You're about to travel to Indonesia and explore the stunning island of Sumatra, situated on the equator. This large Indonesian island is bursting with wonders, offering countless itineraries and tours! You're wondering how to plan your trip to Sumatra, what to see and do ? Where to spot orangutans or the wildlife of Gunung Leuser ? A quick overview of the must-sees, from Bukit Lawang to the Harau Valley!

Bukit Lawang: the village of orangutans

The village of Bukit Lawang

Bukit Lawang is a small village located in the north of Sumatra. Much appreciated for its lush nature, you can stroll along a river and encounter semi-wild orangutans! The reason? Since 1973, Bukit Lawang has served as a rehabilitation centre to protect these endangered primates.

The Gunung Leuser National Park

The Gunung Leuser National Park (also called Mount Leuser National Park due to its famous eponymous mountain) spans nearly 8,000 km² and harbours exceptional biodiversity. Its treasures? A tropical rainforest, plants that rank among the rarest in the world, rhinoceroses, tigers and elephants. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park also offers trekking trails and the chance to visit its famous bat cave!

Medan: the unmissable "battleground"

Located in the north of the island, Medan is the fourth most populous city in Indonesia. It is nicknamed the "battleground", a reminder of old local economic rivalries linked to pepper trade and tobacco plantations.

Maimun Palace

This magnificent palace of 2,772 m² was built between 1887 and 1891. Standing on two storeys, it contains 30 rooms and is divided into three sections: the main building, the left wing and the right wing. In each room you will admire decorations and furniture in Malay, Indian, Spanish and Italian styles. The predominance of ochre will remind you that you are treading upon a royal residence... By renting a traditional outfit, you can even slip into the skin of a sultan during your visit!

Mesjid Raya Al Mashun Mosque

Erected in 1906 at the request of Sultan Mahmud Al Rasjid, this religious building captivates with its octagonal architecture and atypical style (somewhere between Art Nouveau and Islamic Art). The second largest mosque in the country, it is recognisable by its five majestic black domes and white walls adorned with mosaics.

Berastagi: the volcanic city

Perched at 1,300 metres altitude, the city of Berastagi is situated at the foot of the Sibayak and Sibanung volcanoes. By its ideal position, it offers truly unique hiking trails. Free or accompanied by a guide, you can climb volcanic paths and discover lunar and steaming landscapes... Souvenirs with a whiff of sulphur guaranteed!

Samosir Island: the heart of Lake Toba

Birthplace of Batak culture (an Indonesian ethnic group of more than six million people) and former stronghold of young hippies, Samosir Island is nowadays somewhat neglected... An opportunity to discover an authentic village and disconnect from the world! Nestled in the heart of Lake Toba, this peninsula is made up of eclectic landscapes. Born from a supercaldera (a volcano that produces the most important and voluminous eruptions), the lake appeared 75,000 years ago!

Bukittinggi: Sumatra's "high hill"

The city of Bukittinggi is situated on a hill, close to the Tandikat, Singgalang and Merapi volcanoes. Beyond offering exceptional panoramas, it is appreciated for its culture, museums and historical monuments. Among its must-sees? Sianok Canyon, Kock Fort, and its famous "clock tower" (a remnant of Dutch colonisation, built in 1926).

Harau Valley: a moment of relaxation in Indonesia

The Harau Valley is a natural reserve of 270 hectares, located 45 km north-east of Bukittinggi. On foot, by bike or scooter, set out to explore this wild zone and let yourself be dazzled by the beauty of its lush rice fields and brown cliffs (where vines and bamboo flourish). Crossed by the Batang Arau river, this Indonesian jungle boasts numerous waterfalls and beautiful hikes, in the heart of its cinnamon or coffee plantations!

Trip to Sumatra – what to see and do: circuits to discover all the island's treasures!

The island of Sumatra can be visited in many ways! At once mysterious, wild, secret and volcanic, this western Indonesian island is also the seventh largest by area in the world, with 473,481 km²! Its personality and exceptional heritage offer a thousand and one possibilities and as many discoveries.

A circuit tailored to your wishes can be planned to explore the island's essentials, encounter its tigers or undertake its finest treks! All that's left is to choose your route before setting off...

Audrey Denjean