The 12 Best Things To Do In Berastagi, Sumatra

Last Updated: February 7 2024

Berastagi is a charming town located in the Barisan Mountains, within North Sumatra. Although not well-known compared to other destinations in Indonesia, this place is a must-visit.

Surrounded by two active volcanoes and acting as a stopover to the famous Lake Toba, Berastagi has so much to offer. Boasting epic landscapes, gorgeous waterfalls, and plenty of unique attractions, there’s something for everyone here!

To ensure you have a great time, we’ve listed the best things to do in Berastagi, Sumatra. We’ve also included some helpful information such as where to stay, when to visit, and other top tips!

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The Best Things To Do In Berastagi, Sumatra

1. Hike up Gunung Sibayak

Mount Sibayak (also known as Gunung Sibayak) is a stratovolcano that sits above the town of Berastagi. Located at an impressive 2,181 metres (7,155 feet) above sea level, it’s the perfect place for a hike!

Luckily, Gunung Sibayak last erupted over a century ago, so it’s considered safe to walk up.

We stayed at Kaesa Homestay, and from there, it took us around 3.5 hours to reach the summit. The owner used to work for the Indonesian Tourism Board, so he’ll be happy to point the way!

Before the hike to the summit, you’ll come across a ranger’s hut where you’ll need to sign in. From here, it’s a 30-40 minute walk to the top. As you reach the summit, prepare yourself for the strong smell of sulfur!

You can also wander up to the crust of the volcano but be very careful. From the top, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the area’s other volcano, Mount Sinabung.

2. Take a day trip to Lake Toba

Lake Toba is one of the most beautiful places in Sumatra! Covering over 1,145 sq km and with depths of up to 450 metres, it’s the largest volcanic lake in the world.

This lake was the famous site of the Toba super-eruption which occurred around 75,000 years ago. It was one of the largest volcanic eruptions in the world’s history, and caused a volcanic winter of about 10 years!

It’s around a 1.5-hour drive from Berastagi to Lake Toba and there are a couple of options when it comes to transport. In terms of convenience, you can hire a scooter, or the local minibuses will take you there!

Once you get here, you’ll want to visit some of the main viewpoints. Not only that, but Sipiso Piso Waterfall is just a short drive away, so you should combine a visit to both.

3. Admire the views of Gunung Sinabung

Mount Sinabung is another stratovolcano that can be seen from Berastagi. With a height of 2,460 metres (8,070 feet), it’s no wonder that this striking volcano dominates the skyline.

Gunung Sinabung is more well-known due to its recent eruptions. Although dormant for 400 years, Sinabung suddenly began erupting in 2010. Since then, it’s erupted every couple of years so is considered to be highly active.

Unfortunately due to this, all villages within a 5 km radius had to be evacuated. All the local people had to be moved to other settlements for their safety.

From Berastagi, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Gunung Sinabung, especially from Gundaling Hill. There are also several ghost villages surrounding the volcano, that offer fantastic views.

However, you’ll need to be extremely cautious if you’re planning to visit the volcano. It’s possible to take a local minibus closer to Sinabung, but this place is extremely volatile.

4. Take a dip in the Berastagi Hot Springs

Relaxing in the town’s hot springs has to be one of the best things to do in Berastagi, Sumatra. This is especially the case after a long and sweaty hike to Mount Sibayak.

You’ll find several hot springs on the road back to Berastagi, so it’s up to you which one you choose to visit. Just keep in mind they’re not natural hot springs. Instead, you’ll be relaxing in concrete pools, each with a different water temperature.

Two of the most popular hot springs in this area are Pariban Hot Spring and Sidebuk Debuk Thermal Baths. Both offer fantastic views of the local area so take your time and just chill out! After a long hike, there’s no better way to relax those muscles.

Just keep in mind that the weather in Berastagi can be hot, so you’ll want to save this activity for a cloudy (or even rainy) day.

5. Visit the ghost villages around Gunung Sinabung

A total of six villages were evacuated immediately due to the eruptions of Mount Sinabung. These were Sukanalu, Gamber, Guru Kinayan, Simacem, Kuta Gugung and Sibintun.

The abandoned villages are all situated within the 5 km ‘red zone’ and they’ve become a popular tourist attraction. However, the area is restricted and although you likely won’t get into trouble, you visit at your own risk.

As everything in these villages was just dropped and left behind, they give off a very eerie feeling, hence the nickname ‘ghost village’. Sukanalu is one of the closest villages to Berastagi, and that’s the one we chose to visit.

The best way to get to Sukanalu is by hopping on a minibus to Kabanjahe. You’ll then be dropped off at Terminal bus Kabanjahe, where you’ll need to ask around (or show a picture of) the abandoned village. You’ll be dropped at the side of the road, and this is where you’ll need to wait for the bus on the way back too.

6. Experience Gundaling Farmstead Berastagi

You’ll find plenty of awesome things to do in Berastagi and this place is just one of them! Gundaling Farmstead Berastagi is a popular dairy farm which is just a 13-minute drive from the town centre.

Here, you can head out on a tour of a working cattle farm which is a really interesting experience. You’ll get to learn how the cows are milked, the pasteurization process, and how the cheese is produced.

During your time at Gundaling Farmstead Berastagi, you can even purchase some dairy products. This includes yoghurt and ice cream!

There’s also a restaurant on-site and the dairy products are used in many of the dishes. Here, you’ve got a variety of options to choose from including pizza, pasta, roast chicken, and BBQ beef ribs. There are some tasty desserts too!

So if you have a bit of spare time, make sure you head to this awesome place.

7. Take in the amazing views at Sipiso Piso waterfall

In our opinion, visiting this waterfall is one of the best things to do in Sumatra! Sipiso Piso Waterfall (also known as Air Terjun Sipiso Piso) is located over an hour’s drive from Berastagi town.

The name translates to ‘like a knife’ and it’s one of the largest waterfalls in Indonesia. At an impressive height of 120 metres (394 feet), this place will honestly take your breath away!

Once you reach the falls, there are two perspectives you’ll want to check out. First of all, there’s a breathtaking viewpoint at the top, and you’ll want to take some photographs from here. You’ll even get spectacular views of Lake Toba from this spot!

Afterwards, make sure you walk down to the falls themselves as you’ll get to feel the sheer force of the water. Once you’ve hiked back up the seemingly endless stairs, there are a few local restaurants where you can grab something to eat.

8. Hike to Air Terjun Sikulikap

Air Terjun Sikulikap is another of Sumatra’s beautiful waterfalls. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Berastagi town centre, and you’ll then hike to the falls from the car park.

The trail down to Air Terjun Sikulikap isn’t very taxing so is suitable for families. Just mind your footing if it’s been a rainy day, as the trail can feel rather slippery.

Aside from the beauty of the waterfall itself, there are plenty of other reasons to visit. For starters, the scenery in this area is spectacular, and you’ll also find lots of wildlife here too.

As you hike through the forest keep your eyes peeled for colourful birds and gibbons swinging overhead. Honestly, this isn’t a place that you want to miss!

There is an entrance fee but it’s only cheap. The only downside to this place is that unfortunately, there’s a lot of plastic lying around.

9. Head up to Gundaling Hill

There are plenty of awesome places to visit in Sumatra but you don’t want to miss out on Gundaling Hill. From the centre of town, it’s around a 30-45 minute walk up to the top depending on your pace.

If it’s a clear day, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak. Honestly, there’s nothing better than seeing these huge volcanoes tower above the surrounding landscape.

The walk up to the top isn’t very steep and you can admire the views as you go along. However, you can always drive to the top if you’ve got your own transport.

Once you’ve admired the views and taken some photographs, you can take a look at the souvenir shops in the area. There are a couple of small cafes located at the top of Gundaling Hill too if you’re feeling peckish.

10. Wander around Berastagi Fruit Market

Thanks to its location in the Karo highlands, Berastagi is a fantastic place for buying local produce. In fact, this town is famous for its fruit and vegetables; namely passion fruit.

Pasar Buah Berastagi is the town’s main market and it’s the best place in town to grab fresh produce. You’ll find a variety of fruits here including strawberries, mangos, oranges, and melons.

Better yet, pick up some mangosteen which is one of the area’s local delicacies. It’s still one of our favourite fruits to this day and is a weird mixture between sweet and sour.

Not only can you purchase fruit and vegetables here, but there are other vendors at the market. Whether you’re looking for clothes, souvenirs, or jewellery, there’s something for everyone.

There are a couple of other markets in town too, but Pasar Buah Berastagi is the most popular.

11. Admire Berastagi’s buildings

Not only is the scenery in Berastagi beautiful, but there are plenty of impressive buildings in town too. One of these is The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, which boasts striking traditional karo architecture. As such, it’s extremely distinctive.

You’ll also want to visit Taman Alam Lumbini which is located within Lumbini Nature Park. It’s Indonesia’s tallest pagoda at an impressive 46.8 metres (153 feet) high and is gold in colour.

You’ll also find several other pagodas in the complex and each one is distinctive. Not only that, but you’ll want to spend time exploring the grounds as the area is beautiful.

While in Berastagi, you’ll want to visit Museum Pusaka Karo too. The museum is set within an old catholic church so the architecture is pretty impressive. Just make sure you’ve got time to explore the interior during your visit, as you’ll get to learn all about Karo culture.

12. Have fun at Mikie Funland

Last but certainly not least, there’s Mikie Funland. It’s the first family theme park in North Sumatra and is the perfect place to take young children!

Found along the edge of the Berastagi Medan highway, Mikie Funland is a popular tourist spot that has more than 35 different attractions for children to enjoy. Not only does the theme park have plenty of rides and activities, but it also provides locals and tourists alike with somewhere to relax and enjoy nature.

You’ll need tickets if you want to enjoy the attractions but these can be bought at the park. Most of the rides only require one ticket per ride too.

When it comes to food and drink, Mikie Fundland has a decent range of options to choose from. There’s a fried chicken bar, a snack bar, the Jungle Resto, Dome and Bumper Bonanza, and more!

Helpful Information for Visiting Berastagi, Sumatra

How to get to Berastagi

As you’ll be flying into Sumatra, you’ll arrive at Kuala Namu International Airport. It’s the island’s main airport and is located in the capital of Medan.

From here, you can catch the bus to Berastagi. The journey takes around two hours and is extremely affordable. You can either hop on a bus at the airport or from the city centre.

If you’re already backpacking Sumatra then you can also travel to Berastagi from other destinations. This includes Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang. Public buses run on a regular schedule, and the locals are always happy to help you get to where you need to be!

An alternative to public minibuses is private taxis, and these can often be booked through your accommodation or a travel agent. Although more expensive, you can often split the cost if you find other travellers to share with.

How to get around Berastagi

Berastagi is a very small town so you won’t have any problems getting around. The majority of amenities are located along one main street, and you’ll be able to access most of it on foot.

There are some great hikes in the local area, one of which is the walk up Gunung Sibayak. You can reach the trailhead from town, and along the way, you’ll find a variety of hot springs.

If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, then there are plenty of public transport options. You’ll be travelling around the area in public minivan buses, also known as Opelets.

These run from the main terminal and will take you to a variety of destinations including Lake Toba and Sipiso Piso Waterfall.

You’ve also got the option of hiring your own motorbike if you’d prefer a bit more flexibility. Just make sure you’re cautious when out on the roads.

The best time to visit Berastagi

No matter when you visit Berastagi, you’re likely to encounter high temperatures, humidity, and rainfall. This is due to Sumatra’s tropical climate, so just keep that in mind. As such, you’ll want to pack lightweight clothing so you can keep cool.

Generally, the best time to visit is between January-April and June-July. This is the most popular time for tourists, especially if you’re looking to do a variety of outdoor activities.

We stayed in Berastagi during February, and had the most incredible time! Accommodation was extremely affordable during this time, and we didn’t encounter any major weather issues.

Just make sure you pack a rain jacket no matter when you visit, as you’re bound to encounter rain. Don’t let that put you off your adventures though, as the showers often pass quickly.

Travel tips for Berastagi

Berastagi is a wonderful destination to visit. To ensure you have the best trip possible – here’s some information you should know!

• For convenience, make sure you get a tourist sim at the airport. Not only are they affordable, but you’ll be connected to the internet throughout the majority of your trip.

• Food and other everyday items are really cheap in Berasatagi, and that goes for restaurants too. To save money further, stick to the local cuisine.

• There’s no shortage of public transport in and around Berastagi. However, the routes often aren’t very clear, so make sure you check before you hop on!

• The local people are extremely friendly, so make sure you embrace the experience!

Where to Stay in Berastagi, Sumatra

You’ll find plenty of great places to stay in Berastagi. Better yet, many of them are extremely affordable. In fact, you won’t find any luxurious options in town so it’s the perfect location for budget travellers.

Below are a few of our recommendations when it comes to hotels in Berastagi, Sumatra!

Budget: Kaesa Homestay

Kaesa Homestay is where we stayed during our time in Berastagi. It’s just a 5-minute walk from town and the owners are absolutely lovely! Not to mention you’ll have a tasty breakfast included with your stay.

The rooms are spacious and feature plenty of amenities including a private bathroom, a seating area, and a TV. The owners are also happy to help with anything you need!

Mid-range: Alloyna Country Cottage Berastagi

This is another great option if you’re looking to stay in Berastagi. Alloyna Country Cottage is a charming place that offers a variety of accommodation options, so it’s suitable for both couples and families.

On-site there’s free private parking and a shared lounge. You’ll also benefit from free WiFi and breakfast is available at the property too.

Booking.com

Frequently Asked Questions about Berastagi, Sumatra

How many days do I need in Berastagi?

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Berastagi, Sumatra. Not only that but there are some awesome day trips that you can take from here. As such, it’s not a place that you want to rush.

For the best experience, allow at least 2-3 days for your visit. This will allow you enough time to hike up Mount Sibayak, relax in the local hot springs, and take a trip out to Sipiso Piso Waterfall.

What is a good budget for Berastagi?

Like the majority of Indonesia, Sumatra is an extremely affordable destination. You can get so much for your money here, with accommodation, food, and activities being extremely cheap.

If you’re travelling on a budget, then you can get by on as little as £25-£30 per person per day. That includes accommodation and cheap meals. Activities in this area aren’t expensive either.

What is Berastagi known for?

Berastagi is famous for its fruit; more specifically its passion fruit which is delicious! You’ll find some great markets in town, where you can pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, so definitely check them out.

This charming town is also known for its volcanoes; two of which can be spotted from Berastagi; Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung.

Is Berastagi worth visiting?

In our opinion, Berastagi is certainly one of the best places to visit in Sumatra. Boasting a laid-back atmosphere, epic scenery, and charming guesthouses, this place has a lot to offer.

Not to mention there are plenty of awesome things to do in Berastagi! From relaxing in hot springs to hiking up volcanoes, this place has something for everyone.

Where to go after Berastagi, Sumatra

You’ll find plenty of fantastic things to do in Sumatra, so don’t just limit your trip to Berastagi.

If you’ve already visited Lake Toba on a day trip, then you won’t need to head there. However, we recommend spending at least a couple of days there to appreciate the area’s beauty.

During your time in Sumatra, you’ll also want to stay in Bukit Lawang. This village is located on the outskirts of Gunung Leuser National Park, which is one of the best national parks in Asia when it comes to spotting wildlife.

You’ve also got the Mentawai Islands which is an archipelago off the coast of West Sumatra. This is one of the best surfing spots on the island and the area also has rich biodiversity in terms of marine life.

If you didn’t have a chance to explore the city of Medan, then you should do so before your departure.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Berastagi, Sumatra

You’ll find tons of awesome things to do in Berastagi so don’t rush your time here. During your visit, you can either spend your whole stay in town or take a few day trips out to some of the nearby areas.

Whether you’re looking to hike up a volcano, relax in the local hot springs, or explore the market, you won’t be short of options. No matter what you’re after, Berastagi is a fantastic base!

It’s also a welcome change from some of the more touristy destinations in Indonesia. For the best experience, you’ll really want to embrace the local culture and people.

If you have any questions about things to do in Berastagi, Sumatra then be sure to get in touch with us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

Here are some other guides you may find helpful:

• The Ultimate Sumatra Travel Guide
• Bukit Lawang Jungle Trek
• Epic Bali Bucket List

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