Mount Rinjani Temporarily Closed for Hiker Safety and Ecosystem Recovery

Mount Rinjani enters a temporary closure period. All hiking routes to West Nusa Tenggara's highest peak will be temporarily closed starting early 2026 as part of safety measures for climbers and Ecosystem Restoration efforts in the mountain area.

Mount Rinjani National Park Office (TNGR) emphasized this policy is not a permanent ban, but a preventive measure against the Rainy Season which increases accident risks. It also allows nature to recover from human activity pressures.

Head of TNGR NTB Budhy Kurniawan stated safety concerns are the primary reason for the closure.

"This temporary closure ensures safety and safeguards Rinjani's future," he said.

Early this year, the Rinjani area experienced heavy rainfall, making trails slippery, fog-covered, and prone to landslides & water flows.

These conditions heighten risks of hypothermia, getting lost, and fatal accidents on narrow, exposed paths.

Simultaneously, the closure allows recovery of eroded soil, trampled vegetation, and wildlife disturbed by human presence.

This closure reflects the national park management philosophy where Tourism must align with Conservation.

Budhy clarified the ultimate goal isn't restricting Tourism but preserving its future viability.

"Let's collectively understand that safety and Environmental Sustainability are top priorities."

All routes including Senaru, Torean, Sembalun, Timbanuh, Tetebatu, and the Aik Berik education trail will remain closed until late March 2026.

Rinjani will reopen after this hiatus with safer trails and a more resilient ecosystem.

In mountaineering, temporary pauses often represent the wisest choice. For Rinjani, this intermission ensures sustainability and future accessibility.