Lake Toba Travel Guide: Unveil Indonesia’s Hidden Gem | Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Parapat

Welcome to the first day of your Lake Toba adventure! Today we’ll focus on getting you to Lake Toba and exploring the charming town of Parapat.

Morning: Arrival in Parapat

If you’re traveling by air, you’ll likely land at Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) in Medan. From there, you can take a direct bus or a private car to Parapat, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Toba. The journey by road takes approximately 4-5 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to book your transportation in advance, especially during peak tourism seasons, to ensure availability and a comfortable start to your trip.

For lunch, head to one of Parapat’s local restaurants like Rumah Makan Khas Batak to try traditional Batak cuisine. Enjoy dishes such as Arsik (spicy carp) and Na Niura (raw fish marinated with Batak spices) to kick off your culinary journey.

Afternoon: Exploring Parapat

Spend your afternoon wandering around Parapat. Visit:

• Cristin Buah: Experience local life and pick up some unique souvenirs.
• Parapat Viewpoint: Offering stunning panoramic views of Lake Toba and Samosir Island.
• Bukit Indah Simarjarunjung: A hill offering breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.

Evening: Sunset Boat Ride

In the evening, embark on a sunset boat ride on Lake Toba. Many local operators offer evening cruises, giving you a chance to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the lake. This is also a fantastic opportunity to learn about the history and local folklore from the guides.

After the boat ride, return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation. Many hotels offer delicious local and international cuisine, making it easy to find something you’ll love. And don’t forget to unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Lake Toba as you prepare for the exciting days ahead!

Day 2: Discovering Samosir Island

Day 2 is all about exploring the captivating Samosir Island, located in the middle of Lake Toba. From cultural villages to scenic landscapes, this island promises a full day of adventure and discovery.

Morning: Ferry to Samosir Island

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the Parapat pier to catch a ferry to Samosir Island. The ferry ride takes about 30-45 minutes and offers stunning views of Lake Toba.

Travel Tip: Ferries depart frequently, but it’s a good idea to check the schedules or buy tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Midday: Explore Tuk Tuk Village

Once you arrive on the island, head to Tuk Tuk, a well-known village that’s popular with tourists. Here are some activities and places to explore:

• Traditional Batak Houses: Walk through the village to admire the unique architecture of the traditional Batak houses.
• Ulos Weaving: Visit a local weaving house to see how the traditional Batak Ulos cloth is made. You might even purchase a beautiful piece as a souvenir.
• Local Markets: Explore the local markets for handmade crafts and Batak souvenirs.

For lunch, dine at one of Tuk Tuk’s charming restaurants like Jenny’s Restaurant, which offers delicious local and Western dishes, all while providing a fantastic lake view.

Afternoon: Visit Ambarita and Tomok

After lunch, make your way to Ambarita Village, known for its megalithic stone chairs used by the ancient Batak king for cultural purposes. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the local history and traditions.

Next, visit Tomok Village, another vital cultural spot. Here you can explore:

• Old Tomb of King Sidabutar: Learn about the history of the Batak kings and the conversion to Christianity.
• Sigale-gale Wooden Puppet Show: Watch a mesmerizing traditional Batak ritual performance.
• Batak Museum: Dive deeper into Batak culture and history with a visit to the museum.

Evening: Relaxation and Lake Views

In the late afternoon, head back to your accommodation or choose one of the many picturesque spots to relax and soak in the stunning views of Lake Toba. You may also consider a leisurely bike ride around the village to enjoy the serene environment.

For dinner, consider trying Orari Restaurant, which offers a variety of local and international cuisines with a beautiful lakeside setting. Enjoy your meal while reflecting on the day’s rich cultural experiences.

Day 3: Nature and Adventure on Samosir Island

Prepare for a day of exciting outdoor activities as you delve into the natural beauty and adventurous spirit of Samosir Island.

Morning: Hiking to Pusuk Buhit

Start your early morning with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for a hike. Today’s adventure begins with a hike to Mount Pusuk Buhit, a sacred mountain to the Batak people. The hike offers spectacular views along the way and an opportunity to appreciate the rich flora and fauna of the region.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera for the breathtaking views.

Midday: Lunch and Hot Springs

After your hike, head to Pangururan, the main town on Samosir Island, to have a well-deserved lunch. A good spot to try is RM. BPK Anugrah Siopat Parbaba, known for its delicious Batak dishes and refreshing drinks.

Next, relax your muscles by taking a dip in the natural hot springs located in Pangururan. The hot springs are infused with minerals, making them perfect for a soothing and rejuvenating experience after a hike.

Afternoon: Explore Simanindo and Boat Trip

In the afternoon, visit Simanindo village, where you can dive deeper into Batak culture:

• Simanindo Museum (Huta Bolon Simanindo): This museum features an impressive collection of Batak artifacts and offers traditional dance performances showcasing Batak heritage.
• Traditional Dance: Time your visit to catch a traditional Batak dance performance, often accompanied by music played on Batak instruments.

Later in the afternoon, take a boat trip around Samosir Island. This provides a unique perspective of the island’s scenic coastline and a chance to see more of Lake Toba’s natural beauty.

Evening: Dinner and Local Music

Return to Tuk Tuk for the evening. Consider dining at the Tabo Cottages Restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while listening to live local music.

After dinner, take a stroll along the lakeside or relax at your hotel, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere of Lake Toba. Reflect on the day’s adventures and prepare for another exciting day ahead.