast Boat to Lombok
Book a ticket to Bangsal Harbor (the main port in North Lombok). Popular and reliable operators include Eka Jaya, Blue Water Express, and Wahana.
3. Drive to the Trekking Base
From Bangsal Harbor, you will need a taxi or private transfer to reach your trekking base camp in either Senaru or Sembalun. Tip: If you book your trek in advance, most trekking companies will include a free pickup from Bangsal Harbor.
Option 2: Flying (The Fastest Route)
If you want to avoid rough sea crossings or are short on time, flying is a great option, though it requires a longer drive once you arrive in Lombok.
1. Fly from Bali (DPS) to Lombok (LOP)
Take a domestic flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali to Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport in Central/South Lombok. The flight itself is very short, only about 40 minutes. Airlines like Wings Air and Citilink operate this route daily.
2. Drive from the Airport to the Trekking Base
Lombok’s airport is in the south, while Mount Rinjani is in the north. You will need to hire a private taxi or arrange a transfer through your trekking company to drive you to Senaru or Sembalun.
Option 3: Public Ferry (The Budget Route)
This is the cheapest way to travel, but it is very slow and can be exhausting. It is best suited for backpackers with plenty of time.
1. Get to Padang Bai Port in Bali
Make your way to Padang Bai on the east coast of Bali.
2. Take the Slow Ferry to Lembar
Buy a ticket for the large public vehicle ferry (often called the “Ro-Ro” ferry) to Lembar Harbor in southwest Lombok. These run 24 hours a day, departing roughly every hour.
3. Drive from Lembar to the Trekking Base
Once you arrive in Lembar, you will need to negotiate a taxi or take local transport (bemos) up to Senaru or Sembalun.
A Note on Booking Your Trek
Almost all reputable trekking companies on Rinjani offer packages that include transport from anywhere in Lombok. The easiest way to manage your trip is to:
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Book your fast boat or flight yourself.
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Tell your trekking company your arrival time and port/airport.
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Let them handle the drive to the mountain.
