Avoid Pitfalls: Comprehensive Guide to the Scientific Approach & Lesson Summary

An 8-hour journey, with 2 hours on the ferry and 4 hours in the car, left us with just one and a half hours to explore three attractions and a mere half an hour for lunch. The long drive made me question the purpose of our adventure…

Here are some key lessons learned, hoping that future travelers will take note and avoid these pitfalls:
⚠️ If you’re visiting the island, stay there—don’t book a place in Parapat.
This is crucial. Staying where you plan to explore helps you avoid unnecessary backtracking.
I’ve included the guide’s suggested itinerary in the last picture; feel free to use it for a well-planned route!

This time, we booked Bobo Cabin in Parapat too early, and it was non-refundable and non-exchangeable! We had no choice but to deviate from the guide’s recommended route.
⚠️ Aim to get to the island as early as possible. The ferry runs every hour, and missing one means waiting another hour, which can really eat into your sightseeing time.

⚠️ The attractions around Lake Toba are quite spread out, with travel times between them ranging from half an hour to two hours. If you have limited time, it’s best to make strategic choices and discuss with your guide to select concentrated attractions, minimizing the time spent in the car.
⚠️ When it comes to the attractions, I believe there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Some are perfect for in-depth experiences, while others are better for a quick look. As long as the combination is well-balanced, it’s all good. For example, the lakeside boardwalk has some incredibly charming cafes. If we hadn’t been in such a rush, I would have definitely stopped for a coffee and savored the breathtaking views.

In summary: Heed this advice to make the most of your trip.