Sumatra Adventure

Sumatra Adventure

10 Days Starting and ending in Medan

Visiting: Medan, Bukit Lawang, Gunung Leuser National Park, Gunung Leuser National Park/Bukit Lawang, Berastagi, Mt. Sibayak/Berastagi, Lake Toba

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

TIST

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $1315 $1249 Operator discount: -$66

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Steamy Sumatra is a rugged jungle paradise for all types of adventurers. The world’s sixth largest island is teeming with untamed nature and is home to many endangered species, including the Sumatran tiger, rhinoceros, elephants and the acclaimed orangutan. On this ten-day Sumatran expedition, travel from Medan to Bukit Lawang and explore Gunung Leuser National Park. Head to Berastagi and hike up the steaming active volcano Sibayak, basking in the glory of misty panoramas from the summit. Finish in Samonsir on Lake Toba, where the colourfully dressed Christian Batak people welcome you.

Highlights

  • Gunung Leuser National Park is your best chance in Indonesia to see orangutans in the wild. Hike through the jungle, home to some 300 bird species and the endangered Sumatran tiger, on a small-group camping experience.

  • Begin and end your adventure in Sumatra’s largest city: Medan. Explore the mix of Asian cultures in the city, noticeable in its colourful architecture and delicious mix of food.

  • Let your knowledgeable group leader guide you through the thickets of the jungle, past small cultural villages, and to the best places to eat around northern Sumatra.

  • Climb the Sibayak Volcano to enjoy panoramic views at its spectacular summit, then head to local hot springs for some well-earned rest and relaxation after the descent.

  • Explore Lake Toba and the villages on Samosir Island. Check out Indonesia’s highest waterfall and a take a cultural tour that includes a traditional Batak dance performance.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Coral Triangle Center Foundation. Donations help expand their coral restoration project and support their educational outreach activities for local schools in Nusa Penida.

  • Try to spot wild orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park during not one, but two hikes through the jungle – home to some 300 bird species and the endangered Sumatran tiger. Spend the night in the jungle soaking up the wild ambience and falling asleep to the sounds of nature.

  • Explore Lake Toba and the villages on Samosir Island. Check out Indonesia’s highest waterfall and a take a cultural tour that includes a traditional Batak dance performance

  • Begin and end your adventure in Sumatra’s largest city – Medan. Explore the mix of Asian cultures, which can be seen in the colourful architecture and within the delicious mix of cuisines.

  • Let your knowledgeable group leader guide you through the thickets of the jungle, past small cultural villages and to the best places to eat around northern Sumatra.

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Medan

Location: Medan

Accommodation: Hotel

Selamat datang! Welcome to Indonesia. The adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you happen to arrive early, perhaps check out Maimun Palace – designed by a Dutch Architect and built in the 19th century, it combines architecture from Malay, Indian and Islamic cultures and is now a museum. Alternatively, buy a ticket and take a guided tour of the museum at Tjong A Fie Mansion – known as ‘the historical jewel in Medan’, the Tjong A Fie was built in 1895 by a hakka merchant and is modelled on the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion in Penang. After your meeting, maybe grab some street food at one of the night markets in town.

Optional Activities:
-Medan - Maimun Palace
-Medan Grand Mosque

Day 2: Bukit Lawang

Location: Bukit Lawang

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast

Jump aboard a private vehicle and drive to Bukit Lawang. The first part of the journey involves quite heavy traffic, but the roads are nice and smooth. Closer to Bukit Lawang it gets bumpy and windy, so brace yourself for a bit of an adventure. The reward for the journey is Bukit Lawang – a peaceful village on the banks of the Bohorok river, right next to the Gunung Leuser National Park. In the afternoon you can take an optional tour in the countryside by becak (cycle rickshaw) or cool off with a refreshing swim in the river. There will be also be plenty of time to prepare for your jungle trek.

Optional Activities:
-Bukit Lawang - Countryside tour

Day 3: Gunung Leuser National Park

Location: Gunung Leuser National Park

Accommodation: Camping (with no facilities)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Set off on your trekking adventure through the Gunung Leuser National Park with an experienced guide. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans 7927 sq km and is one of the world's most diverse ecosystems. It's the home of many endangered species, including the Sumatran tiger, rhinoceros and elephants. These animals are extremely rare, but you’ll get the chance to go in search for wild orangutans. There used to be an orangutan rehabilitation centre here, but now these creatures have all been returned to their natural habitat, so this is your best chance in Indonesia to see orangutans in the wild. There are also 300 species of birds and many rare plants and flowers. Along the way, your guides will point out orangutan nests, edible plants for you to try, monkeys and birds. Tonight you’ll camp in the jungle – enjoy the atmosphere of the wild as the sun goes down and the guides cook dinner for the group.

Included Activities:
-Gunung Leuser NP - Jungle Wildlife Trek
-Gunung Leuser NP - Trekking Lunch
-Gunung Leuser NP - Campsite Dinner

Day 4: Gunung Leuser National Park/Bukit Lawang

Location: Gunung Leuser National Park/Bukit Lawang

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Today, your adventure takes you deeper into the heart of Gunung Leuser National Park. Following a hearty breakfast, head out on another invigorating trek, this time in a new direction, promising even more opportunities to encounter the park's incredible wildlife. Let the lush surroundings envelop you in a natural symphony of sights and sounds, then return to the guesthouse in Bukit Lawang to unwind in the afternoon. Settle in for a restful evening, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.

Included Activities:
-Gunung Leuser NP - Jungle Wildlife Trek

Day 5: Berastagi

Location: Berastagi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Say goodbye to the jungle this morning and head out for Berastagi – the home of the Karo people, a Batak sub-group with traditional villages (long houses) and your destination for the next two nights. Arrive after lunch, then enjoy the free time to explore at your own pace or take the opportunity to rest and recharge after two long days of trekking.

Day 6: Mt. Sibayak/Berastagi

Location: Mt. Sibayak/Berastagi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Your day starts with a short drive to the starting point of today's hike, which will bring you to the top of the Sibayak Volcano (2094 m). The trail can be quite steep, muddy and slippery, especially in the wet season. You’ll follow a shady jungle path which, towards the top, opens into an alpine setting. Long pants are essential to protect you from poisonous plants, and a trekking stick will also come in handy! From the summit, you can see (and hear) the steaming vapours escaping from the fumaroles of this active volcano. After the descent, sit down for a traditional bungkus lunch just in time to reward your hardwork on the hike and enjoy the views. You’ll then head back for a relax. You may also choose to go to the nearby hot springs for a soothing soak – after a few days of trekking, relaxing in these pools, which are all naturally heated by the volcano, will be a welcome relief.

Included Activities:
-Mt Sibayak - Picnic lunch
-Mt Sibayak - Volcano climb

Optional Activities:
-Berastagi - Hot springs

Day 7: Lake Toba

Location: Lake Toba

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, head to Lake Toba – surrounded by mountains, this spot is a peaceful place to relax. Formed by a huge volcanic eruption 70,000 years ago, a second eruption 50,000 years later created an island the size of Singapore in the middle of the lake (Samosir Island). Stop at Dokan Village along the way, where you'll find the traditional homes of local Batak families. From here, take a ferry across the glistening waters to Samosir Island, then drive to your lakeside accommodation. You have a free night to unwind and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance – your accommodation is right next to the lake and there’s nice views of the water, mountains and rice fields.

Included Activities:
-Dokan Village - Batak longhouse visit

Day 8: Lake Toba

Location: Lake Toba

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Embark on a day tour in Samosir today. Visit the Stone Chairs and the Simanindo Museum (in a traditional house). You’ll also travel up to a viewpoint on the island which gives you a panoramic vista of Lake Toba and the surrounding Sumatran countryside. Walk through nearby rice fields and stop by a local Batak house for a traditional lunch. Toba Island is dotted with many ancient and modern grave sites, several of which you’ll see today. You’ll also have the chance to attend a traditional Batak dance performance!

Included Activities:
-Lake Toba - Samosir Island day tour
-Lake Toba - Stone Chairs
-Lake Toba - Simanindo Museum
-Lake Toba - Batak Dance Performance

Day 9: Medan

Location: Medan

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Say goodbye to Lake Toba, then drive to the Lake Port. Hop aboard a rustic wooden boat and glide to Tiga Raja Port. Take a moment to peruse the stalls of the weekly market nearby, then head on to Medan. This is a bit of a travel day, but the passing landscapes are perfect to pass the time if you can grab a window seat! Arrive in Medan in the late afternoon, then maybe head out for a farewell dinner with your group and local leader, celebrating an amazing adventure.

Optional Activities:
-Medan - Maimun Palace
-Medan Grand Mosque

Day 10: Medan

Location: Medan

Meals Included: breaksfast

With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end in Medan this morning after breakfast. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (4 nts), Camping (1 nt), Guesthouse (4 nts)

  • Gunung Leuser NP - Jungle Wildlife Trek

  • Gunung Leuser NP - Trekking Lunch

  • Gunung Leuser NP - Campsite Dinner

  • Mt Sibayak - Picnic lunch

  • Mt Sibayak - Volcano climb

  • Berastagi - Hot springs

  • Lake Toba - Sipiso-Piso Waterfall

  • Dokan Village - Batak longhouse visit

  • Lake Toba - Samosir Island day tour

  • Lake Toba - Stone Chairs

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Gunung Leuser NP - Jungle Wildlife Trek
  • Gunung Leuser NP - Trekking Lunch
  • Gunung Leuser NP - Campsite Dinner
  • Mt Sibayak - Picnic lunch
  • Mt Sibayak - Volcano climb
  • Berastagi - Hot springs
  • Lake Toba - Sipiso-Piso Waterfall
  • Dokan Village - Batak longhouse visit
  • Lake Toba - Samosir Island day tour
  • Lake Toba - Stone Chairs
  • Lake Toba - Simanindo Museum
  • Lake Toba - Batak Dance Performance

Transport

  • Ferry , Private vehicle

Accommodation

  • Hotel (4 nts), Camping (1 nt), Guesthouse (4 nts)

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 3 (Camping) and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Mode of Transport

  • Ferry , Private vehicle

Accommodation

  • Hotel (4 nts), Camping (1 nt), Guesthouse (3 nts)

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Sumatra is less developed than other islands of the Indonesian archipelago. Due to limited tourism infrastructure, expect there to be more bumpy and windy roads, some longer drives and more basic hotels. On the plus side, you’ll feel like you’re off the beaten track!

    This trip involves either a partial or full camping experience, giving you access to more remote destinations at close proximity, and the joy of camping in the wilderness. This is a participatory trip – a fancy way of saying you’re not just along for the ride, but you are part of a team! Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and help out with camp activities like food prep and washing up. It’s all about giving your new travel mates and group leader a hand, and everyone knows there’s nothing worse than trying to put up a tent on your own! Keep in mind this is jungle camping with twin share tents and no facilities.

    Some of the best scenery on Sumatra is found on hikes. So, while this trip doesn't require a high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to partake in all activities.

    You may also want to check out our Best of Indonesia (TISSC) if you have longer time to explore in the country.

    You may also want to check out our Best of Indonesia (TISSC) if you have longer time to explore in the country.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

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12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

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Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

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Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$1315 $1249

Operator discount: -$66

Friday - Sunday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
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Apr 25, 2025 - May 04, 2025
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May 09, 2025 - May 18, 2025
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May 23, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
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$1420

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Jul 25, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
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Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
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Aug 22, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
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Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
$1365

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Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$1365

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Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$1315

Friday - Sunday

Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$1315

Friday - Sunday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$1315

Friday - Sunday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$1315

Friday - Sunday

Apr 24, 2026 - May 03, 2026
$1315

Friday - Sunday

May 08, 2026 - May 17, 2026
$1315

Friday - Sunday

May 22, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Jun 05, 2026 - Jun 14, 2026
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Jun 12, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Jun 26, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
$1420

Friday - Sunday

Jul 03, 2026 - Jul 12, 2026
$1420

Friday - Sunday

Jul 10, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026
$1420

Friday - Sunday

Jul 24, 2026 - Aug 02, 2026
$1420

Friday - Sunday

Aug 07, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
$1420

Friday - Sunday

Aug 21, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
$1420

Friday - Sunday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 04, 2026
$1365

Friday - Sunday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 18, 2026
$1315

Friday - Sunday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$1315
Prices last published on 06-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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