Discover Lake Toba: World’s Largest Volcanic Lake, Just 45 Minutes from Kuala Lumpur

[RainbowR] Indonesia – North Sumatra – Lake Toba

[AirplaneR] Route: [OneR] From various parts of the country, connect through Kuala Lumpur for a 45-minute flight to Kualanamu Airport in Medan. Visa on arrival is available for $35, 500,000 IDR, or 250 RMB, while Malaysian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry. During your flight, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the Malacca Strait.

Upon landing, hop on an airport bus or arrange a chartered car. We opted for a 7-seater with a Chinese-speaking driver, costing RMB 575 (375 local currency) per day, shared among four people, with ample space for luggage in the back row. The scenic drive to the Parapat dock of Lake Toba takes about 4.

5 hours, where you and your vehicle will board a ferry to the enchanting Samosir Island, also known as Shamoshishi Island, for a day of exploration.
[TwoR] For those eager to explore Bukit Lawang, the gateway to the rainforest trekking in the World Heritage Site of Leuser National Park, it’s a 3-hour journey via expressway from the airport.

Here, you can either venture out on your own or hire a knowledgeable guide (70 euros per person per day) to lead you into the heart of the national park.
[ThreeR] If you’re heading straight from Bukit Lawang to the Parapat dock of Lake Toba, plan for a 6.5-hour trip. Alternatively, we recommend going directly from the airport to Lake Toba, which takes about 4 hours, whether by bus or chartered car.

[FourR] Along the way, you’ll pass by the majestic Sibayak Volcano 🌋, the dormant Sinabung Volcano 🌋, and the charming town of Brastagi. Note that most buses and budget-friendly chartered cars won’t make stops here.
[FiveR] Finally, take a 45-minute ferry ride from the Parapat dock of Lake Toba to Samosir Island.

Be sure to catch the last ferry, which departs around 7 PM in the evening.
[SixR] Once you set foot on Samosir Island, it’s time to unwind and soak in the beauty. Don’t forget to pack a red dress for the ladies—perfect for capturing stunning photos.
[SevenR] When it’s time to head back, retrace your steps to Medan or the airport.

[PolaroidR] Must-see attractions in Medan include Zhang Ahui’s Former Residence, the opulent Maimun Palace, the Grand Mosque 🕌, and the historic Catholic Church ⛪️.

Suburban highlights:
[OneR] World Heritage Site – Leuser National Park, home to lush tropical rainforests, orangutans, and the rare rafflesia. A guided tour costs 70 euros per person per day.
[TwoR] Sibayak Volcano, a popular hiking destination, with the currently closed Sinabung Volcano in the distance.

[ThreeR] Sipiso-piso Waterfall, a spectacular 300-meter drop with a viewing platform for the perfect photo opportunity.
[FourR] Parapat dock of Lake Toba, where a 45-minute ferry ride will take you to the serene Samosir Island.
[FiveR] Little Switzerland, a picturesque spot that feels like a slice of Europe in Indonesia.

[SixR] Holbung Mountain, offering the best vantage points for photography enthusiasts.
[SevenR] The location of the world’s tallest Jesus statue, a must-see for its sheer grandeur.

Our adventure spanned 4 days and 3 nights, complete with a chartered car and a Chinese-speaking driver. For more information, feel free to send us a private message.