Mount Rinjani is an active volcano, and it is part of the volcanic arc that runs through the Indonesian archipelago. Rinjani itself has not had a major summit eruption in recent history, but the smaller volcanic cone inside its caldera, known as Mount Barujari, has been responsible for several eruptions over the past few decades. These eruptions have included ash plumes, lava flows within the crater, and brief closures of the national park when activity increased. Barujari sits on the edge of Segara Anak Lake and acts as the primary vent for volcanic activity inside the larger Rinjani caldera.
The Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation monitors Rinjani year-round. Activity levels are updated regularly, and officials sometimes restrict access to certain areas of the caldera if volcanic tremors increase. These precautions help ensure the safety of visitors, especially those trekking to the lake or camping near the base of Barujari. While the summit route is usually considered safe during normal conditions, authorities close the mountain during the peak of the rainy season due to landslide risk and reduced visibility.
Although Rinjani is classified as active, trekking remains one of the most popular activities on Lombok. The volcanic features contribute to the mountain’s unique landscape, and Segara Anak Lake, the hot springs, and the caldera rim views all exist because of the volcano’s long geological history. Travelers visiting the area can safely enjoy the environment as long as they follow official guidelines and stay informed about current conditions.
