Private Tour
Into the Heart of Sumatra
Medan to Pedang – 14 Days
Expedition Overview
This immersive 14-day journey through Sumatra blends rich wildlife encounters, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and deeply rooted local traditions. From tracking orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park to hiking up Mt Kerinci — Southeast Asia’s highest volcano — the itinerary brings you face-to-face with the wild beauty of one of Indonesia’s least explored islands. You’ll sail across Lake Toba, visit Batak villages, discover crater lakes, and unwind on coastal beaches.
Travelling across North, West, and Central Sumatra, the tour offers a unique mix of soft adventure and cultural immersion. Stay in eco-lodges, homestays, and heritage hotels while engaging with local communities and learning about their ways of life. Whether it’s soaking in hot springs, visiting ancient stone courts, or spotting rare wildlife in the rainforest, this carefully designed experience takes you deep into the soul of Sumatra — offering variety, authenticity, and a sense of true discovery.
Highlights
WILDLIFE TREKKING IN GUNUNG LEUSER NATIONAL PARK: Explore one of Southeast Asia’s last great rainforests on a guided trek through Gunung Leuser National Park. Encounter endangered Sumatran orangutans in the wild, along with gibbons, hornbills, and lush jungle flora. This wildlife experience offers unforgettable moments in one of Indonesia’s most biodiverse protected areas.
LAKE TOBA & BATAK CULTURAL HERITAGE: Cruise across Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake, to Samosir Island. Discover Batak traditions by visiting Ambarita, Simanindo, and Tomok villages. Ancient stone courts, colourful dances, and royal tombs provide fascinating insight into the cultural heritage of the Batak Toba people.
VOLCANO TREKKING ON MT KERINCI: Ascend Mt Kerinci, the highest active volcano in Southeast Asia. This two-day trek includes camping at altitude, stunning panoramic views, and a sunrise summit attempt. It’s a physically rewarding experience and a true highlight for adventure travellers exploring Sumatra’s highland wilderness.
SCENIC DRIVES THROUGH SUMATRA’S HIGHLANDS: Travel through the scenic Bukit Barisan range and along Sumatra’s wild coastlines. Stop at crater lakes, hot springs, tea plantations, and traditional villages. Each leg of the journey reveals dramatic natural beauty and authentic encounters, connecting you to the landscapes and people that define the island.
Why Asian Geographical?
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Itinerary
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
Journey through North, West, and Central Sumatra on a 14-day adventure filled with wildlife, volcanoes, and vibrant cultures. Track orangutans, climb Mt Kerinci, explore Lake Toba, and connect with Batak traditions. This immersive tour offers authentic experiences, diverse landscapes, and meaningful encounters across Indonesia’s most untamed island.
DAY 1
MEDAN
Arrive in Medan, North Sumatra’s bustling capital, where your adventure begins. After meeting your guide, enjoy a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Gunung Leuser National Park. Watch the landscape shift from city streets to lush jungle and winding rivers. Arrive at Bukit Lawang Eco-Lodge, set on the edge of the rainforest. Take time to settle in and relax amidst tropical surroundings. You may hear the calls of gibbons in the distance or spot monkeys nearby. This peaceful setting is the perfect place to rest before tomorrow’s jungle trek in one of Indonesia’s most important wildlife sanctuaries.
DAY 2
MEDAN
Wake early for a guided jungle trek in Gunung Leuser National Park, home to endangered Sumatran orangutans. Walk through dense forest, crossing rivers and listening to birdsong. With luck, you’ll see orangutans swinging overhead or macaques rustling the leaves. Your guide will share insights about the park’s biodiversity and ongoing conservation. After lunch, return to Medan by road. Check into the JW Marriott Hotel, where you can relax in comfort. If time permits, explore Medan’s mix of colonial buildings, temples, and vibrant local life before turning in for the night.
DAY 3
LAKE TOBA
After breakfast, travel through Sumatra’s rolling hills toward Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake. Along the way, stop at traditional villages and roadside markets to experience daily life. Pause at scenic viewpoints and waterfalls before reaching the shore. A short boat ride takes you to Samosir Island, located in the middle of the lake. The cool breeze and wide waters offer a relaxing change of pace. Check into the Toledo Inn, where you’ll enjoy peaceful views and the warm hospitality of the Batak Toba people.
DAY 4
LAKE TOBA
Explore the unique Batak Toba culture today. Start with a visit to Ambarita Village to see ancient stone chairs and a traditional courtroom where village elders once met. Then head to Simanindo for a lively Batak dance performance in colourful traditional dress. End the cultural journey at Tomok Village, home to the tombs of Batak kings. Learn how the Batak people have preserved their customs through generations. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon with a deeper appreciation for this proud and welcoming community.
DAY 5
SIPIROK
Today’s long drive to Sipirok is filled with changing scenery and cultural stops. Travel through the forested Bukit Barisan mountains and past terraced hillsides and small farms. Visit a traditional Batak village, meet farmers at a pineapple plantation, and wander a bustling local market full of spices and fresh produce. Stop at natural hot springs with rising steam before continuing to your final stop. Arrive in Sipirok and check into the Torsibohi Hotel, set in peaceful surroundings, where you can rest and enjoy the cool mountain air.
DAY 6
BUKITTINGGI
Travel deeper into West Sumatra with a scenic 10-hour journey to Bukittinggi. The route winds through forested valleys, rivers, and highland villages, offering a true sense of Sumatra’s natural beauty. Visit a stunning waterfall, pause at a local botanical garden, and meet children at a rural school. A special highlight is a monument marking the equator, a reminder of your position on the globe. Arrive in Bukittinggi by evening and settle into either Royal Denai or Pusako Hotel for a restful night.
DAY 7
BUKITTINGGI
Begin with a hike through Sianok Canyon, where cliffs, rice fields, and jungle create a dramatic landscape. Walk for about three hours, ending in the quiet village of Koto Gadang, known for its silverwork. Return to Bukittinggi and choose how to spend your afternoon. You might visit a local family to try Padang cuisine and chat with residents, or explore colonial-era buildings and street markets. Whichever option you choose, you’ll gain more insight into the cultural richness of this historic town.
DAY 8
BUKITTINGGI
Take a scenic drive to Lake Maninjau, one of West Sumatra’s volcanic lakes, surrounded by hills and villages. You may choose to hike from Puncak Lawang down to the lake, following a winding trail with beautiful views. Alternatively, you can travel by minivan for a more relaxed experience. Spend time walking by the lake, taking in the peaceful atmosphere, or simply relaxing in nature. Return to Bukittinggi in the late afternoon for a quiet evening.
DAY 9
PADANG
Head to Padang via a beautiful coastal road. Along the way, stop at Artha Beach to stretch your legs and enjoy the sea breeze. On arrival in Padang, explore the city’s cultural and colonial heritage. Visit the beach, stroll through the old Chinatown district, and see buildings that reflect the city’s diverse history. Later, check into the Pangeran Beach Hotel for a comfortable stay. Enjoy the sound of the ocean and reflect on the journey so far.
DAY 10
KERSIK TUO
Begin a seven-hour drive into the highlands towards Kersik Tuo, a quiet village near Kerinci Seblat National Park. On the way, stop to see Lake Diatas and Lake Dibawah, known as the Twin Lakes, and admire the surrounding green hills. Visit a scenic waterfall and learn about tea production at a plantation, where you can meet workers and see how the leaves are processed. Arrive in Kersik Tuo and settle into Subandi Homestay, a cosy base surrounded by misty mountains.
DAY 11
MT KERINCI
Set out early for the climb up Mt Kerinci, Indonesia’s highest volcano. The trek takes six to eight hours through dense jungle, bamboo forest, and alpine meadows. As you ascend, the air cools and the views expand across the valley below. By evening, reach your campsite over 10,000 feet high. Settle in for the night, surrounded by stars and silence. Enjoy a warm meal and rest well — tomorrow you’ll aim for the summit.
DAY 12
KERSIK TUO
Wake before dawn to climb the final section to the summit of Mt Kerinci. The last three to four hours are steep, but the views from the top make it worthwhile. On a clear day, you can see the surrounding peaks and the distant ocean. Celebrate your achievement before starting the long descent, which takes about six hours. Return to Subandi Homestay by late afternoon. Rest, share stories, and savour the sense of accomplishment after conquering one of Southeast Asia’s great trekking challenges.
DAY 13
PADANG
Start the day with a local tour of Sungai Penuh, visiting a hot spring, an old mosque, and Lake Kerinci, framed by forested hills. Then begin the eight-hour drive back to Padang. Along the way, stop at Bungus Beach for a swim or simply enjoy the coastal views. Arrive in Padang and return to Pangeran Beach Hotel. After a long day of travel, enjoy a quiet evening by the sea and reflect on your journey through Sumatra’s diverse landscapes.
DAY 14
PADANG - DEPARTURE
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Padang. Take a final walk along the beach or unwind at your hotel. Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight. As your adventure ends, leave with memories of lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, welcoming villages, and the extraordinary wildlife and cultures of Sumatra. Whether heading home or continuing your travels, this journey offers stories and experiences that will stay with you for years to come.
The story
The inspiration for designing this expedition emerged from Sumatra's compelling blend of raw natural beauty and cultural richness.
Envisioned for those who cherish both adventure and cultural immersion, it highlights the island's unique wildlife, majestic volcanic landscapes, and the vibrant tapestry of local traditions.
This journey caters to nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone who revels in exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
What To Expect
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Dates & Prices
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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