Embark on a rich journey through North Sumatra, from the jungles of Bukit Lawang to the volcanic highlands of Brastagi and the cultural heart of Samosir Island. Encounter wild orangutans in Leuser National Park, explore traditional Batak villages and cascading waterfalls, and delve into the legends of the Sidabutar Kings on the shores of Lake Toba. A vibrant blend of wildlife, landscapes and heritage awaits.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Medan to Bukit Lawang
Arriving at Kualanamu International Airport, we’re met and driven towards the rainforest retreat of Bukit Lawang. The journey winds past sweeping plantations of rubber and oil palm, gradually giving way to lush green hills and the sounds of the jungle. On arrival, we check in at Bukit Lawang Cottage, tucked beside the river and surrounded by nature. The rest of the day is free to relax and settle into this peaceful setting.
Overnight: Bukit Lawang
Jungle Trek in Leuser National Park
This morning we set out on a guided trek through the tropical rainforest of Leuser National Park, a sanctuary for endangered orangutans. Walking under the dense canopy, we keep our eyes peeled for wildlife - Thomas Leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, gibbons and, if we're lucky, orangutans in the wild. The three-hour hike offers an incredible window into one of the world’s richest ecosystems. Afterwards, we return to our lodge to unwind, or perhaps wander through the local village.
Overnight: Bukit Lawang | Breakfast, Lunch
Highlands of Brastagi
We leave Bukit Lawang behind and make our way into the cool highlands of Brastagi. The route passes through rural villages and terraced fields, with panoramic views of Sinabung Volcano rising in the distance. In Brastagi, we explore Lhumbini Park and its glittering golden pagoda, then browse the colourful fruit market and take in sweeping views from Gundaling Hill.
Overnight: Brastagi | Breakfast, Lunch
Brastagi to Samosir Island
After breakfast, we travel to Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake, and Samosir Island at its heart. Along the way, we stop at the traditional Batak Karo village of Dokan to learn about their culture and communal longhouses. At Sipisopiso, a dramatic 90-metre waterfall plunges into the lake below, while the lookout at Tele offers a spectacular panorama of the caldera rim. We continue to Efrata Waterfall before arriving at Lumban Suhi-suhi, where women still weave traditional Ulos cloth by hand. By mid-afternoon, we reach our lakeside accommodation on Samosir Island.
Overnight: Samosir Island | Breakfast, Lunch
Samosir Island
We delve into the island’s rich heritage, starting in Ambarita, once home to ancient Batak kings. Here we see stone chairs and execution sites used for tribal justice. At Tomok, we explore the burial site of the Sidabutar kings and uncover the island’s spiritual legacy. A visit to Aek Natonang, a peaceful lake high in the hills, rounds out the day. There’s time to relax at the hotel before we come together for a farewell dinner beside the lake.
Overnight: Samosir Island | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Farewell
After breakfast, we board the ferry back to Parapat, taking in the serene views across Lake Toba one last time. From there, we continue by road to the airport for onward flights, departing with memories of North Sumatra’s lush landscapes, vibrant culture and welcoming people.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Bukit Lawang Cottage, Bukit Lawang
Amid tropical, riverside jungle bordering Gunung Leuser National Park, this laid-back lodge in a series of cottages is a minute's walk from local jungle tour operators. Simple, airy rooms feature bamboo furnishings, fans and mosquito nets, along with sitting areas and terraces. A striking building made from bamboo and clay houses an open-air locavore restaurant and a guest lounge. Breakfast and parking are available.
Sinabung Hill Hotel , Brastagi
Set 4 km from Mikie Funland amusement park, this laid-back, colorful hotel is 3 km from the Mount Sibayak volcano and 8 km from Lumbini Natural Park, a Buddhist temple. Relaxed rooms offer simple wood furniture, along with free Wi-Fi, desks and cable TV. Some have balconies. A low-key restaurant has a lounge and a terrace. Additional amenities include outdoor pools and karaoke, plus a paintball field and a playground. There are also tennis and basketball courts, and meeting rooms.
Tabo Cottage, Samosir Island
Set on the banks of Lake Toba, this relaxed hotel is 4 km from the Batak Museum of local history, 8 km from the Botanical Samosir nature preserve and 63 km off of the West Trans Sumatera Highway. Set in individual cottages, the airy, laid-back rooms have en-suite bathrooms. Breakfast is available. The property also has a restaurant and a German bakery, as well as a garden and an outdoor pool.
At a Glance
