A massive search operation is underway on Indonesia’s Mount Rinjani after 26-year-old Brazilian hiker Juliana Marins plunged down a steep ravine near the crater edge. Stranded three days into the mission, complications from terrain, weather, and fall depth are hampering rescue efforts.
Fall and Initial Rescue Signals
Marins slipped from a cliff at dawn on Saturday while trekking with a group on Lombok Island, near the volcano’s 3,726 m summit. She was sighted about 150 metres down, calling for help, and later spotted again by drone at approximately 500 m depth — though she appeared unresponsiveю
Her backpack contained only a lantern and basic gear. Initial reports of a guide abandoning her have sparked family criticism and political pressure.
Harsh Conditions Frustrate Efforts
Rescuers—around 50 personnel strong—have faced repeated setbacks. Fog, steep cliffs, and soft volcanic soil have made rope-assisted descents dangerous. Helicopter deployment is underway to support ground teams amid rapidly changing weather.
Continuing Signs of Life
Drone footage initially showed movement; rescuers heard her calling for help on the first day. However, by Tuesday, teams reported she appeared motionless. Each rescue attempt has had to retreat due to dangerous conditions.
Diplomatic and Family Response
Brazil’s Foreign Ministry and the embassy in Jakarta are actively supporting efforts and coordinating with Indonesian officials. The family has publicly urged faster action, including closure of the trekking route to prioritize rescue and prevent interference .
Mount Rinjani: Popular but Perilous
Despite its allure, Rinjani has a history of fatal accidents due to steep, unstable slopes and sudden fog, including recent fatal falls in May and 2022.
Next Steps and Urgency
- Rescue teams will continue rope-assisted descents and air support, aiming to reach her location despite terrain challenges.
- The trail remains closed while operations continue out of respect and for safety.
- Both Indonesian authorities and Brazilian diplomats stress continued urgency—but the risk to rescuers is also high.
Juliana Marins has been missing high on Mount Rinjani for over 72 hours. With every hour critical, the operation must balance speed and safety in a life‑or‑death rescue amid extreme environmental obstacles.
