Senaru Hiking Trail Reopens at Mount Rinjani Following Fire Containment
The Mount Rinjani National Park Office has announced the reopening of the Senaru hiking trail, which had been closed due to forest fires. After thorough assessments and safety checks, the trail is set to welcome hikers again starting October 3, 2026, with five trails now operational in the park.
The Mount Rinjani National Park (TNGR) Office in West Nusa Tenggara has officially announced the reopening of the Senaru hiking trail, which had been temporarily closed due to forest fires. The announcement was made by Astekita Ardiarsito, the Head of the Administration Sub-Division at the TNGR Office, who confirmed that the trail would reopen on October 3, 2026, after a comprehensive evaluation of the area and the extinguishing of the fires.
The decision to reopen the Senaru trail comes after joint efforts by firefighting teams to manage the forest fires that affected the region. These fires, which were fueled by the dry conditions and underbrush, had previously prompted the temporary closure of several hiking routes within the park. Following the successful containment of the fires and an assessment of the hiking facilities, the TNGR Office deemed it safe for visitors to return.
"The Senaru hiking trail will reopen starting October 3, 2026," Ardiarsito stated. He emphasized that the reopening was contingent upon the complete extinguishing of the fires and a thorough inspection of the hiking infrastructure to ensure the safety and security of all visitors. Hikers planning to explore the trail can register online via the eRinjani app, which allows for a streamlined process in managing visitor access.
With the reopening of the Senaru trail, five hiking routes within Mount Rinjani National Park are now operational, including Sembalun, Tibanuh, Tetebatu, and Aik Berik. This development is significant for both local tourism and outdoor enthusiasts who seek to experience the natural beauty of the area. The park, known for its stunning landscapes and challenging hikes, has been a popular destination for hikers and climbers alike.
Impact of Recent Forest Fires on Trails
The forest fires, which ignited on September 22, 2026, affected an area of approximately 1,098.75 hectares, primarily impacting the Senaru and Torean hiking trails. Fortunately, there have been no new hotspots detected, and the remaining areas of concern are being closely monitored. Drone surveillance has been employed to oversee the situation, ensuring that any potential reignition can be addressed promptly.
Community Events
As the hiking community prepares for the reopening, the TNGR Office is committed to maintaining safety protocols and enhancing visitor experiences. The management team continues to monitor the area and is on alert for any signs of fire resurgence, reinforcing their commitment to preserving the park's natural environment while providing access to its trails.
The reopening of the Senaru hiking trail not only marks a return to normalcy for outdoor activities in the region but also highlights the resilience of the local community and park authorities in managing natural challenges and ensuring the safety of visitors.
