Lake Toba in North Sumatra is one of Indonesia’s most stunning natural wonders and a true bucket list experience. This massive volcanic lake is over 100 kilometres long and more than 500 meters deep. Surrounded by lush green hills and misty peaks, it feels peaceful, wild, and completely unreal.
Right in the middle sits Samosir Island, a must-visit spot known for its traditional Batak culture and slow-paced charm. You’ll find unique houses with curved roofs, colourful dances, and handwoven ulos textiles still used in daily life. Reaching the island by ferry adds to the sense of adventure.
Lake Toba is perfect if you’re looking for a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. It’s a place to hike, swim, explore, or just slow down and take it all in. We stayed in Tuk Tuk for four nights and loved every moment. If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, this magical place deserves a spot on your itinerary.
How to Get to and around Lake Toba
Getting to Lake Toba
Flight
The easiest way to reach Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Indonesia is by flying into Kualanamu International Airport in Medan. If you’re coming from Malaysia or nearby countries, AirAsia and Batik Air offer direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Medan. The flight takes about 1 hour. For the best deals, check Skyscanner or Trip.com.
Public Bus from Medan
To get from Medan to Lake Toba by public transport, head to Amplas Bus Station in Medan. You can use Grab or Gojek to get there easily. From the terminal, buy a ticket to Parapat and hop on a Sejahtera bus, which runs hourly from 6 AM to 6 PM. Click here to check the latest bus schedule and travel info here.
- Duration: 4.5 to 6 hours (traffic dependent)
- Cost: ~IDR 60k per person
Once you arrive in Parapat, take a quick shared car or minivan (IDR 5k) to the ferry terminal. Ferries to Tuk Tuk on Samosir Island depart roughly every hour, with the last one around 6–7 PM. The ride costs IDR 25k and takes about 30 to 60 minutes, offering scenic views across the lake. Some hotels even have private ports, so you might be able to get dropped off directly at your accommodation.
Tourist bus from Bukit Lawang to Lake Toba
Coming from Bukit Lawang? A tourist bus is a hassle-free option. We booked with PT. Happy Track Tour for IDR 270k per person (cash only). While reviews are mixed, our ride was smooth and comfortable, with enough space and secure luggage storage.
- Duration: ~9 hours
- Includes several breaks for meals and rest
- Drops you at the Parapat ferry terminal
From there, just hop on the ferry to Tuk Tuk, and your Lake Toba adventure begins.
Private Car from Bukit Lawang to Lake Toba
For a comfortable and flexible trip, consider hiring a private car with a driver from Bukit Lawang to Lake Toba. It’s a great way to explore the region at your own pace. The cost is around IDR 1.4 million per car (up to 6 people), and you can stop at scenic spots along the way, like Sipiso Piso Waterfall and the Berastagi Fruit Market. The drive takes about 8–9 hours, and you can easily arrange this through your accommodation.
Ferry Across Lake Toba
To reach Samosir Island from Parapat, hop on the ferry for a scenic ride across the lake. The journey offers breathtaking views of Lake Toba and the surrounding mountains, making it a memorable part of the trip. Tickets are IDR 25k per person, and you can buy them directly on board.
Ferry schedules can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with your host for the latest times. The ride takes 30–60 minutes, depending on your destination on Samosir Island. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride across the largest volcanic lake in the world.
Getting around Lake Toba
Renting a Scooter on Samosir Island
One of the best ways to explore Samosir Island is by renting a scooter in Tuk Tuk. For around IDR 130k per day (which includes a full tank of fuel), you’ll be all set for two days of adventure.
With a scooter, you can cruise across the Aek Tano Ponggol Bridge, visit charming local villages, check out markets, chase waterfalls, and enjoy stunning viewpoints. It’s the perfect way to experience the island’s beauty at your own pace.
Walking Around Tuk Tuk
Tuk Tuk Village is small and perfect for exploring on foot. Everything you need – restaurants, cafes, and shops – is just a short walk away. For a more scenic experience, don’t miss the 4.2 km coastal trail on AllTrails. It’s great for hiking, biking, or a relaxed stroll, and it offers breathtaking views of Lake Toba. The trail takes about an hour to complete, and walking around Tuk Tuk is the perfect way to soak up the local atmosphere.
Did you know?
Lake Toba was formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 74,000 years ago, one of the biggest in Earth’s history. It’s the largest volcanic lake in the world, stretching over 100 kilometres long and 30 kilometres wide, with depths reaching 505 meters!
Top Things to Do at Lake Toba, North Sumatra
Samosir Island at Lake Toba is the perfect destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation. Explore Tuk Tuk and nearby villages, dive into Batak culture, try water activities, and taste delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re planning a Lake Toba day trip or a longer stay, this guide will take you through the top Lake Toba activities you can’t miss!
Visit Local Villages and Learn about the Culture
One of the best ways to experience Lake Toba is by exploring its local villages and immersing yourself in Batak culture.
The Batak people of North Sumatra have a rich history, with each subgroup boasting its own language, customs, and traditions. As you visit these villages, you’ll encounter traditional Batak houses with their boat-shaped roofs, vibrant textiles, and fascinating rituals that reflect the heart of the local culture. Here are some key villages to explore:
Tuk Tuk
Tuk Tuk is the main hub on Samosir Island and offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure. Wander through traditional rumah bolon (Batak houses), savour authentic Batak dishes, or try exciting water activities like kayaking or jet skiing. For a relaxed stroll, take the coastal trail on AllTrails, offering beautiful views of the lake.
Ambarita
A short 10-minute drive west of Tuk Tuk, Ambarita is rich in history. This village is home to Huta Siallagan, an ancient site where Batak kings held meetings and trials. The village also features the King’s Tomb, the final resting place of the first Siallagan king. The area is surrounded by a 1.5–2-meter stone wall and covers 2,400 sqm. The entrance costs IDR 10k, and parking is free at the entrance.
Another highlight is the Hariara Tree, a sacred tree in the village with deep significance in Batak culture, adding a mystical touch to your visit.
Tomok
A 10-minute drive east of Tuk Tuk, Tomok is one of the largest villages on Samosir Island. It’s home to a variety of cultural attractions:
- Pasar Tomok (Traditional Market): Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals offer fresh produce and local delicacies. It’s a great spot to grab souvenirs and experience the vibrant market life
- Batak Museum: A small museum showcasing Batak culture, including wood carvings and traditional outfits
- King Sidabutar’s Tomb: Explore ancient tombs adorned with Batak carvings, offering a glimpse into the island’s past
- Sigale Gale Dance Performance: Watch the captivating puppet dance featuring life-sized wooden figures. It’s an unforgettable experience showcasing Batak tradition! It also reminded us of the traditional puppet shows in Yogyakarta
Scooter Ride to the Hills Above Tomok: A Scenic Adventure
One of our favourite ways to explore Lake Toba (or any new location) was by renting a scooter and riding up to the hills above Tomok. The ride offers stunning views, and there’s a real sense of adventure as you navigate the winding, uphill roads.
Wisata Panatapan Dolok Nagugun Sipira (Bukit Sipira)
Start your journey with a visit to Sipira Hill, one of the best viewpoints on the east side of Lake Toba. The 40-minute ride from Tuk Tuk takes you through beautiful scenery, and the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. At 1,500 meters above sea level, the cool air and sweeping 180-degree panorama of Lake Toba make this a perfect spot for photos. There’s a cosy café where you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and even take photos with a swing. This spot is popular for engagement and pre-wedding photoshoots.
Pro tip: The higher altitude can get chilly, so bring a long-sleeved top and long pants to stay warm while you enjoy the view!
Air Terjun Sigarattung and Parhallow Viewpoint
On your way back, stop by Sigarattung Waterfall, a peaceful cascade by the road. It’s perfect for stretching your legs and snapping a few photos. Then, head to Panatapan Parhallow Warung, a charming café with stunning views of Lake Toba. We enjoyed some delicious local snacks: mie goreng special ayam (IDR 25k), pisang goreng (fried banana, IDR 10k), fresh orange juice (IDR 15k), and iced kopi susu (IDR 10k). The prices were super reasonable, and the friendly owner made us feel right at home.
Finish Your Day in Tomok
Before heading back to Tuk Tuk, spend some time exploring Tomok village. It’s a perfect way to wind down after a day of adventure.
Renting a scooter is hands down the best way to explore all the hidden gems around Samosir Island. It gives you the freedom to soak in the Lake Toba scenery at your own pace while discovering off-the-beaten-path spots.
Try Water Activities at Lake Toba
Lake Toba is perfect for adventure lovers with plenty of water activities like swimming, kayaking, jet-skiing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and fishing. For SUP rentals, reach out to Suptoba at +62(0)8214482 6000, or contact Sewa Jetski Samosir at +62(0)82267169455 for jet-ski rentals.
We swam right from our guesthouse at HuB Tata, where the water was warm, but we did notice locals using the nearby river for washing, which made us feel a bit uneasy. The water’s fishy smell didn’t help either. For a cleaner swim, head southwest to the pristine beaches where the water is fresher and clearer. We definitely wish we had gone there sooner!
Visit the Best Beaches on Samosir Island
Lake Toba isn’t just about breathtaking views and water sports, it’s also home to some beautiful beaches perfect for relaxing and soaking in nature. Here are a few must-visit beaches:
Parbaba Beach
A popular spot with white sand, Parbaba Beach is great for water sports and sunbathing. It’s an ideal place to kick back and enjoy the calm, inviting waters.
Batuhoda Beach
Just near Tuk Tuk, Batuhoda Beach offers convenience with parking, toilets, sun chairs, and local warungs. For an entrance fee of IDR 20k, you also get a free bottle of water. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Bul Bul Beach
Located on the mainland in Balige, Bul Bul Beach is a favourite for locals and offers a variety of water sports. Known for its stunning sunsets, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the views.
Each of these beaches offers its own vibe and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Lake Toba from a different angle.
Hike the Tuk Tuk Coastal Trail
One of the highlights of our trip was ‘hiking’ the Tuk Tuk Coastal Trail, a scenic 4.2 km circular route that hugs the shoreline. It took us about 1.5 to 2 hours, as we couldn’t resist stopping at the local cafés and warungs along the way for snacks and drinks.
The trail is easy to follow and offers stunning views of Lake Toba and the surrounding hills. It’s perfect for those who want to take in the natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
To make the most of the experience, we recommend starting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Explore the Mainland South of Samosir Island
Renting a scooter for a day is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Lake Toba, especially across the Aek Tano Ponggol Bridge to the mainland. We extended our scooter rental and spent the day discovering the area.
Visit Bukit Sibeabea
Our first stop was Bukit Sibeabea, a misty cape with winding hairpin turns, perfect for photos! The views are breathtaking and a great way to kick off your day.
Plaza Alaman
Next, we visited Plaza Alaman, a place where the Batak people gather to celebrate peace and unity. We were impressed by the huge Christ the Saviour statue, reminiscent of Rio’s iconic landmark. The entrance fee for scooter riders is just IDR 20k, and it’s worth the visit.
Hike Bukit Holbung
We then headed to Bukit Holbung, known for its stunning “Love Hill” view. The 2.9 km trail (starts at Warung Anisa) takes about 1.5 hours to hike and leads to panoramic views of Lake Toba and the surrounding landscapes, which reminded us of the Swiss Alps! The entrance fee is IDR 5k, and we recommend starting early to avoid the midday heat. Also, don’t forget sun protection and plenty of water.
Efrata Waterfall
Our final stop was Efrata Waterfall, about 20 minutes from Bukit Holbung. The rough road makes it a bit tricky to get to, but the IDR 7k entrance fee and peaceful atmosphere make it worth the journey. We relaxed by the waterfall before heading back to Tuk Tuk, wrapping up a perfect day of exploration.
Where and What to Eat at Lake Toba
Lake Toba isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delight for your taste buds too. The area offers a rich array of Batak cuisine, packed with bold flavours you won’t find elsewhere. Here are some must-try dishes when you’re at Lake Toba:
Must-Try Batak Dishes
- Arsik: A spiced fish dish that’s a Batak speciality, cooked with local spices, including andaliman (Sichuan pepper) for a unique kick
- Naniura: Think Batak-style ceviche. Freshwater fish, usually carp, is marinated in spices and served raw for a fresh, zesty flavour
- Manuk Napinadar: A traditional Batak chicken dish made with the chicken’s own blood and spiced with andaliman. It’s rich and full of depth
- Saksang: A spicy, savoury dish made with minced pork (or sometimes buffalo) stewed in its own blood and mixed with coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and turmeric
- Sambal Tuk Tuk: A fiery Batak sauce made from andaliman, chilli, shallots, and sometimes dried fish or shrimp paste. It’s perfect with grilled fish, meat, or veggies
- Tuak: Traditional Batak palm wine, often served at local warungs or bars, making it the perfect drink to enjoy with your meal
For vegetarians and vegans, there are still plenty of options, especially in areas like Tuk Tuk and Tomok. The traditional markets in Tomok and Pangururan also offer great local street food!
Recommended Spots to Eat in Tuk Tuk
- $ Horas Restaurant: Offering a range of both local and Western dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, this spot is great for any meal of the day
- $ Juwita Café: A budget-friendly café ideal for breakfast or a light meal. They also offer cooking classes to dive deeper into Batak cuisine
- $ Coffee2Go: A cosy breakfast spot serving up great coffee, fresh juices, and a variety of tasty dishes to start your day right
- $-$$ Romlan Restaurant: Known for delicious food at excellent prices, with highlights like their fish or chicken curry. Perfect for all-day meals
- $-$$ TaTaring Coffee and Resto: Our favourite coffee spot in Tuk Tuk! Enjoy their signature red velvet latte (IDR 25k) or sanger cappuccino (IDR 22k). They also serve up creamy shrimp (IDR 40k) and chicken mozzarella pasta (IDR 40k). Note: Closed on Sundays!
- $-$$ Jenny’s Restaurant: A relaxed spot for dinner with a variety of local and Western dishes. We loved the chicken steak with fries (IDR 44k), chapcai stir-fry (IDR 30k), and BBQ chicken (IDR 30k)
- $-$$ Rumba Restaurant: Pizza lovers, this one’s for you! Delicious, authentic pizzas in a relaxed setting
- $$ Tabo Coffee Roastery: A must-visit for high-quality coffee with a view. Enjoy expertly crafted mochas and sanger while enjoying freshly baked pastries
Where to Stay at Lake Toba
Samosir Island offers a variety of accommodations for every budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly guesthouse or a luxury resort, you’ll find the perfect spot by Lake Toba.
Great Places to Stay in Tuk Tuk Village by Lake Toba
- Hub Tata Guesthouse ($18/night): A budget-friendly option located right by the lake, close to local restaurants. It’s simple but comfortable, offering beautiful views. Note that it can get a bit noisy with nearby boats and roosters, and there’s no air-conditioning, but the serene lakeside views and hearty breakfast make up for it
- Toba Sunset ($25/night): A charming spot with balconies or patios offering gorgeous lake views. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for comfort
- Samosir Villa Resort ($35/night): A great choice for couples or families, with two large pools, a bar, and spacious rooms that come with both showers and bathtubs. This resort offers a relaxing and comfortable retreat with beautiful views of Lake Toba
- Tabo Cottages (from $40/night): A hidden gem featuring an on-site bakery with fresh pastries, garden and lake views, and a welcoming vibe. If you’re looking for a cosy, peaceful place to stay with a bit more luxury, Tabo Cottages is the perfect spot
No matter your budget, these hotels in Lake Toba offer great options to help you experience the best of the region. Whether you’re looking for simplicity or luxury, there’s a place to match your style and needs.
Practical & Budget Travel Tips for Lake Toba
Make the most of your Lake Toba trip with these smart and budget-friendly tips:
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May – September) is ideal for outdoor activities. For fewer tourists, visit during the shoulder months (March – April), when the weather is great and prices are lower
- Packing Essentials: Pack lightweight clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent, and sturdy footwear for hiking. For a full packing list, check out our Packing Guide
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind. We recommend SafetyWing
- Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially in religious areas, to respect the local Batak culture
- Getting Around: Renting a scooter is the most affordable way to explore Lake Toba. Always wear a helmet and check the scooter before use
- Budget Stays: For budget-friendly accommodation, guesthouses and homestays in Tuk Tuk offer affordable and comfortable options
- Safety Tips: Lake Toba is generally safe, but always stay alert in crowded areas. Solo female travellers should share their itinerary with someone
- For more tips on essential travel tools, check out our Ultimate Travel Resources Guide
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Lake Toba
Now you know, why Lake Toba in North Sumatra, is truly a must-visit destination! From cruising on its serene waters to hiking stunning viewpoints and experiencing the vibrant Batak culture, Lake Toba offers an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.
If you’re planning a trip to North Sumatra, make sure to explore both Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang. Jungle trekking, orangutan spotting, and soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Toba create the perfect combination for an incredible journey. The memories made here will last a lifetime.
We highly recommend these amazing destinations and can’t wait for our next adventure. If Lake Toba isn’t on your travel list yet, it’s time to add it!
Lake Toba Travel Map
Get Inspired
In the heart of Indonesia, shrouded in the mists of time and the lush canopies of the tropical rainforest, there is a land of natural beauty, where ancient volcanoes stand as sentinels over verdant landscapes, and serene lakes mirror the ever-changing skies. This is where the earth whispers tales of creation, turmoil and tranquillity, a true testament to nature’s breathtaking beauty.
Explore the rich culture, dive into the clear waters of Pulau Weh and explore the tropical rainforests of Bukit Lawang – one of only two places where you can see the Orangutans in their natural habitat. Visit the enchanting Lake Toba – the world’s largest volcano crater lake, where 74,000 years ago the Toba super volcano erupted creating a 10-year-long global volcanic winter, resulting in a mass extinction of humans leaving as low as 3000 survivors worldwide. Sumatra is rich in natural beauty, cultural diversity and ancient history that touched us all!
Looking to explore even more? Our 3-week Indonesia itinerary takes you through the country’s most incredible destinations.
