Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Exploring Medan, Indonesia: Tips & Adventures 🌋

✈️💰: Round trip RM198 (Penang > Kualanamu > Penang)
🗓️: 5 days 4 nights

Day 1️⃣
Catch an evening flight from Penang to Medan, where a culinary adventure awaits. Savor the local flavors and drinks before settling in for the night at a friend’s cozy abode.

Day 2️⃣
Start your day early with a 4 AM departure from Medan to the breathtaking Lake Toba (a 4.5-hour journey). Break the journey with a hearty breakfast in Pematangsiantar. Continue to Ajibata Ferry Terminal and hop on a boat to Samosir Island (1 hour). Upon arrival, make your way to Pantai Batu Hoda, a picturesque spot perfect for photo ops.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at BPK Lau Renun, known for its mouthwatering pork. Next, explore Tomok Pasar, a bustling market open from morning till evening. Head to Parhallow ViewPoint Cafe for stunning views 🏞️, and then take a leisurely walk to the charming Sigarattung Waterfall. Return to your accommodation, Samosir Cottage Resort, and end the day with a delightful dinner nearby 🍕.

Day 3️⃣
Rise and shine at 4:15 AM to catch the sunrise from Holbung Hill (1.5 hours away). Snap some photos at the iconic Jesus Statue (picture 8️⃣) and visit the majestic SipisoPiso waterfall (picture 9️⃣). After a satisfying lunch, head to Berastagi and check into Kaesa Homestay (picture 1️⃣0️⃣).

Day 4️⃣
Wake up early at 4:30 AM and set off for an exhilarating hike to the summit of Sibayak Volcano 🌋. The trek takes about an hour, and the panoramic views from the peak are well worth the effort (picture 1️⃣3️⃣). Descend and relax in the soothing volcanic hot springs (picture 1️⃣5️⃣). Return to your accommodation for a hearty brunch and then board a bus back to Medan.

Day 5️⃣
Spend the morning indulging in more of Medan’s culinary delights before catching your afternoon flight back to Penang.

🌋The volcano climbing guide was arranged by the owner of Kaesa Homestay, and it comes with a fee [smile]. Thanks to my local friend, I enjoyed a guided food and drink tour, making my main expenses in Berastagi [cute].

💰Total expenses:
– Kaesa Homestay: RM74
– Mount Sibayak guide: RM200+
– Transport from Berastagi to Medan: RM7+
– Souvenirs and fruits: RM100+

⚠️I do not recommend this trip for solo female travelers due to the potential dangers of transportation [crying]. Communication can be challenging if you don’t understand Malay [facepalm]. Thankfully, having a local friend as a guide made all the difference [shy].