Medan: Bukit Lawang, Berastagi & Lake Toba Tour with Hotel

If you’re dreaming of lush rainforests, orangutans in the wild, steaming hot springs, and spectacular lake views, this 6-day tour in North Sumatra might just be your ticket. Offered by Orangutan Trip, it promises a well-rounded experience blending wildlife encounters, culture, and outdoor adventures — all with the convenience of hotel stays and private transportation.

What makes this tour especially appealing are the guided jungle treks that promise close-up wildlife sightings, including the chance to see orangutans, and the opportunity to hike Mount Sibayak at sunrise, followed by a soak in hot springs. Plus, you’ll get to explore Samosir Island, a cultural hub with traditional Batak villages and stunning lake vistas.

The only potential consideration? The itinerary is quite packed and involves some physically demanding activities like jungle trekking and mountain hiking, so it’s best suited for active travelers. If you’re eager for authentic encounters with nature and local culture, this trip offers a great value, especially given the detailed guided experiences included. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or those wanting to get a genuine feel for North Sumatra beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are front and center, with guaranteed orangutan sightings in Bukit Lawang.
• Local culture comes alive at traditional villages and markets, especially in Berastagi and Samosir.
• Outdoor activities include jungle trekking, mountain hikes, and hot springs soaking.
• Scenic landscapes like Lake Toba and Sipiso Piso waterfall make for breathtaking sights.
• The package includes hotel stays, guided tours, and entry tickets, offering a hassle-free experience.
• The value for the price of $702 per person is solid, given the diverse activities and accommodations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Arrival and Jungle Adventure in Bukit Lawang

From the moment you land at Medan Airport, your journey begins with a driver ready to whisk you toward Bukit Lawang, a small village famed for its proximity to Gunung Leuser National Park. The highlight here is a guided jungle trek, a prime chance to see orangutans in their natural habitat. Unlike zoo encounters, these orangutans roam freely, and guides will help you spot them among the trees. We loved the way the guides are so knowledgeable, pointing out wildlife and explaining animal behavior.

The trek involves walking through dense jungle, with a focus on wildlife observation. Lunch is typically simple—fried rice with tropical fruits—and the evening tent camping experience adds a sense of adventure. Staying overnight in a jungle tent built on a large wooden frame covered with a plastic sheet offers a genuine back-to-nature vibe, though it might be a bit rustic for some.

Day Two: Jungle to Mount Leuser and Berastagi

After breakfast, you’ll continue exploring the jungle and then cross a river by raft, providing a fun transition from rainforest to the mountain town of Berastagi. Travelers often comment on the refreshing jungle atmosphere and the chance to spot more wildlife.

The drive from Bukit Lawang to Berastagi includes passing through landscapes dotted with old villages and the Sinabung volcano—a striking sight that adds a touch of drama to the journey. The overnight stay in Berastagi provides a base for the next day’s hikes.

Hike Mount Sibayak & Discover Berastagi

Rise early for a sublime sunrise hike up Mount Sibayak, which offers panoramic views and a chance to witness the volcano’s geothermal activity. The area is dotted with steaming vents and bubbling hot springs, where you can cool off after the climb. Locals make use of these Springs, and travelers rave about the thermal baths as a relaxing end to the day.

In Berastagi, the local fruit market is a feast for the senses, with tropical fruits like rambutan, passion fruit, and bananas on display. It’s a perfect spot to mingle with locals and sample fresh produce—something we found particularly authentic and colorful.

More Great Tours Nearby

From Berastagi to Lake Toba

The journey to Lake Toba includes a stop at the Sipiso Piso waterfall, a stunning cascade that plunges from the cliffside, offering fantastic photo opportunities. The drive along the scenic route showcases North Sumatra’s diverse landscapes—verdant hills, volcanic terrain, and traditional villages.

Once at Lake Toba, you’ll settle into a hotel overlooking the expansive lake, the largest volcanic lake in Southeast Asia. The view of Samosir Island across the water is breathtaking, and the cultural tours scheduled here give insight into the Batak traditions through visits to Huta Siallagan, Batuhoda Beach, and Kampung Ulos.

Exploring Samosir Island

A highlight of the trip is the boat ride to Samosir Island, where you’ll see traditional Batak houses, learn about local customs, and enjoy the relaxed pace. Tour stops include Pangururan, Pusuk Buhit, and Holbung, each offering a glimpse into unique local life and history.

Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides who help interpret local culture and history, making the experience more meaningful. The day ends with a traditional Batak dinner at a local restaurant, rounding out the authentic experience.

Departure or Optional Extension

On the final day, you’ll take a ferry back to Parapat and then transfer to Medan or the airport. The organized logistics make this a smooth departure, leaving you with ample memories—and a lot of photos.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise, making wildlife sightings and cultural visits more engaging. The local food is another standout, with many mentioning how delicious and fresh the tropical fruits and local dishes are.

One traveler remarked, “The jungle trek was surprisingly comfortable, and the guides’ knowledge made everything so much richer.” Others appreciated the diversity of activities, from wildlife viewing to mountain hiking and cultural exploration.

Some noted that the rustic camping experience was a highlight, though a few mentioned that the tents are basic, which is worth noting if you prefer luxury accommodations.

The Value of the Tour

At $702 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—including hotel stays, guided jungle treks, entry tickets, and private transfers. The inclusion of diverse activities across different landscapes means you’re getting a lot for your money, especially since transportation and guides are covered.

While meals and drinks are not included, the local eateries and markets are affordable and plentiful, giving you freedom to explore and enjoy authentic flavors without extra cost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind some physical activity and rustic accommodations. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see orangutans and hike volcanic mountains. Culture buffs get plenty of opportunities to connect with local Batak traditions and visit traditional villages.

The tour’s structure might be less suitable for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or travelers over 80, given the physical nature of jungle trekking and mountain hikes. It’s also meant for those who enjoy a balanced mix of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights—an immersive experience rather than a luxury escape.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private car transfers from Medan airport to Bukit Lawang, between destinations, and back to Medan or the airport at the end.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but the tour provides recommendations for local eateries, and you’ll have opportunities to try fresh tropical fruits and traditional dishes.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, change of clothes, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, toiletries, and possibly a raincoat. Be prepared for weather changes, especially rain.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The physically demanding activities, like jungle trekking and mountain hikes, make it less suitable for young children, the elderly, or anyone with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for planning.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Chinese, which helps accommodate a diverse group of travelers.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day North Sumatra adventure offers a well-rounded experience for those craving nature, wildlife, and culture. From the thrill of spotting orangutans in the wild to soaking in hot springs and exploring traditional Batak villages, you’ll find plenty to enchant you. The itinerary’s balance of active pursuits with cultural insights makes it a satisfying choice for curious travelers eager to see the authentic side of Indonesia’s Sumatra.

While it demands a certain level of fitness and comfort with rustic accommodations, the genuine encounters and scenic landscapes more than compensate for these considerations. If your travel style leans toward active exploration and authentic experiences, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments in a stunning part of the world.

In short, whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a culture seeker, or an outdoor adventurer, this tour offers a thoughtful, immersive way to explore North Sumatra’s natural beauty and local traditions in just six days.

You can check availability for your dates here: