20 Days Itinerary in Sumatra Indonesia
Sumatra Travel
Crafting the perfect vacation can be an exhilarating journey in itself. If you're considering Sumatra for your next adventure, look no further. This comprehensive guide presents a 20 days itinerary that encompasses the must-see attractions Sumatra has to offer. Let's dive in!
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Where I stayed
Medan: Anara Sky Kualanamu Hotel
Bukit Lawang: On The Rocks Bukit Lawang
Berastagi: Sapo Karo Rest House
Padang: Sentosa Lodge
Kerinci National Park: Resort Family
Mentawai islands: Carve Bay Mentawai
Practical Information:
Location: Sumatra is an island located in western Indonesia, and it is part of the Indonesian archipelago.
Transportation & Exploration: the most common way to explore Sumatra is by using local transportation, including buses and rented motorbikes. While the island is vast and diverse, many towns and cities are accessible by road. Renting a car isn't advisable, as roads are very bad. Taxis are very cheap if you own currencies like euros or dollars. For longer distances, Sumatra is well-connected by domestic flights, which make traveling between major destinations like Medan or Padang convenient and efficient.
Weather: Sumatra has a tropical climate characterized by a wet season and a dry season. Here’s a detailed overview of the weather:
Summer (June to August): Summers in Sumatra are warm and humid, with occasional rain showers. Temperatures range from 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F). This period is part of the dry season, making it a good time to explore outdoor attractions.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Sumatra sees increasing rainfall as the wet season approaches. The weather is warm, with temperatures between 22°C and 31°C (72°F to 88°F). The landscape becomes lush and vibrant during this time.
Winter (December to February): Winters are part of the wet season, characterized by frequent and heavy rainfall. Temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F). While travel is still possible, expect some disruptions due to rain.
Spring (March to May): Spring is another excellent time to visit Sumatra, marking the transition from the wet to the dry season. The weather is warm and humid, with temperatures between 23°C and 32°C (73°F to 90°F). Rainfall decreases, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities.
Accommodation: Sumatra offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Homestays usually cost around 15 euros per night (a double room).
West Sumatra itinerary
1 - Kerinci Volcano
Kerinci Seblat National Park, located on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, is the largest national park in Sumatra, spanning over 13,791 square kilometers. The park is part of the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural heritage.
At 3,805 meters, Mount Kerinci stands as the highest volcano in Indonesia, offering an unforgettable trek with breathtaking views, especially at sunrise. The ascent typically takes 2-3 days, depending on your pace. We opted for a 2-day hike, starting on the first day around 10 AM and reaching the campsite at 3,500 meters by late afternoon. The following morning, we began our final push to the summit at 4 AM, arriving just in time to witness the spectacular sunrise from the peak.
The hike is long but manageable, even for those without extensive hiking experience. On the first day, you'll cover the initial 1,700 meters at a slow, steady pace, allowing you to reach the campsite without much difficulty. The remaining 300 meters to the summit are tackled on the second day. Although the pace on the first day is relaxed, making it accessible to most, I would not recommend this hike for those with no prior hiking experience, as the altitude at the top can be quite challenging.
Most tourists arrange their trek to the summit through a local agency, and I chose this option as well, primarily because I lacked the necessary equipment. These agencies organize the entire hike, providing food, tents, and all essential supplies. Additionally, there isn't much information available about this hike or its route. Having completed it, I found the path relatively easy to follow, though there are no signs or markers along the way. The first section through the jungle can be a bit tricky, with a higher chance of getting lost. If you plan to tackle the hike independently, the starting point is located here.
Unfortunately, the probability of encountering clouds at the summit is quite high. Despite some cloud cover during our hike, we were fortunate to witness incredible and breathtaking views from the top. Overall, the entire experience was truly amazing.
Kerinci National Park accommodation: Resort Family
2 – Mentawai islands
The Mentawai Islands are an archipelago of around seventy islands and islets located off the western coast of Sumatra in Indonesia. Famous for their stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and world-class surfing, the Mentawai Islands offer an idyllic escape for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The four main islands are Siberut, Sipora, North Pagai, and South Pagai, each with its unique attractions and charm. Siberut and Sipora are the easiest to reach.
Ferries and speedboats depart from Padang’s Teluk Bayur Harbor to the Mentawai Islands. Public ferries are the ones that tourists take, as it takes from 3 to 6 hours to reach the islands (depending on the route) and a one-way ticket costs 350000 rupiahs.
What to do in Mentawai islands:
Surfing
The Mentawai Islands are renowned for their world-class surf breaks. Some of the most famous spots include Hollow Trees (HT’s), Lance’s Right, and Macaronis. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, the islands offer waves for all skill levels. Many surf camps provide guided tours and surf lessons.
Mentawai islands accomodation that I picked: Carve Bay surf resort
Trekking and Jungle Expeditions
Siberut Island is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Guided jungle treks offer the opportunity to explore the lush rainforests, encounter exotic wildlife, and visit traditional Mentawai villages. Trekking with local guides is recommended to learn about the flora, fauna, and cultural practices of the Mentawai people.
Snorkeling and Diving
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Mentawai Islands are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and reef sharks. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include Nyang Nyang Island and the reefs around Sipora. You can arrange a tour with your accomodation.
Mentawai islands accommodation: Carve Bay Mentawai
3- Padang
Start your journey in Padang by exploring its historical and cultural landmarks. One must-visit site is the Adityawarman Museum, named after the Majapahit King who ruled the region in the 14th century. Housed in a traditional Minangkabau Rumah Gadang (big house), the museum showcases a wide range of artifacts, from traditional costumes and weaponry to ancient manuscripts and historical relics. This is an excellent place to learn about the history and culture of the Minangkabau people, who are known for their matrilineal society and unique architecture.
After immersing yourself in the history of the region, head to the old town area of Padang. Here, you'll find a charming blend of colonial Dutch buildings and traditional Minangkabau houses. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the local markets, and stop by Siti Nurbaya Bridge for picturesque views of the city and its surrounding landscape. This bridge is named after a famous character from Indonesian literature, and it’s particularly beautiful at sunset.
For nature enthusiasts, Padang offers access to some stunning natural attractions. Just a short drive from the city, you'll find Bungus Beach, a serene and relatively uncrowded spot perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches make it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Sumatra.
I reccomend visiting Padang, however half a day is enough to explore the city.
Padang accomodation: Sentosa Lodge
North Sumatra itinerary
4- Medan
Medan, the bustling capital of North Sumatra, is a vibrant city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary scene, and stunning natural attractions. While the city itself offers some intriguing sights, the true gems lie in the breathtaking natural wonders surrounding Medan. I recommend focusing on exploring these nearby natural attractions to fully experience the beauty and adventure that North Sumatra has to offer.
Medan accommodation: Anara Sky Kualanamu Hotel
5 - Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang is a small village located on the eastern side of Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Known primarily for its orangutan rehabilitation center and the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, Bukit Lawang is a popular destination for ecotourism. The village is set along the banks of the Bahorok River, offering a picturesque and serene environment.
What to do in Bukit Lawang:
Orangutan trek Sumatra
The primary attraction in Bukit Lawang is the opportunity to see Sumatran orangutans in the wild. Guided treks through Gunung Leuser National Park offer the chance to observe these endangered primates in their natural habitat. Treks can range from half-day to multi-day excursions, with the possibility of camping in the jungle.
You can book your tour in advance on Get Your Guide:
One night in the jungle tour: link here
One-day tour in the jungle: link here
Gunung Leuser National Park
Apart from orangutans, the national park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Thomas leaf monkeys, macaques, gibbons, hornbills, and the elusive Sumatran tiger. Guided treks offer the chance to experience the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the rainforest.
Book your Get your Guide tour here.
Bukit Lawang accommodation: On The Rocks Bukit Lawang
6 - Berastagi
Berastagi is a scenic town located in the Karo Highlands of North Sumatra, Indonesia. Known for its cool climate and lush landscapes, it sits about 1,300 meters above sea level. The town is famous for its volcanic scenery, abundant agriculture, and vibrant local culture.
What to do in Berastagi:
Mount Sibayak
Mount Sibayak is an active volcano popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts. The hike to the summit is relatively accessible and offers spectacular views of the crater, geothermal activity, and the surrounding highlands. The best time to hike is early morning to catch the sunrise and enjoy clear views. You can do this hike on your own or with local guides. Tourists tend to hire guides, as the path is not so easy to find. Additionally they will arrange the trasfer to the beginning of the hike, nearby Berastagi. From there it takes one hour to reach the summit. Aferwards we relaxed at the hot springs by the vulcano.
You can book your tour in advance on Get your Guide: link here
Fruit Market
Berastagi is known for its fresh produce, especially fruits like passion fruit, oranges, and the famous marquisa. The local fruit market is vibrant and bustling, offering a chance to sample and buy a variety of tropical fruits and other local products.
Visit the Traditional Villages
Nearby traditional Karo villages, such as Dokan and Lingga, provide insight into the local culture and way of life. These villages feature traditional Karo houses with unique architecture and offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Karo people.
Berastagi accommodation: Sapo Karo Rest House
Sumatra, Indonesia, captivates with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Whether exploring rainforests, relaxing on serene beaches, or engaging with local traditions, Sumatra offers unforgettable adventures and warm hospitality. Leaving this remarkable island, you'll carry with you cherished memories and a piece of its enchanting spirit.