Differences In The Styles Of Foreign Tourists And Indonesian Citizens When Climbing Mount Rinjani

Foreign tourists from Europe, commonly referred to as "bule," tend to have different hiking habits compared to the Indonesian populace. According to tour operator and Mount Rinjani guide, Abd Haris Agam, the attire of foreign climbers, particularly bule, is more relaxed than that of local hikers. "There, bule typically wear tank tops and shorts when climbing mountains. They believe it is not cold," Agam stated during a conversation with Agam Rinjani at Toraja Coffee House in Jakarta on Saturday (28/6/2025). The clothing style of bule climbers on Mount Rinjani is based on their lack of awareness regarding the conditions at the summit of this 3,706-meter-high mountain. Consequently, Agam noted that upon reaching the peak of Rinjani, many bule climbers experience cold and seek to borrow jackets.

"I usually carry two jackets when ascending to the summit. I lend one and agree to have it returned at the Plawangan post," said Agam. Similarly, the type of shoes worn by foreign climbers is noteworthy. Instead of mountain shoes, the majority of foreign climbers opt for regular footwear. "The tour operator in Rinjani offers trekking packages to foreigners, not hiking. Trekking is the most basic level, which is why they (foreigners) wear regular shoes meant for walking," added Disyon Toba, the founder of the outdoor equipment brand Consina. Meanwhile, local climbers from various regions in Indonesia generally bring complete gear, having familiarized themselves with the terrain and temperature of Mount Rinjani. Essential climbing equipment that must be used or carried includes mountain shoes, a mountain jacket, a tent, a headlamp, a blanket, as well as sufficient food and drink. In addition to basic clothing, some foreign climbers also do not bring tents for shelter along the climbing route or at the summit of Mount Rinjani. "If it rains, the emergency center that has been established is always full; it has accommodated 35 people, even though its capacity is only four times three people, but people get cold," Agam revealed. In such situations, Agam selects climbers who are on the verge of hypothermia to rest in the tent. They take turns until the morning sun begins to appear."

Tag: Foreign Tourists Mount Rinjani