Discover God’s Emerald: Sumatra’s Lake Toba Natural Wonders Tour

[RainbowR] Indonesia – North Sumatra – Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake

[AirplaneR] Route: [OneR] From all over the country, connect in Kuala Lumpur and enjoy a scenic 45-minute flight to Kualanamu Airport in Medan. Upon arrival, you can obtain a visa on arrival for $35, 500,000 IDR, or 250 RMB. Malaysian passport holders enter visa-free. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Malacca Strait.

After landing, opt for an airport bus or hire a car. We chose a 7-seater vehicle with a Chinese-speaking driver, costing RMB 575 (375 horse coins) per day, perfect for four people who can share the expense. Leave the back row for luggage. It’s about a 4.5-hour drive to the Parapat pier of Lake Toba.

The driver, car, and passengers then take the ferry to the enchanting Samosir Island, also known as Xiamengshi Island, for a day of sightseeing.
[TwoR] Alternatively, from the airport, you can reach Bukit Lawang, the gateway to the rainforest trekking in the World Heritage Site, Leuser Volcano National Park, via a 3-hour expressway ride.

Explore the area independently or hire a guide (70 euros per person per day) to venture into the national park.
[ThreeR] Traveling from Bukit Lawang to the Parapat pier of Lake Toba takes approximately 6.5 hours. For a more efficient trip, it’s recommended to go directly from the airport to Lake Toba, which only takes about 4 hours by bus or hired car.

[FourR] On the way, you’ll pass by the majestic Sibayak Volcano 🌋, the active Sinabung Volcano 🌋, and the charming town of Brastagi (note that buses and cheaper hired cars typically don’t stop here).
[FiveR] Finally, board the ferry from the Parapat pier of Lake Toba for a 45-minute ride to reach Samosir Island.

The last ferry departs around 7 PM, so plan accordingly.
[SixR] Once on the island, let your hair down and enjoy the serene beauty. It’s highly recommended for women to bring a red dress for stunning photo opportunities.
[SevenR] To return, simply retrace your steps back to Medan or the airport.

[PolaroidR] Attractions in Medan:
– Zhang Ahui’s former residence
– Maimun Palace
– Grand Mosque 🕌
– Catholic Church ⛪️

[PolaroidR] Suburban attractions:
[OneR] World Heritage – Leuser Volcano National Park: Explore the lush tropical rainforest, encounter orangutans, and marvel at the rafflesia. A guided tour costs 70 euros per person per day.
[TwoR] Sibayak Volcano: An adventurous climb awaits, while the nearby Sinabung Volcano remains closed for safety reasons.

[ThreeR] Sipiso-piso Waterfall: Experience the thrill of a 300m drop with a viewing platform offering panoramic views.
[FourR] The world’s largest volcanic lake, Lake Toba: From the Parapat pier, take a 45-minute ferry ride to the picturesque Samosir Island.
[FiveR] Little Switzerland (Sidihoni): Enjoy the tranquil and scenic landscapes reminiscent of the Swiss Alps.

[SixR] Holbung Mountain: Capture the best photos from this scenic spot.
[SevenR] Home to the world’s tallest Jesus statue, a must-see landmark.

Our itinerary was 4 days and 3 nights, with a hired car and a Chinese-speaking driver. For any inquiries, feel free to send a private message.