19Days Sumatra Nature Tour

19 DAYS / 18 NIGHTS SUMATRA NATURE TOUR EXPERIENCE & BEAUTY OF MINANGKABAU RIMBA ECOLODGE LEISURE

Enjoy Sumatra’s Natural Beauty and Relaxing Time on our 19 Days Sumatra Nature Experience—embark on an unforgettable journey through Sumatra’s breathtaking landscapes, where lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, and diverse wildlife await you. This adventure combines nature exploration with unforgetable of Sumatra tour..

Trip Highlights:

Bukit Lawang – Meet the Orangutans
Visit the famous Bukit Lawang, home to the endangered Sumatran orangutan. Explore the dense forests of Gunung Leuser National Park and witness these extraordinary primates in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a fulfilling nature experience and explore the pristine Leuser Ecosystem
Discover Sumatran elephants, Sumatran orangutans, and other flora and fauna in the national park

Berastagi – Volcanic Beauty & Highlands
Discover the charm of Berastagi, a highland town surrounded by stunning volcanoes. Hike Mount Sibayak to witness a breathtaking sunrise and relax in natural hot springs.

Lake Toba – The Largest Volcanic Lake in The World
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Lake Toba, a caldera lake with crystal-clear waters. Explore Samosir Island, rich in Batak culture and history, and marvel at its stunning natural scenery.

The secrets of North and West Sumatra are all part of your tour.
Discover the extraordinary and diverse beauty of North and West Sumatra through a road trip.
Discover the magnificent and pristine rainforests of Sumatra, its history, and its.

19 DAYS / 18 NIGHTS SUMATRA NATURE EXPERIENCE & BEAUTY OF MINANGKABAU RIMBA ECOLODGE LEISURE

Tour Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN MEDAN – CITY TOUR

Welcome to Sumatra! Upon arrival at Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, we will pick you up and greet you. A comfortable private transfer will take you for the city tour :

• Visit The magnificent Great Mosque of Medan or Masjid Raya Medan.
• Visit The Sultan’s Palace of Deli or Maimun Palace, with its grand architecture blending Malay, Moghul, and Italian styles.
• Visit A Chinese temple, reflecting the strong cultural presence of the Chinese community.
• Visit Kesawan Square, the charming old town area showcasing colonial architecture and local heritage.

After the tour, we will transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest of the day

In the evening we will take you to local restaurant for dinner on your own cost.

 

DAY 02: MEDAN – TRIP TO TANGKAHAN

After breakfast and check-out hotel, you will leave the city behind and begin the scenic drive to Tangkahan, also known as the “hidden paradise” of North Sumatra.

The route passes through Stabat and Batang Serangan village, its offering picturesque landscapes of countryside, rubber plantations, and small villages.

Your Arrival in Tangkahan in the afternoon than check into a simple jungle lodge surrounded by pristine rainforest. The evening is at leisure to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this remote eco-destination.

 

DAY 03: ELEPHANT WASHING ACTIVITY & TANGKAHAN RIVER SAFARI ( BREAKFAST + Picnic lunch )

Good Morning - Wake up to the sounds of the jungle before heading out on today’s extraordinary adventure. A short walk takes you to the Tangkahan Elephant Camp, where you will meet the mahouts (elephant keepers). Here, you can:

Participate in the morning bathing ritual, joining the mahouts in washing the elephants in the river.

Help with feeding the elephants, learning more about their daily care and habits.
After this heartwarming experience, continue with a river tubing safari. Enjoy the Floating gently downstream on inner tubes, surrounded by dense jungle and serenaded by the sounds of tropical birds. Midway, stop at a waterfall to swim, take a refreshing “jungle shower,” sunbathe on the rocks, or simply relax. A Picnic lunch will be served for you on the riverbank. You may also choose to visit nearby natural hot springs for a rejuvenating dip.

In the afternoon, go back to your lodge by foot through a local village, where you will have the chance to interact with local people and observe their daily routines, before heading back to your lodge.

*Optional: Instead of the elephant program, enjoy a 3-hour guided trek through Tangkahan’s lush rainforest. Spot fascinating flora and fauna, including Thomas leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, gibbons, and a variety of tropical plants.
(Note: Elephant activities are not available on Fridays or during Idul Fitri holidays)

DAY 04: TANGKAHAN – BUKIT LAWANG BY JEEP ADVENTURE ( B )

This morning, bid farewell to Tangkahan and embark on an adventurous overland journey to Bukit Lawang, traveling by rugged 4×4 jeep. The ride takes you through plantations, remote villages, and dense jungle trails, offering a glimpse of everyday rural life in Sumatra. Stops will be made along the way at:

A local plantation, to see the crops that sustain the region.
A village school, where you can observe the lives of local children.

The exterior of a palm-oil factory, a major industry in Sumatra. (it’s outside only)
Scenic viewpoints to adore the natural landscape and capture photographs.
By late afternoon, arrive in Bukit Lawang, the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the last strongholds of the endangered orangutan.

Than Check into your riverside accommodation, where the rushing sound of the Bahorok River and the jungle atmosphere create a magical backdrop for your stay-Bukit Lawang Medan Indonesia.

DAY 05: JUNGLE TREKKING IN GUNUNG LEUSER NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, set out on a guided jungle trek deep into the Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the richest ecosystems in the world. Trek for about 3 hours through dense rainforest, keeping an eye out for:

Semi-wild orangutans swinging gracefully through the trees.
Other primates such as Thomas leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, gibbons, and black gibbons.
Exotic bird species, tropical butterflies, and fascinating flora.
Your knowledgeable guide will explain the ecology of the rainforest, medicinal plants, and the importance of conservation in this UNESCO-listed ecosystem. After the trek, return to your lodge for a leisurely afternoon. You may relax by the river, explore nearby villages, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Accommodation: Ecolodge Bukit Lawang Cottage / Rindu Alam Hotel / Wisma Sibayak or similar accommodation
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 06: BUKIT LAWANG – BERASTAGI
This morning, travel from Bukit Lawang to the highland town of Brastagi , famous for its cool climate, fruit plantations, and views of surrounding volcanoes. The scenic route passes through villages such as Namu Ukur, Rumah Galuh, and Simpang Kuta Buluh, and offers dramatic views of Mount Sinabung, an active volcano.
Upon arrival in Berastagi, visit the following highlights:

Lhumbini Park, featuring a golden replica of Myanmar’s famous Shwedagon Pagoda.
The lively fruit and flower market, bursting with colorful produce and tropical flowers.
Gundaling Hill, a viewpoint offering spectacular panoramas of Mt. Sibayak and Mt. Sinabung.
Later, check into your highland hotel and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Accommodation: Mikie Holiday Resort / Sibayak International Hotel or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 07: BERASTAGI – SAMOSIR ISLAND, LAKE TOBA
After breakfast depart for the legendary Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake, with an island the size of Singapore at its center. The journey includes several fascinating stops:

Dokan Village (a traditional Batak Karo settlement with distinctive wooden houses)
Sipisopiso Waterfall (plunging dramatically from a height of 90 meters into a gorge, with sweeping views over Lake Toba)
Tele Viewpoint (offering a panoramic perspective of the lake from its western side)
Efrata Waterfall (another beautiful cascade nestled in the hills)
Lumban Suhi-suhi (where you can observe women weaving colorful traditional ulos textile)
By mid-afternoon, arrive in Tuk-Tuk on Samosir Island, set in the heart of Lake Toba, and check into your lakeside hotel.
Accommodation: Tabo Cottages / Toledo Inn / Samosir Villa Resort
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 08: FULL-DAY EXCURSION ON SAMOSIR ISLAND
Spend a full day exploring the cultural treasures and natural beauty of Samosir Island by car:

Ambarita Village, where ancient stone chairs and execution tables of the Batak tribal chieftains can still be seen.
Tomok Village, where you can view the centuries-old stone sarcophagi of the Sidabutar kings and learn about Batak burial traditions.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel and enjoy the tranquil lakeside atmosphere. You may take a stroll along the shore, interact with locals, or relax by the water.
Accommodation: Tabo Cottages / Toledo Inn / Samosir Villa Resort
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 09: SAMOSIR ISLAND FREE DAY AT LEISURE
Enjoy a full day of leisure on Samosir Island, the heart of Lake Toba. You may simply relax at your lakeside hotel, go swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake or hotel’s swimming pool, sunbathe on the shore, or take a leisurely walk through nearby traditional Batak villages. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, soak in the serene natural beauty, and experience the island’s
peaceful atmosphere at your own pace.
Or you can book optional experiences as follow :

Full day pusuk buhit mountain trekking (witnessing amazing scenery in pusuk buhit)
Lake toba cruise by boat (visiting Sigapiton Village – Situmurun waterfall – Eco Farming Village Silima Lombu) (min 02 person)
Accommodation: Tabo Cottages / Toledo Inn / Samosir Villa Resort
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 10: SAMOSIR ISLAND – PADANG SIDEMPUAN
After breakfast, cross by ferry back to Parapat and continue the overland drive southward to
Padang Sidempuan. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops at:

Plantations of pineapple, clove, and coffee garden, where the air is filled with natural aromas.
Balige traditional market, a lively spot showcasing local produce and crafts.
Sipoholon hot springs, with steaming pools set amidst volcanic landscapes.
Before reaching Padang Sidempuan, take a short walk along the Sarulla River, bordered by terraced rice fields, offering one of Sumatra’s most picturesque rural views. On arrival, check into your hotel for the night.
Accommodation: Mega Permata Hotel or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11: PADANG SIDEMPUAN – BUKITTINGGI
After breakfast, continue the journey to Bukittinggi, a charming town in the Minangkabau Highlands. The road passes through the lush Rimba Panti tropical rainforest, home to unique flora and fauna. Along the way, visit plantations of pepper, vanilla, cardamom, and cinnamon, learning about the spices that have made Sumatra famous. A special moment awaits at Bonjol village, where
you will cross the equator line, a unique photo opportunity. Arrive in Bukittinggi in the late afternoon and check into your hotel.
Accommodation: Santika Hotel Bukittinggi or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 12: BUKITTINGGI SIGHTSEEING TOUR – HARAU VALLEY EXCURSION
After breakfast, start the day with a visit to Panorama Sianok Canyon, famous for its dramatic cliffs and lush green landscape. Continue to see the iconic Jam Gadang Clock Tower, the landmark of Bukittinggi, and explore the vibrant traditional market.
Afterwards, drive towards Payakumbuh to discover the stunning Harau Valley, renowned for its towering granite cliffs, echoing walls, scenic rice field terraces, and charming traditional Minangkabau villages. Take time to enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere before returning to Bukittinggi in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Santika Hotel Bukittinggi or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 13: MINANGKABAU HIGHLANDS TOUR
Today’s tour reveals the fascinating heritage of the Minangkabau people, renowned for their matrilineal society and unique pointed-roof architecture. Highlights include:

A scenic drive to Batusangkar via Tabek Patah, with a stop at Rao-Rao village to see a traditional settlement.
A visit to a traditional coffee milling site, where coffee is still processed using old techniques.
Pagaruyung Palace, an impressive replica of the royal palace of the Minangkabau Kingdom, richly decorated with carvings.
A stop at Pandai Sikek, a village known for its exquisite hand-woven songket textiles and fine woodcarvings.
Back in Bukittinggi, return to hotel.
Accommodation: Santika Hotel Bukittinggi or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 14: BUKITTINGGI – EXPLORE LOCAL PEOPLE LIFE
After breakfast, enjoy a cultural immersion by visiting several traditional villages around Bukittinggi. Here, you will witness authentic daily farming activities such as rice planting in the paddies, farmers working the fields with the help of water buffalo, and if in season joining the local community during rice harvesting. This hands-on experience offers a deeper understanding of Minangkabau rural life. During the visit, you will also be treated to a local snack, such as fried tapioca or fried banana, freshly prepared in a villager’s home.
Accommodation: Santika Hotel Bukittinggi or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 15: BUKITTINGGI – MANINJAU LAKE TOUR
After breakfast, depart from Bukittinggi for a scenic drive to Lake Maninjau, one of West Sumatra’s most beautiful volcanic lakes. The journey takes you along the famous Kelok 44 Road, a winding mountain route with 44 sharp hairpin turns and breathtaking views.
Stop at Ambun Pagi Viewpoint, where you can admire sweeping panoramas of Lake Maninjau from above before descending to the lakeshore. Upon arrival, enjoy the tranquility of the area: take a leisurely walk through the traditional villages, stroll along the lakeside, or relax on the quiet beaches.
In the afternoon, return to Bukittinggi. On the way, visit Koto Gadang Village, renowned for its traditional silver handicrafts where local artisans continue centuries-old techniques.
Accommodation: Santika Hotel Bukittinggi or similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16: BUKITTINGGI – PADANG – BUNGUS BEACH & RIMBA ECOLODGE
After breakfast, depart Bukittinggi for Padang, passing through Padang Panjang. On the way, make a short stop at the scenic Anai Waterfall, one of West Sumatra’s most famous natural attractions.
Continue the drive to Bungus Bay, where you will cross by boat (about 30 minutes) to reach your eco-lodge. Transport and tour guide service ends upon arrival at the lodge.

Accommodation: Rimba Ecolodge (simple & basic accomodation~non AC)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

*The Rimba Ecolodge offers a unique eco-friendly stay, combining the tranquility of the tropical rainforest with the beauty of the Indian Ocean’s white sandy beaches. The surroundings are home to diverse wildlife including crab-eating macaques, gibbons, wild pigs, deer, and monitor lizards. Birdwatchers can spot hornbills, eagles, and kingfishers, while the nearby waters provide opportunities to observe colorful tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles.

DAY 17: BUNGUS BEACH FREE DAY AT LEISURE
Spend a full day enjoying the natural beauty of Bungus Bay. Relax at the Rimba Ecolodge, perfectly located on the beachfront, where you can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the white sand, or simply unwind in the peaceful tropical surroundings. The day is free at leisure, giving you the chance to enjoy the beach atmosphere at your own pace.
Or you can book optional experiences as follow:

Marak island + Pemutusan peninsula (snorkeling, white sandy beach + view point) (advanced booking required)
Accommodation: Rimba Ecolodge (simple & basic accomodation~non AC)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 18: BUNGUS BEACH FREE DAY AT LEISURE
Spend a full day enjoying the natural beauty of Bungus Bay. Relax at the Rimba Ecolodge, perfectly located on the beachfront, where you can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the white sand, or simply unwind in the peaceful tropical surroundings. The day is free at leisure, giving you the chance to enjoy the beach atmosphere at your own pace.

Or you can book optional experiences as follow:

Marak island + Pemutusan peninsula (snorkeling, white sandy beach + view point) (advanced booking required)
Accommodation: Rimba Ecolodge (simple & basic accomodation~non AC)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 19: RIMBA ECOLODGE – BUNGUS – PADANG / AIRPORT
After breakfast, take a scenic boat transfer from Rimba Ecolodge back to Bungus Bay. Upon arrival, meet your driver and enjoy a comfortable transfer to Minangkabau International Airport in Padang for your flight to the next destination.
This marks the end of your Sumatra journey. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you again to Indonesia.
Meals: Breakfast

Tour End

Included :
Tours and transfer by private air-conditioned vehicle from day 01 until day 16
Local jeep for transfer from Tangkahan to Bukit Lawang
Transfer from Bangus to Airport Padang
Ferry crossing from Samosir Island to Parapat
Return boat for crossing from/to Bungus to Rimba Ecolodge
Accommodation based on twin / triple sharing room
Daily breakfast
Fullboard meals during stay at Rimba Ecolodge
English speaking tour guide from day 01 until day 16
Elephant washing + elephant feeding at Tangkahan
Tubing at Tangkahan + Picnic lunch
Jungle trekking at Bukit Lawang (03 hours) included: local guide and permit
Entrance fee as per itinerary

 

Excluded :
Airfares
Airport taxes
Insurance
Donations
Tips
Porter
Lunch / dinner (which is not indicated on itinerary)
Elephant walking at Tangkahan
Camera permit at Leuser national park
Tour guide and transport during stay at Rimba Ecolodge
Excursion at Rimba Ecolodge
All personal gratuities.