Wild Sumatra

Arriving at Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, you will be 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.