Mountaineering, often known as mountain climbing, is an activity that involves reaching, or attempting to reach, high points in mountainous locations. This activity is often undertaken for recreation, adventure, sport, research, or spiritual reasons. Mountain climbing offers numerous benefits, from improving physical and mental health to providing thrilling adventure experiences. It allows participants to connect with nature, develop skills, and strengthen social bonds.
On Saturday, March 9, 2024, Matalabiogama organized a group hiking trip to Mount Ungaran, Semarang, Central Java. Mount Ungaran stands at 2050 meters above sea level, presenting a challenging yet suitable climb for beginners. Ten members of Matalabiogama from AM XXIV, AM XXV, and AM XXVI gathered at the Faculty of Biology at 10:00 PM local time, where they checked their gear, prayed, and briefing, then departed by motorcycle at 10:30 PM. After a four-hour journey, the Matalabiogama team arrived at Basecamp Mawar at 2:30 AM. The team began to hike at 3:00 AM.
From Basecamp Mawar toward the Pintu Rimba, the path was flanked by vegetable and rose gardens, explaining the origin of the basecamp’s name. After entering Pintu Rimba, the team continued their trek, stopping briefly at five rest posts to ensure no one was left behind or injured, and to check hydration and oxygen needs. By the time they reached posts 3 and 4, it was dawn, and team members performed their morning prayers. Two-thirds into the journey, the team entered a mossy forest, followed by navigating through steep slopes, Ghost Valley, and Jinten Valley. As they climbed higher, the route became more difficult. Despite the challenges, the team enjoyed the experience and the views along the way. By 8:30 AM, the team reached their destination, Benteng Raiders Peak. There, the team bonded over a meal sharing, chatting, and joking, while enjoying the view. From that height, they could see the city of Semarang and its surroundings. They even experienced clouds during the day due to the high altitude.
At 11:00 AM, the team prepared to descend the mountain, retracing their path back to the basecamp. By 2:00 PM, all members had regrouped at the basecamp to rest, worship, and prepare for the return to the Faculty of Biology. They departed from the basecamp at 3:30 PM and arrived at the Faculty of Biology at UGM by 7:00 PM.
At 11:00 AM, the team prepared to descend the mountain, retracing their path back to the basecamp. By 2:00 PM, all members had regrouped at the basecamp to rest, worship, and prepare for the return to the Faculty of Biology. They departed from the basecamp at 3:30 PM and arrived at the Faculty of Biology at UGM by 7:00 PM.
This bonding and mountaineering activity was a positive endeavor that helped to develop physical strength and solidarity among the members. It is hoped that mountaineering will become a regular activity for Matalabiogama to train and hone the skills of its members. [Author: Matalabiogama]