A Glimpse of Sumatra

Sumatra, the sixth-largest island in the world, stretches over 2,000 km and covers 473,607 sq km. Home to more than 50 million people, the island is a melting pot of cultures—from the Malays and the matrilineal Minangkabau, to the Batak highlanders, and the indigenous communities of Nias and the Mentawai Islands.

The island’s backbone, the Bukit Barisan mountain range, is lined with nearly 100 volcanoes. Its tropical climate shelters rare wildlife, including the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan, tigers, and elephants.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Sumatra is during the dry season (May–September). June and July are the most popular months, offering clear skies and perfect conditions for trekking, diving, and cultural exploration

A baby orangutan clings to its mother's chest in a green forest setting.

Top Destinations in Sumatra

Bukit Lawang – Home of the Orangutans

Bukit Lawang is famous for its orangutan rehabilitation center. Trekking through the rainforest here offers a chance to see these incredible primates in their natural habitat

A tropical island with lush green trees and colorful houses along the shoreline, surrounded by water and mountains in the background.

Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in Southeast Asia, is a serene escape. At its heart lies Samosir Island, rich in Batak culture, traditional villages, and ancient stone relics.

Lake Toba & Samosir Island

Bukittinggi – Minangkabau Heritage

Bukittinggi is the cultural capital of the Minangkabau people. Highlights include the iconic Jam Gadang clock tower, traditional houses with horn-shaped roofs, and bustling local markets.

Nias Islands

Pulau Nias is world-renowned for its powerful waves, attracting surfers from across the globe. It’s also home to the famous stone-jumping tradition (Hombo Batu).

Elephant In Tangkahan - Sumatra Orangutan treks

Tangkahan is known as the “hidden paradise” where visitors can interact with elephants, even joining in the unique experience of bathing them in the river.

Tangkahan – The Land of Elephants

Aerial view of a volcanic landscape with a mountain in the background, lush green hills, and steam rising from the volcanic crater in the foreground.

Berastagi – Volcano Adventures

Berastagi offers cool mountain air and stunning views of Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung. Visitors can hike volcanoes, explore fruit markets, and relax in natural hot springs.

Weh Islands – Diving Paradise

Pulau Weh, located at the tip of Aceh, is a diver’s dream. Its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make it one of Indonesia’s best diving spots.

Mentawai Islands - Surfing Haven

The Mentawai Islands, off Sumatra’s west coast, are a tropical paradise famed for world-class surfing, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unique indigenous culture with traditional tattoos and rituals.