3-Days Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland From Medan City or From Kuala Namu airport

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape into the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of North Sumatra, this 3-day Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland tour promises just that. From tranquil lakes and towering volcanoes to traditional Batak villages, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural treasures.

What we love about this experience is its combination of beautiful scenery, cultural insights, and manageable logistics—all without the hassle of renting a car or planning each stop yourself. Plus, the inclusion of local performances, traditional villages, and scenic viewpoints makes it a well-rounded adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is a bit on the long side, with quite a lot of driving (around 4-5 hours per day). This might be tiring for some travelers, especially those with limited mobility. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate cultural richness and breathtaking vistas but want a structured, hassle-free journey.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transportation ensures a relaxed experience amidst long drives.
• Cultural performances and traditional villages provide genuine insight into Batak and Karo cultures.
• Spectacular views of Lake Toba and Sipiso Piso Waterfall are highlights of the trip.
• Includes accommodation at Taman Simalem Resort and Waterfall Lodge Hotel, offering good value for the price.
• Day 2’s Samosir Island visit features diverse activities, from museum performances to local markets.
• The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, culture, and structured itineraries.

Exploring the 3-Day Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland Tour

Day 1: From Medan to Taman Simalem Resort

The journey begins around 9:00 am with a hotel pickup in Medan or from Kuala Namu airport. The drive to Taman Simalem Resort takes approximately 4 hours from the airport or about 5 hours from Medan city. This initial stretch is a good opportunity to settle in and enjoy the changing scenery of North Sumatra’s lush landscapes.

Once you arrive at the resort, you’re greeted by friendly staff and can settle into your accommodation—here, the Waterfall Lodge Hotel. The resort offers a peaceful setting with expansive views of Lake Toba, perfect for unwinding after the drive. The scenery from the resort is a highlight in itself, with the vast lake stretching out below.

The best part of this first day is the opportunity to relax and absorb the natural beauty. You’ll also get a chance to enjoy the view of Lake Toba directly from the resort, which is often cited as a highlight by travelers. It’s a restful start that sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Samosir Island and Lake Toba Highlights

Rising early at 6:30 am, you’ll be briefed to prepare a breakfast box (as most hotels aren’t set up for early breakfast). The driver takes you to Tigaras Port, where a slow ferry awaits to carry you across Lake Toba to Samosir Island, one of the largest crater lakes in Southeast Asia.

The ferry trip lasts around 45 minutes, offering stunning views of the lake’s shimmering surface and surrounding mountains—many travelers find this scenic transit to be a highlight in itself. Once on Samosir, the exploration begins.

Your first stop is the Huta Bolon Simanindo Batak Museum, where a traditional Batak dance performance takes place twice daily (and once on Sundays). The dance, which depicts aspects of Batak life like buffalo slaughtering rituals—without actual slaughter—is a fascinating glimpse into local customs. Reviewers often mention how engaging and lively these performances are, with one noting the dancers surround a live buffalo in traditional costumes, creating an authentic atmosphere.

Next, you’ll visit Tuktuk Siadong, a charming village on the island’s peninsula. Here, you can enjoy local Batak dishes, Western cakes, and the beautiful lake views. It’s a relaxing spot to browse artisan shops and sample local snacks—an ideal break in the day.

Another noteworthy stop is King Siallagan’s Stone Chair, a small archaeological site where you can learn about Batak justice and social history. Although brief, it provides an interesting perspective on traditional law and societal structure.

The day concludes with a visit to Tomok Village, famous for its art market. It’s a lively place for buying souvenirs and traditional crafts, offering a taste of local artisan skills. The reviews highlight that visitors appreciated the opportunity to shop and interact with locals here.

Finally, you’ll return to Taman Simalem Resort by ferry and car, ending your day with a sense of the island’s cultural richness and natural beauty.

Day 3: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Traditional Villages

Your final day begins with a visit to Sipiso Piso Waterfall, often described as a jaw-dropping sight. The short walk from the viewpoint offers panoramic views over Lake Toba and the roaring waterfall plunging into the lake below. Many travelers mention it’s a must-see for its impressive height and scenic setting.

Next, you’ll head to Brastagi Highland, famous for its cool climate and active volcanoes—Sibayak and Sinabung. The colorful fruit market here offers an excellent chance to see and taste local produce like passionfruit, oranges, and exotic flowers. The market is lively and vibrant, making it a favorite stop for many visitors.

After lunch, you’ll visit Lingga Village, where you get a firsthand look at traditional Karo houses called Djambur. These structures house multiple families and keep cattle underneath, giving insight into rural living in North Sumatra. Reviewers often find this visit to be a fascinating peek into traditional architecture and lifestyle.

Your final stop is Lumbini Natural Park, a large pagoda complex perched on a hilltop. It’s a peaceful spot offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere. The park’s architecture and setting are noted as some of Indonesia’s most stunning, providing a spiritual and scenic end to your adventure.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the tour, a private, air-conditioned vehicle is at your disposal. This setup is ideal for long drives—roughly 4 to 5 hours daily—making the trip comfortable and stress-free. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking driver who also serves as your guide, enhancing your understanding of the sites.

Accommodation and Meals

Your stay at the Waterfall Lodge Hotel and Taman Simalem Resort offers decent value, combining comfort with scenic surroundings. Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are on your own, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine. The tour includes dinner on the first night, which is appreciated for its convenience after a long day of travel.

Price and Value

At approximately $371 per person, the tour covers transportation, accommodations, entry fees, and cultural performances, making it a reasonably priced package for a 3-day experience. Many reviews highlight that visitors felt it was good value, especially given the inclusion of guided visits and scenic stops.

Timing and Booking

Most travelers book this tour about 38 days in advance, indicating that demand is steady but not overwhelming. The flexibility of only private group booking makes it suitable for those who prefer a tailored experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer summed up the experience by saying, “3 days – 2 nights tour was a good experience. We visited a lot of local Batak aspects and very interesting spots on our way to Lake Toba, where the hotel was. We were happy with the Dutch-speaking guide. The driver was really good and nice.” This highlights the importance of having a knowledgeable guide and a smooth driver for a memorable trip.

Another traveler appreciated the cultural performances, noting how the traditional dance at Huta Bolon was particularly engaging, with dancers surrounding a live buffalo, which added an authentic touch. The scenic views from Sipiso Piso and the gentle pace of the ferry ride were also frequently praised.

The Sum Up

This 3-day tour combines the natural splendor of Lake Toba, the cultural richness of the Batak and Karo tribes, and the scenic beauty of North Sumatra’s mountains and waterfalls. It offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural discovery, and relaxation, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation and guided insights.

If you’re after a manageable yet immersive experience that captures the essence of North Sumatra, this tour is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, culture, and well-organized itineraries, especially if they prefer to avoid the hassle of planning every detail independently.

While the long drives might be tiring for some, the stunning views, authentic performances, and friendly local villages make this a worthwhile adventure. It provides a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and local traditions, making it a memorable addition to any Indonesia trip.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide.

Does the tour include accommodation?
Yes, two nights at the Waterfall Lodge Hotel and Taman Simalem Resort are included, offering comfort and scenic views.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts are included, but lunches, dinners, and drinks are not. Dinner on the first night is provided as part of the package.

How long are the drives each day?
You can expect about 4 to 5 hours of driving daily, covering scenic routes through North Sumatra.

Are the cultural performances authentic?
Yes, the Batak dance at Huta Bolon and other sites provide real traditional performances, often described as lively and engaging.

Can I skip any stops?
While the itinerary is designed for a full experience, some may choose to skip minor sites like King Siallagan’s Stone Chair if pressed for time or interested in more scenic views.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Generally yes, thanks to private transportation and manageable stops, but consider individual mobility levels, especially for walking at waterfalls and villages.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the views and moments.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private tour, some aspects can typically be tailored—discuss with your guide or tour provider in advance.

In essence, this 3-day Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to see North Sumatra’s highlights without the fuss. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, cultural insights, or just a peaceful escape, it’s a journey worth considering.