Sumatra

Indonesia, Asia

Sumatra, Indonesia's sixth-largest island, beckons with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Known for its lush rainforests, volcanic mountains, and rich wildlife, Sumatra is home to the critically endangered orangutan and the spectacular Lake Toba, one of the largest volcanic lakes in the world. Adventurers can hike in Bukit Lawang or take in the beauty of the Kerinci Seblat National Park. With its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and diverse cultural heritage, Sumatra is a paradise for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

7-10 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Active

Airport

Japura

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Sumatra

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Bukit Lawang

Trek through the rainforest to see orangutans.

Booking required
2

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Lake Toba

Discover the world's largest volcanic lake and relax.

No booking required
3

Est. 8 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike Mount Sinabung

Challenge yourself on an active volcano's summit.

Booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Sumatran Cuisine

Taste delicious Padang food at local eateries.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Bukittinggi

Explore cultural heritage and stunning Minangkabau architecture.

No booking required
6

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Kerinci Seblat National Park

Explore diverse wildlife in a protected national park.

Booking required
7

Est. 7 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Surf in Mentawai Islands

Catch world-class waves in a tropical paradise.

Booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Learn about conservation efforts for endangered orangutans.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Harau Valley

Hike stunning cliffs and lush rice fields.

No booking required
10

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Sumatran Rainforest

Immerse yourself in one of the world's oldest rainforests.

Booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Batak Traditional Ceremony

Witness a vibrant cultural ceremony in Lake Toba.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Maimun Palace

Explore the historical palace of the Sultan.

No booking required
13

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Nias Island

Enjoy beautiful beaches and surfing on Nias island.

No booking required
14

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Great Mosque of Medan

Admire the stunning architecture of this grand mosque.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-13 (#184 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Rupiah

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Indonesian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Nasi Goreng

Fried rice with various toppings. (National dish)

Satay

Grilled skewered meat with sauce.

Gado-Gado

VE

Vegetable salad with peanut sauce.

Rendang

Spicy beef stew with coconut milk.

Bakso

Meatballs in broth, often with noodles.

Phrases to learn

English

Indonesian

Hello

Halo

(Ha-loh)

Yes/No

Ya / Tidak

(Yah / Tee-dahk)

Thank you

Terima kasih

(Teh-ree-mah kah-see)

Excuse me

Maaf

(Mah-ahf)

How much?

Berapa?

(Ber-ah-pah)