All the Beauty of Sumatra
In the heart of wild Sumatra, from the orangutans of Ketambe to the tattoos of the Flower Men of Siberut.
Duration
30 days
From
€3,075/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
Sumatra is a land rich in wildlife, home to some of the last Asian elephants and orangutans on the planet. The world's fifth largest island also offers wild nature, with an infinite variety of landscapes. Smoking volcanoes (some of which rise above 3,000 m) bristle along the backbone of this island (formed by the Mt Barisan range).
The Mt Leuser national park is home to many populations of **orangutans** and you will encounter animals in complete freedom in the Ketambe region.
The famous Lake Toba, a veritable inland sea with blue-purple reflections stands out in this landscape and is moreover considered the world's largest crater lake. Sumatra is also inhabited by a multitude of ethnic groups, the most famous being the Batak and Minangkabau, who reveal all their subtleties along your itinerary.
The Mentawai peoples who live in the eponymous islands to the west of Sumatra are better known by the name ***"Flower Men"***, as the notion of beauty is essential in their culture. This culture also pays attention to the spirits of the forest that the indigenous people venerate and fear alike. They practice hunting, fishing and livestock raising to feed themselves, but the Flower Men are especially known for their tattoos, often from head to toe. They decorate their skin to preserve their soul and prevent it from detaching from their body. Tattooing is also a means of identifying each individual and protecting them, like armor. The particularity of the Flower Men is that they live in a collective house on stilts, called "uma".
This journey also takes you deep into the jungle of Kerinci Seblat national park, where some of the last Sumatran tigers live. By walking ridge trails, crossing streams, passing by incredible waterfalls and even diving into the magnificent turquoise blue waters of Lake Kaco, the pure beauty of wild nature will strike you! In any case, you will spot gibbons, hornbills and many other varieties of birds and wild animals.
This unique 30-day circuit ultimately offers you a complete immersion in the nature, culture and enchanting landscapes of this island, particularly highlighting the magnificent scenery, cultural richness and exceptional biodiversity of one of Indonésie's largest islands.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Land of the Karo Batak
Sibayak Volcano
Berastagi → Mt Sibayak
Early in the morning, we are dropped at the foot of the Sibayak volcano, which dominates the Karo plateau. We begin the ascent along a path lined with thick, rustling jungle. Picnic at the summit of the volcano, from where the panorama over the entire region is superb, then we begin the descent, by an opposite route, which leads us to the Debuk-Debuk hot springs, where we have the opportunity to enjoy the healing properties of the water in the hot and sulfurous pools.
Note: possibility of doing the climb at night to arrive at the summit just before sunrise]. In the afternoon, visit to the Lumbini Buddhist pagoda. Weather permitting, you will also approach the slopes of Sinabung volcano to discover a ghost village covered in ash.
*
(approximately 4 hours of walking)
Towards Mount Leuser National Park
Mt Sibayak → Parc National Du Mt Leuser
Morning transfer to the village of Ketambe, on the outskirts of the Mount Leuser National Park
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit the Pusaka Karo museum, as well as the traditional village of Lingga.
A Meeting with the Orangutans
3 days are planned mainly to meet orangutans, but you will also have the opportunity to spot other animal, bird and plant species. Your trek (easy level) begins with a walk through a maze of trails, where you can approach your first orangutans.
You will spend the first night in tents by the riverside, where you can swim.
The second day takes place on a path that goes up and down. It also crosses a rocky area, then goes deeper into the jungle. On the third day, the trail begins with an uphill slope but quickly descends towards hot springs near a river. You will then enjoy a pleasant moment of relaxation.
Return to Ketambe at a leisurely pace. Over these 3 days, you will have had the opportunity to observe orangutans and other species (siamangs, wild boar, squirrels, hornbills, etc.).
3 to 4 hours of hiking per day
Towards Lake Toba
Transfer day to the shores of theLake Toba.
You reach the traditional village of Dokan in mid-afternoon.
Sipiso-piso Falls
You head back on the road towards the town of Parapat, with, along the way, a visit to the famous Sipiso waterfalls, from where you get your first glimpse of Lake Toba, the world's largest crater lake. You also discover an old Simalunggung royal palace and take the opportunity to stretch your legs by strolling through various plantations and traditional villages.
In Parapat, you board a regular ferry heading to Samosir Island, which lies in the middle of the lake.
3 hours of walking
Samosir
The day is dedicated to discovering Samosir Island, the heart of Toba Batak culture. We trek through villages and rice paddies, and take the opportunity to stop at Ambarita, to discover the remains (in stone) of a meeting place of the ancient Sialagan kings.
In Tomok, we visit the tombs of the Sidabutar kings, and we finish with the village of Simanindo, where we discover an interesting museum that depicts local culture, and attend some traditional dances.
Return to the hotel in late afternoon 3 hours of activity
Hot springs
Ile De Samosir → Padang Sidempuan
Early morning transfer to the south of Lake Toba.
You first take the ferry to the town of Parapat, then you travel along the eastern shores of the lake, where you make a first stop at the "paradise park", where you have the opportunity to discover andaliman, an endemic lemon pepper! Later, near Balige, you spend time in Sipinsur park, where a superb panorama of the entire southern area of Lake Toba unfolds before you.
Later, you reach the extraordinary Sipoholong hot springs, whose sulfurous waters are beneficial for the skin.
You then reach the small town of Padang Sidempuang via a road that crosses forested areas and geothermal sites.
The World's Largest Flower
Padang Sidempuan → Bukittinggi
Continuation of your journey towards Bukittinggi.
You make several stops to immerse yourself in all the authenticity this little-known region of Sumatra has to offer. You pause indeed in Bonjol, located on the equator line, and you even take a lovely hike through the Palupuh jungle to try to approach the world's largest flower, the famous Rafflesia Arnoldi.
Visit also of a traditional organic farm.
2 hours of hiking
Bukittinggi
In the morning, a walking tour around the hotel and visit of the charming town of Bukittinggi, located at 930m altitude above sea level, and framed by the two active volcanoes of the region: Singgalang and Merapi. Visit of the central square with its local Big Ben (Jam Gadang), the Sianok canyon with views of the volcanoes, the Japanese tunnel, a remnant of war, and its two bustling markets (pasar atas and pasar bawah) full of life and colors.
Also let yourself be tempted by Minang cuisine and taste the famous rendang, a (very) spicy beef dish, cooked in coconut milk and many spices.
2 hours of walking
In the Heart of Harau Valley
Morning transfer to Harau Valley, where you enjoy 3 days of walks, in the forest and through rice paddies, during which you discover nature and the traditional life of Minang farmers.
Visits to neighboring villages by becak, local transport, swimming at waterfalls and picnic. You will have the opportunity to climb to the top of a hill to admire the panoramic views over the valley or to look for eels in the river.
You will discover not only some waterfalls, but also many bird and flower species. You will even have the possibility, on Saturday, to attend buffalo races.
*
3 to 4 hours of hiking
Culture Minang
Morning transfer to Padang. Along the way, you discover the former capital of the Minang country, Batusangkar, and visit the palace of King Pagaruyung, transformed into a museum of local culture.
Welcome to Siberut
Early in the morning, you join the port of Padang and board a speed-boat heading to the island of Siberut. The boat stops at Sikabaluan around noon for lunch, and departs again at 1pm. Arrival at Maileppet around 2pm.
You are welcomed by your guide, who takes you to his village. This is an opportunity for first meetings, while he makes the necessary purchases and arrangements for your stay. Then, from the village of Rokdok, a motorized canoe takes you to the Buttui region (1h30), where you begin your trek (1h) through the jungle to reach the "uma" (traditional long-house) where you will share the life of the flower men. This is the time to get your bearings with your host family.
Immersed with the Flower Men
For three days, you will follow and share the daily life of the Mentawais. You will observe and participate in the preparation of sago, their staple food; you will also search for sago grubs, observe the making of traditional loincloths called "kabit", not forgetting the preparation of poison for their poisoned arrows.
You will go fishing in the river with the women of the clan, or take walks in the forest, searching for fruit or neighboring "uma".
The evenings will also be privileged moments to share with the shamans (or "Sikerei") of the clan and get to know the family better.
We cannot, however, guarantee the organization of a shamanic ceremony or a hunting trip, as these events are rare. In any case, you will have the opportunity to meet another family, which lives 1 hour walk away: Aman Ipai.
On the road to adventure
Early in the morning, you begin your trek through a traditional vegetable growing area, where cinnamon, bamboo and rattan are sustainably harvested by villagers.
As you cross the shallow Manjuto River, you reach the primary forest, which marks the boundary of Kerinci Seblat National Park. 3 to 4 hours of hiking
An aquarium in the forest
You continue your trek through lush and unspoiled jungle, then reach Kaco Lake, whose waters are an almost phosphorescent blue! It's a true aquarium in the forest.
Swimming is well deserved, surrounded by numerous exotic fish and some freshwater crabs. This natural pool is fed by a spring.
Camp setup by the lake. Night walk to spot civets, flying squirrels and tree frogs. 3 to 4 hours of hiking
Return to the Valley
Early in the morning, you will set off again for approximately 3 hours of hiking, searching for birds and animals, while heading towards civilization.
You will notably take a break at the Siluang Bersisik Emas waterfall, then finish your trek through sumptuous rice fields before reaching the valley.
Transfer to Pelompek in the afternoon. On the way, you visit a few cinnamon and tea plantations.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns tourists entering Indonesia. Entry requirements may change, and we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities of your country of residence and with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before your departure.
Passport
To enter Indonesia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa exemption for tourist stays in Indonesia. Entry requirements vary by nationality and should be verified with the Indonesian embassy or consulate of your country of residence.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Formalities on arrival
Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival declaration via the official Indonesian customs and immigration portal (e-CD, Electronic Customs Declaration).
This form allows you to transmit to the authorities certain information necessary for entry into the territory:
passport information
flight details and itinerary
address of first accommodation in Indonesia
declaration of goods and currency carried
A confirmation QR code may be requested when passing through customs and immigration controls.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Indonesia, except in case of transit through a country at risk of yellow fever, in which case an international vaccination certificate may be required.
As a precaution, it is advisable to consult a doctor or vaccination center before departure. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies are commonly recommended for stays in Indonesia. Antimalarial treatment may also be recommended depending on the regions visited (particularly outside Bali and major cities).
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to exit the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Entry requirements by nationality
Entry conditions vary depending on nationality. Travelers should consult the Indonesian embassy or consulate of their country of residence for specific requirements.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, find out about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the agreement detailing all coverage and the procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this agreement with them for the entire duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A Visa on Arrival (35 USD) is required upon arrival, valid for an initial stay and extendable once. You can also obtain an e-VOA online before departure. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Before booking, check the conditions applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of your destination.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailored trip, plan between 140 and 230 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. The archipelago allows you to combine beaches, volcanoes, jungle and culture at attractive rates.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each circuit to the travelers' profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you get the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Sumatra
Photographer of Indonesian volcanoes and trails, based in Yogyakarta
Before drawing up an itinerary, you have to observe, walk, listen to the locals and understand the place. Only then can an adventure trip remain authentic.
— Dominic
