The Ultimate 10-Day North Sumatra Itinerary: Where To Go

Last Updated: February 7 2024

In our opinion, Sumatra is one of the most underrated destinations in Asia. Located in Indonesia, it’s one of the world’s largest islands and is home to rich tropical rainforests, towering volcanoes, and beautiful islands, there’s something for everyone!

Another huge bonus of travelling around Sumatra is that it’s extremely cheap. This, paired with the sheer amount of things to do makes it the perfect backpacking destination.

To help you have the best time, we’ve put together the ultimate North Sumatra itinerary! In this guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit, where to stay, and how to get around, among other helpful travel tips.

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The Ultimate 10-Day Sumatra Itinerary

You won’t be short of incredible things to do in Sumatra. Honestly, even if you spend a month exploring this wonderful island, you still won’t experience everything that it has to offer.

This backpacking route will cover the most popular destinations, starting with the capital city of Medan. We’ll then make our way to Berastagi, Lake Toba, and Bukit Lawang (Gunung Leuser National Park).

So let’s dive into this epic Sumatra itinerary!

Days 1-2: Medan

The first stop on this Sumatra itinerary will be the capital city of Medan. It’s where the island’s major airport is located so is likely where you’ll be flying to!

Although many people choose to head straight out of Medan, we believe it’s worth spending a day or two here. As the third-largest city in Indonesia, this bustling metropolis has a lot to offer. Not only are there some fantastic museums to explore, but you’ll find plenty of great food options in the city too.

Just be aware that Medan can feel like a culture shock, and the city does have problems with traffic and pollution. For those who are short of time, you can just head out of Sumatra’s capital, but it’s a great place to learn about the island’s culture.

Things To Do In Medan

The State Museum of North Sumatra offers a great introduction to your trip. Here, you can learn all about the diverse culture and heritage of this area, as there’s an extensive collection.

In this museum, you’ll find everything from archaeological artefacts to ethnographic objects as you head on a journey through North Sumatra’s history. As it’s only small, you won’t need much time to explore and the entrance fee is cheap, making it a great addition to any Sumatra itinerary.

Here are some other things to do in Medan:

• Visit Rahmat International Wildlife Museum & Gallery
• Explore Tjong A Fie Mansion
• Admire Graha Bunda Maria Annai Velangkanni
• Shop at Centre Point Mall
• Visit Maimoon Palace

Where To Stay In Medan

Budget: RedDoorz Hostel @ Capsule Inn Medan

If you’re looking for something very affordable check out this funky hostel. As the name suggests, this place offers capsule pods, rather than traditional dormitory-style accommodation.

Facilities at this hostel include a shared bathroom, a shared kitchen, and a 24-hour front desk. If you stay here, you’ll also benefit from free WiFi, air conditioning, and a flatscreen TV which is placed in the rooms.

Mid-range: Grand Mercure Medan Angkasa

Grand Mercure Medan Angkasa is a more costly option although rooms are still very affordable. You’ll be staying in a central location and there are plenty of rooms and suites to choose from.

The highlight of staying at this hotel though has to be the facilities. These facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and fitness centre. What more could you ask for?

Luxury: JW Marriott Hotel Medan

One of the most luxurious options in the city is JW Marriott Hotel Medan. It’s set in a great location, and some rooms offer panoramic city views. Breakfast is also available at the property.

Boasting several bars and restaurants, an infinity pool, a fitness centre, and a hair salon, the facilities are endless. Not to mention, there’s a spa on-site, so there are ample relaxation opportunities here.

How To Get Around Medan

Medan is a busy city, and it’s also one of the largest in Indonesia. As such, you’ll likely need to use some form of public transport to get around. However, just keep in mind that the transportation system here isn’t nearly as developed as other cities in Asia.

First of all, you can use buses to get around. There are larger public buses which have specific routes and there are also the Angkots (small minibuses). You’ll find the latter throughout the city, and these are convenient, but the routes can be complicated.

Two other popular transport methods include taxis and becaks (similar to rickshaws).

Days 3-5: Berastagi

Next up on this North Sumatra itinerary is the town of Berastagi, found in the Barisan Mountains. Surrounded by two towering volcanoes (Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung), the beauty of this place is jaw-dropping, and we can guarantee you’ll love it here.

Berastagi is the perfect destination for outdoor lovers, as there are plenty of awesome things to do. Hiking is a popular option, but make sure you dress appropriately and wear suitable footwear. It’s also a great place to relax.

The great thing about staying here is that there are several great day trip opportunities as well! These can be accessed by tour or on the local minibuses. To reach Berastagi from Medan, there’s a bus and the journey takes around two hours.

Things To Do In Berastagi

Hiking up Gunung Sibayak is one of the best things to do here, as you’ll be climbing an active volcano. Located at 2,181 metres (7,155 feet) above sea level, it takes around 3.5 hours to reach the summit.

You can either do this hike self-guided or you can head up on a tour, such as this sunrise hiking tour. You’ll have round-trip transfers included from your hotel and snacks. Just don’t leave this experience off your Sumatra itinerary!

Here are some other things to do in Berastagi:

• Relax in the Berastagi Hot Springs
• Take a day trip to Sipiso-Piso Waterfall
• Head to Gundaling Farmstead Berastagi
• Admire the views from Gundaling Hill
• Walk around Berastagi Fruit Market
• Have fun at Mikie Funland

Where To Stay In Berastagi

Budget: Kaesa Homestay

In our opinion, Kaesa Homestay is the best option in Berastagi. Not only is it very affordable, but you’ll be just a short walk from the centre of town. Breakfast is also included so what’s not to love?

We absolutely loved our time here, as the owner is lovely and is happy to help with anything you’d like. It’s also a great place to meet other travellers, and the rooms are very spacious.

Mid-range: Alloyna Country Cottage Berastagi

Alloyna Country Cottage Berastagi is another fantastic option. This awesome place offers several accommodation options, so there’s something suitable for every traveller.

If you stay here, you can relax in a shared lounge and there’s free private parking. There’s also free WiFi at this property and you can have breakfast before you start your day!

How To Get Around Berastagi

Berastagi is a small town so you’ll have no problems getting around. You’ll find the majority of amenities along the main street which are accessible on foot.

Not only that, but you can walk to the majority of Berastagi’s attractions. There are some great hikes that leave right from town too!

In terms of day trip opportunities, there are a couple of options. First of all, there are plenty of public minivan buses in the area (also known as Opelets). If you’d prefer to explore self-guided then you can hire a scooter, as rentals are extremely cheap.

Days 6-7: Samosir Island (Lake Toba)

No Sumatra itinerary is complete without staying on Samosir Island. This island is almost the size of Singapore and is located within the gorgeous Lake Toba.

With depths of up to 450 metres (1,476 feet) and an area of over 1,145 sq km (442 sq miles), Lake Toba is the largest crater lake in the world. It’s also the site of the Toba-super eruption, one of the world’s largest-ever volcanic eruptions which caused a volcanic winter that lasted nearly 10 years.

If you visit, you’ll be able to say that you’ve stayed in the crater of a supervolcano. Pretty cool right? Not only that, but the natural beauty of this area will blow you away, as well as the island’s tranquil atmosphere.

Things To Do On Samosir Island

While staying on Samosir Island, the best thing to do is simply relax. You can sunbathe down by the lake, admire the views, or head out for a swim (just be aware as the water is really chilly).

It’s the perfect time to get some downtime in before you spend a day or two hiking through the rainforest. So grab a book, put some sunscreen on, and head down to the lakefront.

Here are some other things to do on Samosir Island:

• Visit an authentic Batak village
• Wander around Tomok Market
• Watch the epic sunsets
• Try some of the local cuisine
• Take a day trip to Sipiso-Piso Waterfall (and other surrounding attractions)

Where To Stay In Samosir Island

Budget: Leokap Homestay

Leopkap Homestay is located in Tuk Tuk, the island’s main settlement. You’ll be staying in traditional settlements, located right along the lakeside, so you’ll be treated to stunning views.

The rooms here are super cheap and there’s a charming garden area where you can relax. Breakfast is also available from the property and you’ll benefit from free WiFi and free parking.

Mid-range: Juma Cottages

Juma Cottages is also located in Tuk Tuk. The rooms here are gorgeous and many offer lake views and a patio area/balcony. Honestly, there’s no better place to appreciate the views and watch the sunset.

The rooms here sleep between 2-4 people so are suitable for couples and small families/groups. There’s a restaurant on-site, and the property offers free private parking and a relaxing garden area.

How To Get Around Samosir Island

The best way to get around Samosir Island is by hiring a scooter. This way, you can really make the most of this Sumatra itinerary, as you can explore the lake’s surrounding area as well as the island.

As well as the ferry, there’s Aek Tano Ponggol Bridge on the other side of Samosir. This bridge offers easy access to the area, and its nearby waterfalls and hot springs.

If you don’t feel confident driving a scooter, then your other option is to hire a bicycle. Alternatively, public boats run between the lake’s towns, or you can rent a kayak to explore.

Days 8-9: Bukit Lawang (Gunung Leuser National Park)

A highlight of our Sumatra itinerary was our stay in Bukit Lawang, a small tourist village located on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park. This is where the majority of jungle explorations start, whether that be day hikes or overnight camping tours.

Thanks to Bukit Lawang’s proximity to the national park, you can spot a variety of wildlife right from the village. You might even hear monkeys clambering over your roof, or spot an orangutan further down the river like we did!

Even though you’ll be staying in the middle of nowhere, there are plenty of tourist amenities here including local restaurants, shops, and guesthouses. Not only that but there are other things to do aside from exploring Gunung Leuser (although that was certainly our favourite).

Things To Do In Bukit Lawang

If you’re wondering what to see in Sumatra, Gunung Leuser National Park should be right at the top of your list. Here, you can spot a variety of wildlife, tube down the river, and camp overnight in the jungle.

It’s mandatory to have a licensed guide while exploring the national park and our jungle trekking article details our experience and who we chose. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect.

Here are some other things to do in Bukit Lawang:

• Enjoy rafting and tubing activities on the Bohorok River
• Take a traditional cooking class
• Head out on a village tour
• Take a walk along the Bohorok River
• Try the local dishes

Where To Stay In Bukit Lawang

Budget: Fun Family Guest House

If you’re a backpacker looking to keep costs low, stay at Fun Family Guest House. This is where we stayed, and although the rooms are very basic, double rooms start from just £4.

The owner of this guesthouse is also a jungle guide and is who we did our trekking tour with. He’s extremely passionate about the local wildlife and environment, and his tour prices are reasonable.

Mid-range: Garden Inn

One of the more expensive options in Bukit Lawang, Garden Inn is another popular choice. Rooms are still very affordable, and this property offers a terrace and garden area where you can relax.

Both rooms and bungalows are on offer and some sleep up to 6 people. If you choose to stay here, your breakfast will also be included and there’s free WiFi. Some rooms even offer a balcony with jungle views.

How To Get Around Bukit Lawang

Bukit Lawang is a tiny village so you’ll have no problems exploring on foot. All the amenities are located close together, including restaurants, shops, and accommodation, which is a huge bonus.

Thanks to the village’s proximity to Gunung Leuser, you’ll head into the jungle on foot from here too. You won’t even need to take transport to the national park entrance. What else could you ask for?

For those who want to explore the surrounding villages and area, then tours are available. Just make sure you shop around for the best deal.

Day 10: Travel back to Medan

The last day of this Sumatra itinerary will see you make your way back to Medan. This is likely where you’ll depart from as Kualanamu International Airport serves Sumatra’s capital.

The journey from Gunung Leuser to Medan can take 3-5 hours, depending on the traffic. Unless you leave Bukit Lawang early in the morning, you won’t arrive back in Medan until the late afternoon.

As such, make sure your departure flight is in the evening or you can always stay in the capital overnight, and fly out in the morning. Just don’t cut this journey too fine as it can take a while!

Only Have A Week In Sumatra?

If you’re planning to visit Sumatra then we’d recommend spending at least 10 days here. A few of the destinations in this guide are located relatively far away from each other, so you need to allow travel time.

For those who only have a week in Sumatra, below is an example itinerary:

Day 1: Medan

Days 2-3: Berastagi

Days 4-5: Samosir Island (Lake Toba)

Days 6-7: Bukit Lawang (Gunung Leuser National Park)

*If you can, allow an additional day to travel back to Medan and catch your flight home. Otherwise, leave Bukit Lawang early in the morning and book an evening flight out on day seven.

Where Else Should You Visit In Sumatra?

If you plan to spend longer than 10 days in Sumatra, there are other fantastic places to visit. However, as Sumatra is such a huge island, we’d only recommend visiting elsewhere if you have plenty of time.

Either way, let’s take a look at some of the other options!

The Mentawai Islands

If you’re backpacking Sumatra and find yourself with extra time, head to the Mentawai Islands. You’ll find these gorgeous islands around 150 km (93 miles) off the West Coast.

Due to its remote location, the Mentawai Islands offer a fantastic opportunity to appreciate Sumatra’s culture, especially as hunter-gatherer tribes call this place home. You’ll also find lots of endemic fauna and flora on Mentawai.

However, it’s the surf that draws many travellers to these islands. All year round, you’ll find monster waves and swells, making it one of the world’s best destinations for surfers. To get here, you can catch a ferry or speedboat from Padang.

Kerinci Seblat National Park

Kerinci Seblat is Sumatra’s largest national park, covering almost 14,000 square kilometres (5,405 square miles). The natural beauty of this place will take your breath away, thanks to its lush tropical forests and towering mountain peaks.

Mount Kerinci is also located here, which is the tallest volcano in Indonesia. Although the landscapes are beautiful, it’s the park’s wildlife that draws people to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Not only is Kerinci Seblat one of the most important tiger reserves in the world, but it’s home to plenty of other species too. These include elephants, clouded leopards, gibbons, sunbears, and tapirs.

Banda Aceh

As the capital city of the Aceh Province, Banda Aceh has a lot to offer. It doesn’t make its way onto many itineraries but is known for its relaxed atmosphere, cultural significance, and spirituality.

Some of the must-visit spots in Banda Aceh include Ulee Lheue Beach, Masjid Raya Baiturrahman, and Museum PLTD Apung. However, the Tsunami Museum is the highlight, as it honours those who lost their lives (or are still missing) from the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami disaster.

You won’t need much time in Banda Aceh, possibly only a day or two but it’s a great place to visit.

Padang

While travelling in Sumatra, why not visit the city of Padang? Also known as the ‘Gateway to the Minang Highlands’, it’s one of Indonesia’s largest cities and is located in West Sumatra.

A highlight of visiting Padang has to be the food! There are many tasty local dishes to try, including Nasi Padang, and you’ll find some great restaurants here, including Restoran Sari Raso.

When exploring the city, make sure you take some time to wander around the Colonial Quarter too. Other attractions include the Adityawarman Museum, Air Manis (a popular beach), and Masjid Muhammadan. If you have the time, don’t miss out on Pagaruyung Palace either.

How To Get To Sumatra

There are only two ways to reach Sumatra; either by plane or ferry. Like with many other destinations in Indonesia, arriving by air is the most popular, especially as there are several airports on the island.

Sumatra’s main flight hub is Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), which is located around 35 km (21 miles) from the island’s capital city of Medan.

The majority of flights arrive from large cities in Asia (including Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Singapore). So, if you’re arriving from outside of Asia, you’ll need to make a changeover first when reaching the continent, as there aren’t too many direct routes to Sumatra.

Alternatively, you can catch the ferry from Java, Malaysia, and other areas of Indonesia. Java is the easiest option, as the journey from Merak Port to the port of Bakauheni in Sumatra takes just two hours. However, ferries can be cancelled due to rough seas and weather conditions.

How To Get Around Sumatra

In our opinion, the best way to travel around Sumatra is by using public transport. There are two main options; the tourist buses or the local buses.

The tourist buses are very popular with travellers as they offer the most comfort. Although prices will be higher, tickets are still very affordable, and you’ll have an exact departure time to go off.

The local buses are cheaper and offer you a unique experience, although don’t expect to be very comfortable. These small buses/minivans are often very crowded and you’ll need to go with the flow, as we didn’t find a timetable anywhere during our trip.

However, just keep in mind that taking public transport isn’t the best option for those who want to explore the whole island. Sumatra is huge and even if you spend 2-3 weeks here you won’t be able to visit everywhere, especially if you’re travelling overland on the bus as journey times can be long!

Other Ways To Get Around Sumatra Include:

• By air – If you want to get around Sumatra quickly, then you’re best off flying. Aside from Medan, other airports are located in Banda Aceh, Meulaboh, Padang, and Sibolga among others.

• By train – Sumatra only has a small train line network but it can be useful if travelling onward from Medan. There are rumours of this network expanding, so it might be a more convenient option soon.

• By ferry – You’ll need to use Sumatra’s ferries if you plan to visit some of the offshore islands. Popular destinations include the Banyak Islands, the Mentawai Islands, Pulau Nias, and Pulau Weh.

• Private car – For those travelling Sumatra as a group, hiring a private driver may be the way to go. The price can be split between everyone and you’ll have more comfort than public transport.

• Taxi – If you’re travelling relatively short distances then you can always opt for a taxi. Just make sure you agree on a price beforehand.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Sumatra

No matter when you travel to Sumatra, you’ll encounter a tropical climate. As the island is located along the equator, Sumatra is humid throughout the year, and you can expect average temperatures of between 27°C – 28°C (80°F – 82°F).

The dry season typically falls between April to October. During this time, you’ll experience less rainfall, making it a great option for those looking to hike. The waters are also much calmer, great for those heading to the islands.

Sumatra’s wet season lasts from October to January, although this may differ slightly between the North and South. Although there’s a possibility of monsoons, you can certainly visit at this time of year.

The wet season is a great option for those planning to go jungle trekking, as the trees bear more fruit. Because of this, you’ve got a good chance of spotting Orangutans. We visited Sumatra in February and found this to be a fantastic time of year to visit (yes, we saw orangutans, eeek).

Frequently Asked Questions About Sumatra

How long do I need in Sumatra?

In our experience, allow at least 7-10 days to make the most of your Sumatra itinerary. This will give you enough time to hike a volcano, go jungle trekking in the rainforest, and visit a huge volcanic lake!

Any less than this and you’ll be rushing your visit. Of course, you could always spend 2+ weeks in Sumatra which is a great option for those who want to explore the whole island.

Is Sumatra worth going to?

100% yes! Sumatra is undoubtedly one of our favourite destinations to date and we’d recommend it to everyone. Of course, it’s incredibly beautiful here, but there’s a wealth of fantastic activities on offer too.

Compared to the likes of Bali (also located in Indonesia), Sumatra feels very off-the-beaten-track. It’s not overcrowded with tourists, and you can enjoy a very authentic experience here.

What is a good budget for Sumatra?

Sumatra is a very affordable destination, and we’d suggest a daily budget of £25-£35 per person. Although this doesn’t sound like a lot, this will cover you for accommodation, food, and local transport.

For those who are planning to go jungle trekking or diving then your expenses will naturally be much higher. To get an idea of your costs, plan out the activities you’d like to do in advance.

Is Sumatra good for backpackers?

Thanks to its cheap prices, friendly locals, and variety of activities, Sumatra is the perfect destination for backpackers. Not to mention, you’ll get to embrace the culture and have some unique adventures.

Honestly, if you’re travelling through Southeast Asia make sure you visit Sumatra. This beautiful island has something for everyone and we can guarantee that you won’t be disappointed.

Final Thoughts On This Sumatra Itinerary

As you can see, this Sumatra backpacking route is jam-packed with awesome adventures. This incredible island has so much to offer, and sometimes putting together an itinerary can feel somewhat overwhelming.

Hopefully, this guide has given you an idea of where to visit and what to do during your trip. Whether you’re looking to hike in the rainforest, hike an active volcano, or relax in hot springs, there will be something to your liking. Just don’t rush your time here.

If you have further questions about this North Sumatra itinerary then don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or in the comments below!

Here are some other Indonesia guides you may find helpful:

• The Ultimate Sumatra Travel Guide
• Releasing Baby Turtles In Bali, Indonesia
• Visiting Pura Lempuyang Luhur In Bali

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