Forest and land fires within the Mount Rinjani National Park in Indonesia have expanded to affect an area of 1,098.75 hectares over a six-day period, prompting authorities to redirect hikers descending from the mountain routes, according to park officials on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
Mount Rinjani Trail Closures and Diverted Hikers
Hikers still active on the trails who previously selected the Senaru or Torean routes as their exit points are now being directed to shift their journeys and descend through the Sembalun route instead. Astekita Ardiaristo, Head of the Sub-Division of Administrative Affairs for the Mount Rinjani National Park, stated that these trail adjustments and closures were implemented to guarantee the safety of visitors.
Did You Know? The total affected area of 1,098.75 hectares remains an interim estimate that will continue to undergo adjustments based on ongoing field monitoring by the Balai TNGR.
Firefighting Operations on the Northern Slopes
Joint firefighting teams managed to extinguish flames around the Bukit Setampol area and other surrounding sectors. However, active fires continue to burn along the northern slope of Puncak Sangkareang, maintaining active threats near the Senaru hiking path.
Ardiaristo confirmed that while several sectors have successfully beaten back the flames, monitoring and suppression activities remain underway. Field personnel continue active observation of the remaining hotspots to contain the spread across the national park terrain.
Fire impact size, active flames, and route changes
How large is the area affected by the fires?
The fires have impacted an estimated 1,098.75 hectares of land within the national park.
Which hiking routes are currently being used for descents?
Hikers finishing their treks or exiting via Senaru or Torean are being redirected to descend through the Sembalun route.
Where are active fires still burning?
Fires remain active on the northern slope of Puncak Sangkareang along the Senaru hiking trail.
How might prolonged dry conditions in the region impact future firefighting efforts across national park boundaries?