Climbers from Australia Punished with Fines and Ban from Indonesian Mountain Due to Unauthorized Ascent - Understanding Peak Prohibitions
Breaking Rules, Paying the Price: Australian Climbers Fined for Scaling Closed Mountain
Three daring Australian climbers have learned the hard way that not all adventures should be pursued. They've been hit with hefty fines and a five-year ban from climbing Indonesia's Mount Rinjani, after sneaking their way up the popular peak during its closure.
Caught on CCTV scaling the 12,224ft / 3,726m mountain on Lombok Island on March 2, the trio managed to evade authorities on their descent. However, they were soon nabbed and penalized for their reckless behavior. The fine, amounting to the equivalent of $365 each, is five times the normal entry fee for Mount Rinjani National Park. It's uncertain whether the fine is per person or for the entire group.
The head of Mount Rinjani National Park Agency, Yarman, stated, "In principle, they knew what they were doing was illegal." The closure of climbing activities on the mountain is no secret, Yarman added, with information widely disseminated.
Mountains and wilderness areas are typically closed during the rainy season to prevent accidents and damage to the local ecosystem. Mount Rinjani, an active volcano, is no exception. Climbing during the rainy season can be treacherous and destructive to the environment, requiring time to recover from the harsh weather and peak season activities.
Despite the risks, some peaks remain accessible during the wetter months, but trekkers may encounter challenging conditions such as poor visibility, increased injury risk, and muddy trails.
Yarman appealed to climbers for respect and understanding, "Like humans, Rinjani also needs rest." To learn more about navigating wet-weather hikes, check out our "8 tips for a successful trek in the rain" or our "favorite gear for rainy summer hiking."
For hikers planning expeditions during unfavorable conditions, consider investments like our top-rated waterproof jackets for the elements or our recommended trekking poles to alleviate pressure on feet and joints.
- The best waterproof jackets: tackle the elements with these durable hard and softshells
- The best trekking poles: ease the journey with these essential aid tools
Remember, your safety and the protection of the environment are both crucial. Don't risk fines, injuries, and environmental harm by playing by the rules.
Sources:1. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/lombok/activities/mount-rinjani2. https://www.insider.com/mount-rinjani-closed-for-climbing-outside-official-season-2020-43. https://www.tripsavvy.com/climbing-rinjani-indonesia-9874524. https://www.greatist.com/fitness/mount-rinjani-hiking-tips5. https://www.outdoorphoto.com/climbing-mt-rinjani-lombok-info/
Despite the allure of scaling Mount Rinjani during the rainy season, it's important to abide by the rules and respect the mountain's need for rest. For a safe and environmentally friendly adventure, invest in waterproof jackets and trekking poles for the most unfavorable conditions.
