Sumatra is a wild island still untouched by mass tourism. We arrived with no expectations, and were amazed by its lush nature, epic volcanoes, mountains, lakes, and local villages that represent a still authentic Indonesia.
Sumatra is not a destination for those seeking luxury resorts or easy holidays. Road conditions and transport are not as good as on other Indonesian islands such as Java or Bali, making travel slower. However, if you are ready to step out of your comfort zone, Sumatra will reward you!
Read below our DIY itinerary to North Sumatra, ideal for about two weeks, starting and returning from the city of Medan!
North Sumatra: A brief introduction
Sumatra is the sixth largest island in the world, with an area of about 473,481 square kilometres and a length of about 1,790 kilometres from north to south. To give you an idea, it is bigger than Germany and almost twice the size of Italy! Unless you take internal flights, seeing all of Sumatra in one trip takes a long time, and can be tiring and frustrating. Moreover, compared to other islands such as Java, it is almost impossible to find information online about local buses, making travel more difficult and drastically reducing travel comfort.
Travel insurance is a must for any holiday abroad, especially when doing extreme activities. Although problems rarely occur, it is better to be covered in case they do. We use SafetyWing and recommend it to anyone travelling the world. Check out SafteyWing here.
For this reason, we decided to explore just the north of the island at a leisurely pace and visit the beautiful centre and south of the island later.
Interactive map
North Sumatra itinerary: What to see and do
1. Medan
How to get to Medan
The journey to North Sumatra starts from the city of Medan. From Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) you have 3 options to reach the city centre:
Train (Railink)
The Railink is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the centre of Medan. The journey time is about 30-40 minutes, and the cost around IDR 100,000 (about 5-6 euro). The train arrives at the Medan City Rail Station, which is right in the centre.
Private transport (taxi, Grab or Gojek)
Taking a taxi, Grab or Gojek is definitely the most expensive but convenient way to get to the centre of Medan. The journey time is about 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic, and the cost is around IDR 200,000 (EUR 10-13).
DAMRI buses
The DAMRI bus is the cheapest option. The journey time is about 90 minutes and the cost around IDR 20,000-30,000 (1-2 euro). The final destination is the Amplas terminal or central terminal.
When spending money abroad we always use our WISE international debit card. You can withdraw up to 200 euros in cash per month free of charge and won’t pay any conversion fees on transactions. Check out the WISE international debit card here.
What to do in Medan (Time: 2 days)
Medan is a transit point for exploring the natural wonders of the region, but it is also a great place to familiarise yourself with the island of Sumatra. If you are arriving from afar, staying a couple of days in Medan is ideal for recharging your batteries and organising practical things, such as a SIM card. In Medan there are all the conveniences and modernities of a big city, and you can visit some of the sights such as the Maimun Royal Palace, the Grand Mosque of Medan (Masjid Raya Al-Mashun), and the Hindu Shri Mariamman Temple.
Where to stay
Hotels in Medan View all
2. Bukit Lawang
How to get to Bukit Lawang
To get to Bukit Lawang from Medan, you have two options:
Private transport: taxi or Grab
The most convenient and fastest way to reach Bukit Lawang is to book a taxi or Grab from Medan city. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. We booked a Grab from our hotel, and as three people we spent the equivalen,t of about 6 euros each to reach our accommodation in Bukit Lawang.
Public bus
For a cheaper option, you can take a bus or minivan. To take the bus, you need to go to the Pinang Baris station, which is about 45 minutes from the city centre. From Pinang Baris, buses and minivans leave for Bukit Lawang, although online information is very scarce. This option takes a little longer, four to five hours, and is less comfortable, but offers a more authentic and local experience.
What to do in Bukit Lawang (Time: 3-4 days)
Jungle trekking to see wild orangutans
The main reason to go to Bukit Lawang is definitely the jungle experience to see the orangutans. The Bukit Lawang trek offers an extraordinary adventure, allowing you to observe these fascinating and majestic creatures up close, along with other incredible species such as the long-armed Gibbons and the hornbill birds with their curious yellow beaks. Immersing yourself in the biodiversity of this ancient rainforest is a unique opportunity to connect deeply with nature.
Where to stay
When planning your stay in Bukit Lawang, it is essential to opt for facilities that support nature conservation. Several eco lodges and hostels in the area actively collaborate with projects aimed at preserving the Gunung Leuser National Park and the Sumatran orangutans, allocating part of their profits to animal protection and reforestation of the area.
Hotels in Bukit Lawang View all
3. Berastagi
How to get to Berastagi
From Bukit Lawang, the only way to reach Berastagi is to take a tourist shuttle that will take you directly to your hotel. Any local guesthouse will be able to organise your trip for you in comfort. The cost of the trip is about IDR 180,000 (about EUR 10) per person and the duration is about three hours.
The roads will take you through picturesque country landscapes full of rice paddies and authentic villages. Although the road conditions are not optimal, the trip is definitely worth it!
What to do in Berastagi (Time: 2 days)
Sibayak volcano
One of Berastagi’s main attractions is the chance to climb the Gunung Sibayak volcano, an active volcano that offers breathtaking views of the valley below. The hike, which takes about 2-3 hours to climb, is relatively accessible even for beginners. On the way, you will see fumaroles and sulphurous hot springs. The view at the crater, especially at sunrise, is spectacular.
Hot springs
After a day’s trekking, there is nothing better than relaxing in the natural hot springs near Mount Sibayak. The sulphurous hot waters are perfect for relieving fatigue and enjoying a moment of relaxation in the midst of nature. We went to the Pariban Hot Spring, a beautiful complex offering several thermal water pools, baths, bars and restaurants, with an entrance fee of only IDR 15,000 per person (just under one euro).
Sinabung volcano and ghost villages
Mount Sinabung is another climbable volcano near Berastagi, however, it is much more active and dangerous than Sibayak. The trek to reach the summit is challenging and takes about four and a half hours, with some semi-rock climbing not suitable for beginners. Although it is not always possible to climb it due to periodic eruptions, you can admire it from afar and capture impressive photos of the smoking volcano. You can also visit the fascinating abandoned villages around the volcano, which bear witness to the devastating impact of volcanic eruptions. Some villages, such as Sukameriah, have been completely evacuated and left in ruins. Houses, schools, shops and even churches remained deserted, covered by layers of volcanic ash and overgrown by vegetation.
Extra excursion: Air Terjun Sipiso Piso waterfalls
The Air Terjun Sipiso Piso Waterfalls are among the highest and most spectacular in Indonesia (about 120 metres high!). They are located near Lake Toba, making it an ideal excursion before exploring the lake. Starting from Berastagi, they can be reached in about two hours by car (about 60 km), and the ticket costs about IDR 10,000-20,000 (less than EUR 2).
Where to stay
Hotels in Berastagi View all
4. Lake Toba
How to get to Lake Toba
From Berastagi, the easiest and fastest way to get to Lake Toba is to take a tourist shuttle and share the journey with other travellers. The total journey time is about four hours and costs about IDR 220,000 (around EUR 12-13).
Unfortunately, there are no easy ways to get to Lake Toba by public transport. The manager of our guesthouse explained to us that one would have to take 3 local buses, all for a (uninsured) duration of 6-7 hours! Given the difficulty of finding information online, we opted for the convenient tourist shuttle.
The shuttle will take you to the port town of Parapat. From there, you will take the ferry that will take you directly to the pier where your Tuk Tuk accommodation is located (book a hotel or hostel before arriving for convenience!). The cost of the ferry is only IDR 20,000 (a little more than one euro), for a duration of 40 minutes.
What to do at Lake Toba (Time: 3-4 days)
Lake Toba, located in northern Sumatra, is the largest volcanic lake in the world. Formed by a gigantic volcanic eruption, the lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains and has at its centre the island of Samosir, the cultural heart of the Batak region, an Indonesian ethnic group from North Sumatra.
Relaxation on the shores of the lake
Lake Toba is a perfect place to relax, with calm waters and mountain views. You can choose to stay in one of the resorts or guesthouses along the shore and spend your days swimming in the cool waters of the lake, reading or simply enjoying the serenity of the place.
Island tour by scooter or boat
Starting from the town of Tuk Tuk, you can comfortably rent a scooter to explore the surrounding areas. The roads are quiet and the breathtaking scenery makes every tour a pleasure. We recommend going to the Parhallow viewpoint and coffee shop to enjoy a delicious coffee or tea overlooking the lake!
In addition, any accommodation or tourist centre can book a boat tour around Lake Toba for you. You can hire a private boat or join an organised trip that will take you to unspoilt shores and remote villages.
Village of Huta Siallagan
A short drive from Tuk Tuk, head to the Batak village of Huta Siallagan, which is famous for its ancient Batak traditions and historical remains, such as its historic site with the judgement stones, where Batak kings held trials and carried out punishments, including the death penalty. The village is full of traditional Batak Toba dwellings, which you can also explore inside. The entrance fee is only IDR 10,000 (about 50 cents), but it may be worth hiring a guide to hear all the fascinating stories related to Batak culture.
Trekking in Pusuk Buhit
For nature lovers, Mount Pusuk Buhit is one of Lake Samosir’s main natural attractions. You can hike to the mountain for breathtaking views of Lake Toba. The hike takes about 2-3 hours.
Where to stay
The main tourist centre on the island of Samosir is Tuk Tuk, which offers numerous accommodations, restaurants and the possibility of hiring bikes or scooters to explore the island on your own.
Hotels in Tuk Tuk View all
5. Return to Medan
Returning to Medan from Lake Toba
Your accommodation will help you organise your return ferry by telling you the pier and the approximate time of the return ferry to Parapat. If you arrived at Lake Toba by tourist shuttle, they will probably have already made you buy your return ticket to Medan on the outward journey, or given you a contact of a taxi / tourist shuttle to arrange your return to Medan. The cost of the shuttle for us was IDR 180,000 (can vary up to IDR 220,000, haggle!), and the duration was about 4 hours.
6. Bonus: Pulau Weh, Sabang
Pulau Weh, also known as Sabang (named after its main town), is a small and still unspoilt island at the north-western tip of Indonesia. It marks the beginning of the Indonesian archipelago, with the famous ‘Kilometre Zero Monument’ symbolising the country’s starting point. If you have time, we recommend adding this beautiful island to your North Sumatra itinerary for some relaxation!
How to get to Pulau Weh Island
To reach Pulau Weh, one must start from the city of Banda Aceh. Banda Aceh is easily reached from Medan either by plane or by a night bus. The price of night buses varies between IDR 200,000 and IDR 400,000 (EUR 10 to 20) depending on the duration and comfort. You can conveniently find tickets on RedBus. There is also the possibility of booking a bus from Bukit Lawang, ask at your guesthouses when you arrive!
Ferries depart from Ulee Lheue port, located a short distance from the centre of Banda Aceh. The first departure is around 8am, so pay attention to the arrival time of the night buses. Some buses arrive around 4am, so the wait can be a little long.
From the port, there are two main options:
- Fast ferry: Takes about 45-60 minutes to reach the port of Balohan on Pulau Weh Island.
- Slow ferry: A cheaper option, but takes about 2 hours to travel.
What to do in Pulau Weh (Time: 3-4 days)
Snorkelling and scuba diving
Pulau Weh is famous for its incredible snorkelling and diving sites, thanks to its extraordinary marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters.
Popular spots for snorkelling and diving are:
- Iboih Beach (Panglima): Perfect for snorkelling near the shore, you will find a variety of tropical fish such as clownfish, angel fish, moray eels and colourful soft corals.
- Rubiah Island: Located opposite Iboih, this small island is considered the best snorkelling spot to see sea turtles, butterfly fish, lion fish and sometimes small sharks.
- Gapang Beach: Ideal for both snorkelling and diving; it offers easy access to corals, parrotfish, triggerfish and more.
On the island there is the possibility of taking a scuba diving course for about 300 Euro. Included in the price are small theory courses and five dives with the instructor. Bubble addict is a recommended place for their professionalism if you want to have a good experience!
Scooter rental and tour around the island
Relaxation is the watchword if you want to visit Pulau Weh. The island is quiet, still with relatively little tourism and no parties or night-time activities. For this reason, we recommend renting a scooter and exploring all its beaches, and enjoying quiet moments with its crystal-clear waters and spectacular sunsets!
Tsunami museum on the way back or on the way out
We recommend a visit to the Aceh Tsunami Museum either on the outward or return leg of your visit to the island. The museum is located in Banda Aceh, and is an emblematic place to remember the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004. The museum is touching, and also serves as an educational centre to raise awareness about natural disasters and promote emergency preparedness.
Where to stay
We recommend not staying in Sabang, but to find accommodation in the Gapang area, where the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water can be found. Alternatively, you can stay in Iboih, which is where most of the little restaurants are.
Hotels in Sabang View all
When to go to North Sumatra: the best time of year
✅ The dry season, which runs from May to mid-September, is the best time to visit North Sumatra. During these months, the weather is generally more stable and the rains less frequent. We travelled to the region in early September, and the rainy season had already partially begun, with daily thunderstorms starting at 4pm. Despite this, we managed to do everything according to our schedule . However, if you want to organise trekking and hiking in peace, we recommend arriving in Sumatra during midsummer.
❌ The rainy season, which runs from October to April, is the least suitable time to visit North Sumatra. November and December tend to be the wettest months, with frequent and heavy rainfall, often in the form of tropical storms.
Need to know: You FAQs on North Sumatra answered
Is North Sumatra safe?
Yes, North Sumatra is safe to visit. The people were all kind and smiling to us. However, the road conditions are not optimal, so always remember to wear a helmet and possibly don’t drive during the evening.
What is the capital of North Sumatra?
The capital of North Sumatra is Medan. It has a population of 2.5 million people.
What is the largest city in North Sumatra?
The largest city in North Sumatra is Medan. Medan is also the city with the largest airport. If you visit North Sumatra, this will most likely be your starting point!
Is North Sumatra worth visiting?
In our opinion, absolutely yes! North Sumatra is one of the only places in the world where you can see orangutans in their natural environment. North Sumatra is also rich in unspoilt wilderness: from volcanoes, to natural thermal pools, to diving, there is something for everyone!
What languages are spoken in North Sumatra?
The main language is Indonesian, but people also speak Malay, Batak and Nias.
Planning your own trip to Northern Sumatra and found our itinerary useful? Leave us a comment below! We would love to hear from you!
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