Ali Topan Rinjani — Attraction in Lombok

CHOOSE ALI TOPAN. I did the 3D2N tour and I cannot express how impressed i am with this company. From the very moment we arrived at base camp we were made to feel so safe and comfortable since everyone was so warm, friendly and professional. The whole operation was extremely streamlined, they communicated so quickly on Whatsapp, they sent a van to pick us up and gave us really nice accommodation to stay before starting. The debrief was thorough and informative and they also ensured you were prepared for before starting this unreal hike!!

This professionalism carried through the whole trip. The porters carried 3 meals a day and snacks and water up the mountain for us. The meals were delicious, freshly cooked and catered to peoples allergies and intolerances and the snacks also lovely, fresh fruit, popcorn and chocolate. I was never hungry or thirsty.(i do recommend chucking in some water purification tablets if you don’t already have some). They also carried all of our tents, sleeping bags and roll mats for us. Despite all this weight they were still such happy, gentle and friendly people and it was such a pleasure spending the 3 days with them.

Our tour guides were Eddie and Sapa. They are fantastic at what they do. I have met very few people in my life and who are so joyous and passionate about wildlife - Eddie literally spent his whole time skipping and singing and laughing. He also caught a fish with his bare hands!!! Legend. Sapa was also a legend too, I had many great chats with them both and can call them both dear friends after this trip. Thank you Eddie and Sapa. Not only were they jubilant but they were also experienced hikers who both have probably lost count of how many times they’ve been up Rinjani. To them it’s a walk in the park. Sapa said after his 3D2N tour he was doing a 2D1N tour the day after. Crazy!!!! But they still both bring so much energy and insight and safety and precaution. They made sure everyone felt safe and was healthy at all times. If anyone were feeling tired they would stop with you and give you snacks, they sent a party ahead and a party behind and everyone walked at the pace they desired. Incredibly sensitive and kind service that made sure everyone had an enjoyable experience.

Thank you Eddie, Sapa and porters - you guys are the best. To anyone going please bring extra cash to tip them heavily. They...

TLDR; Great time! Book with Ali. Bring warmer clothes than expected (especially gloves).

Phenomenal experience! Would recommend to any active, adventure seeker!

We booked 3D2N from Senaru to Sembalun through WhatsApp with Ali who gave us an itinerary and price. Although the itinerary wasn’t followed exactly, it covered everything that we wanted to and was honestly probably better (first night was at the Senaru side of upper crater rim instead of down at the lake provided stunning sunset/sunrise views, and we went to the lake the first thing the next day). Be prepared for an additional cost of 15,000 IDR for a new medical check requirement before being allowed to trek.

Our guide Jay did a great job at updating us about timings for meals and rest stops. Occasionally during breaks he would offer us cookies or soda for some extra energy. He was knowledgeable about many of the monkeys, plants, and history that we asked him about.

The porters were the real MVPs of the trek. They carry all of the tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, cookware, food, and water. The food they prepared was better than I expected. Hot tea or coffee was offered with every meal. I would recommend to pack some protein bars for the trek however as there was little chicken available for those who wanted some only on day one and no other meat the remainder of the journey (expected as there’s no refrigeration).

All the staff from the check-in on the first night, to the guides and porters were amazing and answered all of our questions or concerns immediately.

As for comfort during the trek, the sleeping mats weren’t super thick and it got quite cold at night so pack thicker, long pants, a sweater, toque, and gloves. The summit ascent is dark, EXTREMELY windy, and cloudy so prepare a headlamp, rain jacket/pants, and...

We did the 2D1N Rinjani trekking with Ali and his team and it was incredible! The hike was well organised. Ali is really kind and helpful and communicates well about the trekking and the weather forecast (quickly responds to questions). The guides and porters were really good and fun. The food they were able to prepare during the trekking was very tasteful and we loved the banana pancakes and hot tea for breakfast! Don’t worry about warm clothes because you can rent gloves, a warm jacket and a headlamp before the trekking. The hike is challenging but really cool and the views are amazing! Sleeping on the crater rim is an experience in itself and the porters made sure all the tents were set up once we arrived at basecamp. Incredible how fast they’re able to climb the Rinjani with all the food, water and tents and make everything in order for us. Once we made it to the summit our guide surprised us with much needed cookies and some nice music (the Gili Meno song is our new favorite!) :)) Due to a few people of our group getting injured, our itinerary got delayed a bit but Ali kindly offered us dinner and a place to stay for the night. Would definitely recommend booking the Rinjani...