Best Places to Visit in Sumatra | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Sumatra Travel Guide
Quick overview of Sumatra with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Sumatra, Indonesia! This enchanting island is the sixth largest in the world and offers a plethora of unique experiences for travelers. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Sumatra is home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and magnificent volcanoes. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to encounter the critically endangered Sumatran orangutans and tigers in their natural habitat. For those seeking adventure, the island offers thrilling activities such as trekking through the dense jungles, exploring ancient temples, and diving in vibrant coral reefs. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the indigenous tribes, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and relax in the warm hospitality of the Sumatran people. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a cultural enthusiast, Sumatra is a destination that will leave you awe-inspired and longing for more.
Sumatra Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Sumatra videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Sumatra in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![Top 10 West Sumatra Indonesia – Best Things to do – The Highlights – Best Attractions [Travel Guide]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/7_gsNjlnE8w/hqdefault.jpg)
![Exploring SOUTH SUMATRA, Indonesia [Episode 13]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Pc5OBFJLmJ0/hqdefault.jpg)
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Best Places To Visit in Sumatra
1. Medan: Located in the northern part of Sumatra, Medan is the largest city on the island and serves as a gateway to the region. It is known for its vibrant street food scene, with numerous stalls offering delicious local delicacies such as nasi goreng and sate. Medan is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Maimun Palace and the Great Mosque of Medan, which showcase the city's rich cultural heritage.
2. Bukittinggi: Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of West Sumatra, Bukittinggi is a charming town that offers a glimpse into the Minangkabau culture. The town is famous for its traditional architecture, with unique curved roofs adorning many of its buildings. Visitors can explore the bustling market of Pasar Atas, visit the iconic Jam Gadang clock tower, or venture to the nearby Ngarai Sianok canyon for breathtaking views.
3. Lake Toba: Situated in the heart of Sumatra, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The serene lake is surrounded by lush green mountains and dotted with traditional Batak villages. Visitors can relax on the lake's shores, take a boat ride to Samosir Island, or immerse themselves in the local culture by attending a traditional Batak dance performance.
4. Padang: Known for its mouthwatering cuisine, Padang is a coastal city that offers a delightful culinary experience. The city is famous for its spicy and flavorful dishes, served in a unique style called "Padang food" where a variety of dishes are laid out on the table for diners to choose from. In addition to its culinary delights, Padang also boasts beautiful beaches, such as Air Manis Beach, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun.
5. Banda Aceh: Located on the northern tip of Sumatra, Banda Aceh is a city with a rich history and cultural significance. It is known for its strong Islamic heritage, with numerous mosques and Islamic landmarks scattered throughout the city. One of the most iconic sites is the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, which showcases stunning architecture and serves as a symbol of resilience after the devastating 2004 tsunami. Banda Aceh also offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant local market.
6. Palembang: Situated on the eastern coast of Sumatra, Palembang is the capital city of South Sumatra province. It is renowned for its historical significance as the center of the ancient Srivijaya Empire. Visitors can explore the remnants of this empire at the Musi River, where the iconic Ampera Bridge stands as a symbol of the city. Palembang is also famous for its traditional culinary delights, such as pempek (fishcake) and tekwan (fish soup).
7. Pekanbaru: As the capital city of Riau province, Pekanbaru is a bustling city that offers a mix of modernity and traditional charm. It is known for its vibrant shopping scene, with numerous malls and markets offering a wide range of goods. Pekanbaru is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Taman Wisata Alam Mayang Mangurai, where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the city.
8. Jambi: Located in the eastern part of Sumatra, Jambi is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage. It is home to the ancient Muaro Jambi Temple Complex, which dates back to the 7th century and showcases the influence of Hindu-Buddhist civilization in the region. Jambi is also known for its natural attractions, including the Kerinci Seblat National Park, which offers opportunities for trekking and wildlife spotting.
9. Lampung: Situated on the southern tip of Sumatra, Lampung is a province that offers a diverse range of attractions. The city of Bandar Lampung serves as the gateway to the province and offers beautiful beaches, such as Pantai Mutun and Pantai Tanjung Setia, where visitors can enjoy water sports and relax by the sea. Lampung is also known for its traditional dance and music performances, which showcase the local culture.
10. Bengkulu: Located on the western coast of Sumatra, Bengkulu is a city that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling urban life. It is known for its pristine beaches, such as Pantai Panjang and Pantai Tapak Paderi, where visitors can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. Bengkulu is also home to historical landmarks, including Fort Marlborough, which was built by the British in the 18th century and offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past.
Hotels Map Of Sumatra
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Tours And Activities In Sumatra
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Food & Drinks To Try In Sumatra
1. Rendang: This is a must-try dish in Sumatra. It is a slow-cooked beef dish with a rich and flavorful sauce made from coconut milk and various spices. The meat becomes tender and infused with the aromatic spices, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
2. Gulai: Another popular dish in Sumatra is Gulai, which is a type of curry. It is typically made with meat, such as chicken or goat, cooked in a thick and creamy sauce made from coconut milk and a blend of spices. The combination of spices gives it a unique and aromatic flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
3. Sate Padang: Sate Padang is a famous street food in Sumatra. It consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually beef or chicken, served with a rich and spicy peanut sauce. The meat is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices before being grilled, resulting in a juicy and tender texture. The peanut sauce adds a creamy and slightly spicy kick to the dish.
4. Martabak: Martabak is a popular snack in Sumatra. It is a type of stuffed pancake that can be either sweet or savory. The sweet version is filled with a mixture of chocolate, cheese, and condensed milk, while the savory version is filled with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It is usually fried until crispy and served hot, making it a delicious and satisfying treat.
5. Kopi Luwak: Sumatra is known for its coffee, and one of the most famous varieties is Kopi Luwak. It is made from coffee beans that have been eaten and excreted by the Asian palm civet, a small mammal native to the region. The beans are collected, cleaned, roasted, and ground to produce a unique and highly sought-after coffee with a smooth and rich flavor.
6. Teh Tarik: Teh Tarik, which translates to "pulled tea," is a popular drink in Sumatra. It is made by pouring hot tea back and forth between two containers to create a frothy and creamy texture. The tea is sweetened with condensed milk, giving it a rich and indulgent taste. It is a refreshing and comforting beverage that is perfect for enjoying with a meal or on its own.
7. Bika Ambon: Bika Ambon is a traditional Indonesian cake that originated in Sumatra. It is a sweet and sticky cake made from a mixture of rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar. The cake has a unique texture, with a slightly chewy and spongy interior and a crispy outer layer. It is often flavored with pandan leaves, giving it a fragrant and aromatic taste.
8. Es Campur: Es Campur is a popular dessert in Sumatra. It is a refreshing and colorful mix of various ingredients, such as shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, fruits, jellies, and syrup. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful and cooling treat, especially on hot days.
9. Durian: Although it may not be for everyone, Durian is a fruit that is highly regarded in Sumatra. Known as the "king of fruits," it has a strong and distinctive smell that some people find overpowering. However, those who enjoy it describe the taste as creamy and sweet, with hints of caramel and almond. It is often eaten fresh or used in various desserts and dishes.
10. Sambal: Sambal is a spicy condiment that is commonly found in Sumatra. It is made from a mixture of chili peppers, garlic, shallots, and various spices. Sambal adds a fiery kick to any dish and is often served as a side condiment or used as a flavoring in cooking. It is a staple in Indonesian cuisine and a must-try for those who enjoy spicy flavors.
Best Time To Visit Sumatra
The best time to visit Sumatra, Indonesia is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the island's natural attractions. The wet season, which occurs from November to March, brings heavy rainfall and increased humidity, making it less favorable for outdoor activities. However, if you don't mind the rain, visiting during the wet season can offer a unique experience as the island's lush rainforests come to life and the waterfalls are at their most impressive.
Flight Calendar For Sumatra
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Transportation To Sumatra
There are several transportation options to get to Sumatra, Indonesia:
1. Flight: The most convenient way to reach Sumatra is by flying into one of the major airports on the island, such as Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, Minangkabau International Airport in Padang, or Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport in Palembang. There are domestic and international flights available to these airports from various cities in Indonesia and other countries.
2. Ferry: If you are coming from other islands in Indonesia, you can take a ferry to Sumatra. There are ferry services connecting Sumatra with islands like Java, Bali, and Borneo. The main ferry ports in Sumatra are Belawan in Medan, Bakauheni in Lampung, and Bandar Lampung in Lampung.
3. Bus: If you are already in Indonesia, you can take a bus to Sumatra from other cities in the country. There are long-distance bus services that connect Sumatra with cities like Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya. The journey can take several hours or even overnight, depending on the distance.
4. Train: There is a train service available from Jakarta to Medan, which is a major city in Sumatra. The train journey takes around 30 hours and offers a scenic route through the island of Sumatra.
5. Car rental: If you prefer to have more flexibility and explore Sumatra at your own pace, you can rent a car and drive to the island. However, keep in mind that the road conditions in some parts of Sumatra may not be as developed as in other areas, so it is important to plan your route and be prepared for longer travel times.
Once you are in Sumatra, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, buses, and ojeks (motorcycle taxis) to get around the island and explore its various attractions.