🏝 Getaway to Lombok: Beaches, Boats & Volcanoes 🌋

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Sometimes, all it takes is a low-cost flight and a bit of spontaneity to find yourself inside a postcard.This trip to Lombok, far from the chaos of Saigon, was a real breath of fresh air — and turquoise water.

🌊 First Stop: Gili Gede, a Hidden Slice of Paradise

As soon as we set foot on Gili Gede, the mood was set: golden sand, crystal-clear water, fishing boats bobbing gently, and an almost surreal sense of calm.The High Dive Center, a charming beachside resort, became our HQ for the first few nights. Here, time slows down.

Mask on, fins ready — we head out for a spectacular snorkeling session: colorful coral, schools of tropical fish, and even a few turtles cruising past like they owned the place. The spot is rich in marine life and blissfully untouched.

🚤 October 27 – Sunset and Homemade Mojitos on a Sampan

That day, we hop on a sampan — a traditional local sailboat — rented for 700,000 IDR (around €40 for five people). Our captain? A local fisherman as skilled with a net as he is with a cocktail shaker.He prepares us homemade mojitos as the sun sets over the Gili islands.

It’s one of those unreal moments: the gentle splash of the waves, the sky turning shades of fire, hushed laughter, and that perfect sense of being exactly where you’re supposed to be. Magical.

🚗 October 28 – From Beach Life to Mountain Paths

After a relaxing morning with our toes in the sand, we hit the road toward northern Lombok.

Three hours and twenty minutes of winding jungle roads later, we arrive in Senaru. The Lighthouse Hotel is a hidden gem: wooden bungalows, exotic flowers, and a breathtaking view of Mount Rinjani.

A little rest, because what’s coming next... is serious.

🥾 October 29 – The Rinjani Ascent

Target: 3,726 meters above sea level.

We head out with two guides, two porters (in flip-flops, no less), and 14 kilometers of climbing ahead, including a 1,500-meter elevation gain.

After two hours, first break. Then we push on for a total of seven hours of hiking to reach the crater rim, a dramatic ridge overlooking the crater lake that leaves us speechless.

The campsite, capable of hosting up to 500 tents (!), is shrouded in mist and cold... but surprisingly well set up.They even dug us a hole for a toilet tent — luxury.

⛺️ Freezing Night, Unforgettable Sunrise

The night was tough — barely two hours of sleep despite all the layers.

But at 5 a.m., we’re rewarded with a magical sunrise lighting up Mount Rinjani above the clouds.

That moment alone was worth every blister.

In front of us: the crater, the lake, misty peaks… and complete silence.

⛰ October 30 – The Descent… Another Beast

Here’s the part no one tells you about: the descent is almost harder.14 kilometers of downhill trail, shaking thighs, loose rocks — it’s a test.But we keep smiling, knowing we just conquered one of Indonesia’s most beautiful volcanoes.

✨ This trip to Lombok — a blend of adventure, stunning landscapes, and authentic encounters — will stay with us.

Part Robinson Crusoe, part extreme trek, it perfectly captures the essence of a soul-refreshing getaway.

📌 A few tips for those tempted by the journey:

• Gili Gede is a great off-the-beaten-path destination.

• Climbing Rinjani is physically demanding but totally doable with some preparation.

• And above all: never underestimate the descent. Never.