The Great Adventure Trip in Sumatra is an exhilarating journey through some of Sumatra’s most stunning natural landscapes, covering Medan, Tangkahan, Bukit Lawang, Lake Toba, and Kerinci Seblat National Park. This trip is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers who want to experience Sumatra’s rich biodiversity, pristine rainforests, and cultural heritage.

Overland trips from Medan to Leuser National park ( Tangkahan, Bukit Lawang),Lake Toba, then to to Bukit Tinggi (West Sumatera) and then explore Kerinci Seblat National park, experience the nature, culture and enjoying adventure.

Highlights Great Adventure Trip in Sumatra:

1. Medan – The Gateway to Sumatra
   • Start your journey in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, where you can explore historical landmarks like Maimun Palace, Great Mosque of Medan, and sample delicious local cuisine.
2. Tangkahan – The Hidden Jungle Paradise
   • Known as the “Hidden Paradise of Sumatra,” Tangkahan is a serene eco-tourism destination.
   • Enjoy elephant trekking and bathe with elephants at the Tangkahan Elephant Conservation Center.
   • Trek through lush rainforests, cross suspension bridges, and relax in natural hot springs.
3. Bukit Lawang – Home of the Orangutans
   • Bukit Lawang is famous for its Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Gunung Leuser National Park.
   • Experience thrilling jungle trekking to see Sumatran orangutans and other exotic wildlife.
   • Try tubing down the Bohorok River for an exciting adventure.
4. Lake Toba – The Largest Volcanic Lake in the World
   • Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Toba, formed from a massive volcanic eruption.
   • Visit Samosir Island, home to the Batak Toba culture, and explore traditional villages like Tomok and Ambarita.
   • Enjoy panoramic views, waterfalls, and the refreshing cool climate of this volcanic highland.
5. Kerinci Seblat National Park – A Wildlife Haven
   • Venture into Kerinci Seblat National Park, home to the elusive Sumatran tiger and diverse flora and fauna.
   • Trek to the summit of Mount Kerinci, the highest volcano in Indonesia.
   • Explore the dense rainforests, visit Lake Gunung Tujuh, and witness the stunning scenery of this UNESCO-listed park.

Location Map

Tour Itinerary 16 Days Great Adventure Trip in Sumatra

Day 01: Airport – Hotel (Emerald Garden Hotel / Le Polonia Hotel /Or Similar Hotel)

Upon arrival at Kualanamu International Airport Medan transfer to hotel and afternoon free at own leisure.

Day 02: Medan – Tangkahan (Mega Inn Lodge / Bamboo River Guesthouse) (B)

After breakfast drive to Tangkahan via Binjai and Tanjung Pura , on the way visit several villages where you can see the daily activities of local people, arrival at Tangkahan (a part of Leuser National Park) check-in to simple Guesthouse. Afternoon free at own leisure or walking around the area of the hotel, just to enjoy the nature of tropical rain forest

Day 03: Tangkahan Jungle Trekking & River Tubing Adventure (B/L)

Your adventure begins directly from your guesthouse in Tangkahan, where you will meet your friendly local guide for a short briefing before setting off into the rainforest. The journey starts with a walk from the village area into the lush tropical jungle of Gunung Leuser National Park, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and plant species.

Accompanied by your guide, you’ll explore the rich forest trails for around three hours, learning about the unique flora, towering trees, and medicinal plants used by local communities. Along the way, you may encounter playful Thomas leaf monkeys, macaques, colorful hornbills, and a variety of other birds and butterflies. Your guide will share stories about the ecosystem and conservation efforts that make Tangkahan one of Sumatra’s most inspiring ecotourism destinations.

The trek also includes scenic stops by small streams or waterfalls, where you can rest and enjoy the tranquil jungle atmosphere before heading back toward the village area.

After returning to your guesthouse, take a short break and prepare for the next highlight — a river safari tubing adventure along the beautiful Batang Serangan River. Equipped with safety gear and guided by experienced local tubing guides, you’ll float downstream through peaceful rainforest scenery. The journey combines gentle rapids and calm stretches, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and fun.

During the tubing trip, you’ll stop at a natural hot spring, where you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich water surrounded by jungle greenery — a truly rejuvenating experience.

Your adventure ends back near the village, where you can relax by the river and enjoy a delicious local lunch before returning to your guesthouse. This trip perfectly combines nature exploration, adventure, and relaxation — a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and serenity of Tangkahan.

Day 04: Adventurous Jeep Safari: Tangkahan to Bukit Lawang (Eclodge Bukit Lawang Cottage / Rindu Alam / Similar ) (B)

After a hearty breakfast, board a private 4×4 off-road jeep for an exhilarating transfer through the diverse landscapes that connect these two destinations. This isn’t just a drive—it’s a mini-safari!

• Scenic Route: The jeep will traverse rugged plantation roads and challenging jungle trails, offering a thrilling and authentic travel experience only possible by 4×4.
• Cultural Stops: We make frequent stops at interesting points along the way, giving you a genuine glimpse into local life in Sumatra. This includes:
• Witnessing the operations of a palm oil plantation (exterior view only).
• Visiting a local school to see rural education in action.
• Stopping at scenic viewpoints to enjoy the magnificent panorama and capture the activities of the local people in their daily routines.
• Duration: This scenic journey and transfer takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions and the time spent at stops.

Upon arrival in Bukit Lawang, you will check into your chosen hotel (Bukit Lawang Cottages or Rindu Alam Hotel / Similar). The rest of the day is free to explore the village or relax by the Bohorok River in preparation for your jungle trek tomorrow.

Day 05: Bukit Lawang Jungle Trek: Wild Orangutans & Pristine Rainforest (B)

After a delicious breakfast, begin your unforgettable journey into the heart of the Gunung Leuser National Park. This guided jungle trek offers an immersive exploration of one of the world’s most vital tropical rainforest ecosystems.

The Trekking Experience

• Wildlife Encounters: The primary goal of this three-hour trek is to witness the critically endangered Sumatran Orangutans in their natural habitat. Your experienced local guide will lead you deep into the jungle where sightings of other incredible wildlife are highly possible, including:
• Thomas Leaf Monkeys
• Long-Tailed Macaques
• Gibbons and Black Gibbons

Flora and Fauna: Discover the rich biodiversity and incredible flora of this lush tropical environment. Learn about medicinal plants and the intricate ecology of the forest.

Duration: The trekking portion lasts approximately 3 hours.

Afternoon Leisure

Following the trek, you will return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Take the opportunity to:

• Relax and Reflect: Unwind and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Bukit Lawang.
• Explore the Village: Take a gentle walk to explore the charming local village surrounding the hotel, experiencing the daily life and culture of the community.

Day 06: Bukit Lawang – Brastagi (Mikie Holiday Resort / Sinabung Hills Hotel/Sibayak Intl Hotel) (B)

This morning, travel from Bukit Lawang to the highland town of Berastagi, famous for its cool climate, fruit plantations, and views of surrounding volcanoes. The scenic route passes through villages such as Namu Ukur, Rumah Galuh, and Simpang Kuta Buluh, and offers dramatic views of Mount Sinabung, an active volcano.

Upon arrival in Berastagi, visit the following highlights:

• Lhumbini Park, featuring a golden replica of Myanmar’s famous Shwedagon Pagoda.
• The lively fruit and flower market, bursting with colorful produce and tropical flowers.
• Gundaling Hill, a viewpoint offering spectacular panoramas of Mt. Sibayak and Mt. Sinabung.

Later, check into your highland hotel and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Day 07: Brastagi – Samosir / Lake Toba ( Tabo Cottages / Toledo Inn / Samosir Villa) (B)

After breakfast depart for the legendary Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake, with an island the size of Singapore at its center. The journey includes several fascinating stops:

• Dokan Village(a traditional Batak Karo settlement with distinctive wooden houses)
• Sipisopiso Waterfall(plunging dramatically from a height of 90 meters into a gorge, with sweeping views over Lake Toba)
• Tele Viewpoint (offering a panoramic perspective of the lake from its western side)
• Efrata Waterfall(another beautiful cascade nestled in the hills)
• Lumban Suhi-suhi(where you can observe women weaving colorful traditional ulos textile)

By mid-afternoon, arrive in Tuk-Tuk on Samosir Island, set in the heart of Lake Toba, and check into your lakeside hotel.

Day 08: Samosir – Excurison By Car (B)

Spend a full day exploring the cultural treasures and natural beauty of Samosir Island by car:

• Ambarita Village, where ancient stone chairs and execution tables of the Batak tribal chieftains can still be seen.
• Tomok Village, where you can view the centuries-old stone sarcophagi of the Sidabutar kings and learn about Batak burial traditions.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel and enjoy the tranquil lakeside atmosphere. You may take a stroll along the shore, interact with locals, or relax by the water.

Day 09: Samosir – Padang Sidempuan (Mega Permata Hotel) (B)

After a final, picturesque breakfast on Samosir Island, take the scenic ferry across the caldera lake back to the mainland at Parapat. From here, we begin our full-day overland journey south toward Padang Sidempuan, a route that showcases the incredible transition of Sumatra’s landscapes and cultures.

Sensory Stops & Cultural Immersion

The drive is broken up by fascinating stops designed to awaken your senses and offer insight into local life:

• Spice and Aroma Trails: Stop roadside to visit bustling tropical plantations of pineapple, clove, and rich Sumatran coffee. Step out and let the air, thick with natural, invigorating aromas, refresh you.
• Balige Traditional Market: Dive into the lively, authentic atmosphere of the Balige traditional market. This vibrant showcase of local produce, Batak crafts, and daily village life is an excellent opportunity for people-watching and photography.
• Sipoholon Hot Springs: Take a break from the road at the unique Sipoholon hot springs. Witness the steaming, mineral-rich pools set against a dramatic volcanic backdrop—a perfect spot for relaxation and capturing unique photos.

The Picturesque Finale

Before arriving at your destination, we embark on a short, rewarding excursion:

Sarulla River Terrace Walk: Stretch your legs with a gentle walk along the scenic Sarulla River. Here, you’ll be treated to one of Sumatra’s most iconic rural vistas: lush, emerald-green terraced rice fields sloping down to the water, giving you a genuine look at the agricultural heartland.

Upon arrival in Padang Sidempuan, check into your hotel for a well-deserved overnight rest, preparing you for the next stage of your journey deeper into Sumatra.

Day 10: Padang Sidempuan – Bukittinggi (Santika Hotel / Similar) (B)

After breakfast, we depart Padang Sidempuan for the captivating journey south to Bukittinggi, the cultural heart of the Minangkabau Highlands. This is a day filled with dramatic landscape changes and geographic milestones.

Into the Tropical Heart

The journey takes us directly through the breathtaking Rimba Panti Nature Reserve, offering a deep immersion into a protected stretch of genuine tropical rainforest.

• Lush Immersion: We’ll drive through and make stops within this dense jungle, where the air is rich and humid. Look out for the unique local flora and fauna that thrive in this vital ecosystem.
• Aromatic Spice Trails: Along the way, we’ll explore the exotic spice plantations that have defined Sumatra’s history. Stop to learn about and smell the pungent aromas of pepper, sweet vanilla, aromatic cardamom, and fragrant cinnamon—the very spices that drew explorers to this island centuries ago.

The Geographic Milestone

The adventure culminates in a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience:

• Equator Crossing at Bonjol: Arrive in Bonjol village and stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one in the Southern! This is a special, memorable photo opportunity at the official monument marking the Equator line.

Arrival in Bukittinggi

In the late afternoon, we arrive in the charming and historic town of Bukittinggi. Known for its distinctive Minangkabau architecture and cool mountain climate, you will check into your hotel. The evening is free to relax or take a first stroll through this picturesque highland town.

Day 11:Minangkabau Highland Tour (B)

Discover the living heritage of the Minangkabau people — a proud ethnic group famous for their matrilineal society, graceful traditions, and iconic pointed-roof houses. This full-day cultural tour from Bukittinggi takes you through the heart of West Sumatra, where history, architecture, and local artistry come alive amidst breathtaking natural landscapes.

Tour Overview

Step back in time as you explore charming highland villages, ancient royal palaces, and traditional handicraft centers. Along the way, enjoy scenic countryside views, meet friendly locals, and experience the warm hospitality that defines Minangkabau culture.

Highlights of the Minangkabau Heritage Tour

• Scenic Drive to Batusangkar via Tabek Patah
  Travel through picturesque landscapes of terraced rice fields and rolling hills. Stop at Rao-Rao Village, a beautifully preserved Minangkabau settlement that showcases traditional architecture and rural life.
• Traditional Coffee Milling Experience
  Visit a local coffee mill where beans are still processed the old-fashioned way. Learn how traditional techniques create the rich aroma and flavor that make Sumatran coffee world-renowned.
• Pagaruyung Palace (Istano Basa Pagaruyung)
  Marvel at this stunning reconstruction of the royal palace of the Minangkabau Kingdom, adorned with intricate carvings and colorful motifs. It’s the perfect place to learn about the royal lineage and the unique matrilineal traditions of the region.
• Pandai Sikek Handicraft Village
  Discover the artistry of handwoven songket textiles and fine woodcarvings in one of West Sumatra’s most famous craft villages. Meet local artisans and witness the delicate techniques passed down through generations.
• Bukittinggi City Tour
  Return to Bukittinggi and explore the city’s highlights, including the dramatic Sianok Canyon, the historic Fort de Kock, the Jam Gadang Clock Tower (often called Bukittinggi’s “Big Ben”), and the lively traditional market, where locals trade fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods.

Day 12: Bukittinggi – Kerinci Seblat / Kersik Tuo (Kerinci View Homestay / Subandi Gueshouse ) (B)

After breakfast, depart the cultural hub of Bukittinggi and begin the magnificent overland journey to Kersik Tuo, the gateway village to Kerinci Seblat National Park and Mount Kerinci. This drive is renowned as one of Sumatra’s most scenic routes.

• The Lake District Drive: The road winds past stunning geographical wonders, including the vast blue expanse of Lake Singkarak and the breathtaking pair known as the Twin Lakes (Danau Diatas and Danau Dibawah). These stops offer incredible photography opportunities of water, mountains, and rice paddies.
• Cultural Stops: We will pause at an authentic Minangkabau village near Muara Labuh to admire the iconic Rumah Gadang (traditional buffalo-horned houses) and learn about the local customs and matrilineal society.
• Waterfalls and Views: Make a brief stop to view the unique Letter W Waterfall and enjoy other panoramic spots along the route.

Arrival at the Foot of the Volcano

The final leg of the journey takes us into the remote, cool highlands of Kerinci, home to the tallest volcano in Sumatra.

Upon arrival in the charming village of Kersik Tuo, you will check into a traditional and simple local accommodation (Kerinci View Homestay / Subandi Guesthouse). This evening offers an early glimpse of the majestic Mount Kerinci looming over the vast tea plantations—a perfect setting to prepare for tomorrow’s exploration of the protected park area.

Day 13: Danau Gunung Tujuh Trek: Mystical Crater Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary (B, L)

The Ascent to the Seven Mountains Lake

After an early breakfast, we embark on an approximately 1-hour transfer by minibus to the entrance of the Danau Gunung Tujuh National Park—a protected jewel within Kerinci Seblat.

This full-day adventure is dedicated to conquering the legendary Danau Gunung Tujuh (Seven Mountains Lake).

• The Challenge: Begin the challenging, rewarding ascent into the highlands. The lake rests at a mysterious altitude of 1,995 meters above sea level, encircled by seven towering, pristine hills that lend the lake its name.
• Primary Rainforest Immersion: Your trek takes you through untouched primary rainforest, a vital part of one of the world’s most critical conservation areas. The air is cool, and the surroundings are dense and ancient.
• Mystical Lake & Wildlife Spotting

Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with the breathtaking sight of this huge, serene crater lake—the highest crater lake in Southeast Asia.

• Lunch by the Water: A well-deserved local lunch will be served on the tranquil banks of the lake, allowing you to absorb the peaceful, mystical atmosphere.
• Exploration & Discovery: The entire area is a critical habitat. Spend the afternoon exploring the pristine surroundings, keeping a keen eye out for the elusive inhabitants of the forest, which include:
• Endangered Sumatran Tigers (indirect signs often found)
• Sumatran Elephants
• Various Primates and endemic Sumatran bird species.

The region is also famous as a research area for cryptozoology due to sightings of the legendary Orang Pendek (the “small man” of the jungle). This trek offers a chance to experience truly wild, protected nature at its most beautiful and mysterious.

Afternoon return to guest house at KersiknTuo

Day 14: Kerinci Seblat – Enjoying The Atmosphere (B)

After breakfast and easy day to enjoy the atmosphere around the area of Kerinci Seblat National Park, tour can be made to Kayu Aro Tea plantation, explore the river around and witness the activities of local people.

Day 15: Kersik Tuo – Padang (Santika Premiere /Pangeran Beach Hotel /) (B)

After a final breakfast amidst the misty Kerinci highlands, the morning begins with a cultural and geological tour of the valley before our transfer to the coast.

• Highland Gems: We start at the boiling Semurup Hot Springs, witnessing the raw geothermal power. Next, visit the Old Historical Mosque with its impressive, ancient Giant Drum (Bedug), a significant local cultural marker. Before leaving the valley, capture final photos of the vast, serene waters of Lake Kerinci.
• Local Villages & Tea Scenery: We enjoy the view of the Kayu Aro Tea Plantations one last time and pass through remote villages nestled in the volcanic foothills.

The Grand Descent via the West Coast (Pesisir Selatan)

We then begin the spectacular overland drive to Padang via the beautiful coastal town of Painan. This route offers a dramatic transition from mountain coolness to tropical seaside warmth.

• Lush Pesisir Scenery: The road features frequent, breathtaking sections where lush, tropical rainforest and hillside foliage plunge dramatically toward the sea. We traverse the dynamic landscape of the Pesisir Selatan (South Coast), passing through numerous scenic coastal villages and rich agricultural land.
• Mandeh Bay Panorama: We pause to take in the stunning panorama of the Mandeh Bay area, often referred to as the “Raja Ampat of the West” for its cluster of picturesque islands and azure waters.
• Coastal Relaxation: Our final stop before the city is the picturesque Bungus Beach. Feel the invigorating sea air and walk the soft sands of this beautiful bay on the Indian Ocean, marking a refreshing contrast to the high mountain journey.

We arrive in Padang in the late afternoon. Check into your hotel and enjoy the evening, perhaps sampling the world-famous, authentic Padang cuisine the city is known for.

Day 16: Hotel- Airport (B)

After breakfast Free at own leisure until time transfer to Airport. Tour End