Discover the Hidden Gem: Breathtaking Lake Toba Adventure in Medan, Indonesia 🇲🇨

If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle and find a low-key travel destination, Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Indonesia, is definitely worth exploring. It is also known as “Mini New Zealand.” This volcanic lake boasts picturesque views and rich Batak culture. But the key point is: our 4 days and 4 nights trip cost less than RM1300!!! 😱

Day 1️⃣
– Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Medan, which takes only 1 hour, and stay overnight in Medan.

Day 2️⃣
– Depart at 8 am, approximately 3-4 hours drive to Parapat Port.
– Take a ferry to Samosir Island.
– Enjoy the lake view and coffee at Parhollow Viewpoint.
– Have drinks and listen to live music at Roy’s Pub.

Day 3️⃣
– Admire the lake and mountain scenery at Bukit Holbung.
– Visit the Batak cultural village of Huta Siallagan.
– Relax at Batuhoda lakeside beach.
– See Efrata Waterfall.

Day 4️⃣
– Visit Simarjarunjung viewpoint.
– Explore Sipiso Piso Waterfall.
– Visit the fruit market (didn’t go to Berastagi due to time constraints).
– Return to Medan, have dinner at Champion Cafe, and experience Medan’s nightlife.

Day 5️⃣
– Enjoy a special breakfast in the Chinese area of Medan.
– Buy local specialties/souvenirs.
– Have lunch at The Thirty-Six Cafe.
– Head to the airport in the afternoon and return to Kuala Lumpur.

Regarding the costs:
– AirAsia round-trip ticket RM340, including 20KG checked luggage.
– Lake Toba is remote, so it’s necessary to hire a car service. We booked a guide and an MPV for six people in advance, costing around RM2000, which comes to about RM333 per person, including entrance fees and boat tickets.

– Accommodation cost RM180 per person (two nights in Medan, two nights on Samosir Island). The hotels were clean, comfortable, conveniently located, and offered lake views.
– Brought RM600 in cash but spent less than RM400, covering all meals and shopping.

Some tips:
– Sharing costs with more people can save a lot, so it’s recommended to travel with at least 5-6 people, especially for car rental, to reduce individual expenses.
– It’s advisable to book flights, hotels, and car services in advance. The tour guide will arrange the itinerary to ensure a smooth trip.

– Although Indonesian food is similar to ours, their dishes tend to be saltier and spicier, and the drinks are sweeter. Some may not be used to it.
– In Lake Toba or surrounding Batak areas, you might see some restaurant signs with B1🐷 and B2🐶. Indeed, some Batak people consume 🐶 meat, which is part of their tradition.

As tourists, it’s important to show respect and understanding.

If you have any questions or are planning a trip to Lake Toba, feel free to message me.