Climbing Mount Kerinci in Indonesia 2025
Conquer the highest volcano in South-East Asia
Best time: April–September
Mount Kerinci, with a height of 3,805 m, is the highest volcano in Indonesia. It is located in Sumatra, on the west-central part of the island, around 130km from Padang. It is surrounded by the beautiful green forests of Kerinci Seblat National Park, where the rare Sumatran tiger and Sumatran rhinoceros can still be spotted.
Kerinci can be climbed without any special equipment or skills. However, this will not be an easy hike. It usually takes 2 days and 1 night to make it to the summit. Groups start from the village of Kersik Tuo and must overcome the thick jungle, muddy and slippery trails, and some rather steep climbs. It is recommended to go with a guide so as to not get lost in the mountains.
At the summit, there is a 600 m crater that is often partially filled with water on the northeast side of the crater floor. Kerinci is still quite active with almost annual eruptions. In 2013, there was an eruption that spewed black smoke reaching 600 m.
When you plan your hike, it's best to avoid the rainiest months from October to February. March is when the soil takes time to dry up. So the best time is April through September. It can still drizzle here in the dry season, so don't forget to pack some waterproof clothes.
