Enter the tranquillity of Lake Toba, one of the most iconic natural attractions in North Sumatra, Indonesia, a work of art created during a long-ago catastrophe. At over 1,145 sq km, and a depth of up to 450 meters in places, Lake Toba is the world’s largest volcanic crater lake, as well as the largest lake in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest lakes in the world. This oasis, known as Danau Toba in Indonesian, offers a welcome respite from everyday life and is a highlight of any Sumatra tour package. Discover the depths of Batak culture while feeling the soft touch of the cooler mountain air.

More than 3 million members of six distinct Batak tribes make their home in the surrounding Lake Toba region. Each group has its own dialect, customs, and traditional Batak architecture.

The Batak cultural heritage is especially evident on Samosir Island, located in the middle of Lake Toba and connected to Sumatra via a land bridge. Samosir Island represents the heart of Batak traditions and serves as a spiritual and cultural center, inviting visitors to explore its history, villages, and hidden gems.

At Ambarita Village, be sure to see the mysterious Stone Chairs of Ambarita, which were once believed to function as a tribal court. These ancient artefacts, along with traditional Batak houses, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s historical past.

Take a 30-minute boat ride on Lake Toba to Tomok Village, home to the carved, boat-like tomb of King Sidabutar, one of the most important historical sites on Samosir Island. In an enclosure opposite the tomb are ritual statues of a buffalo sacrifice. At the end of an avenue of souvenir booths leading from the jetty, you will find kain ulos (traditional hand-woven Batak fabric), two-stringed mandolins, ornate wood carvings, Batak calendars, and other cultural souvenirs.

For those wishing to delve deeper into Batak history and culture, a visit to the Simanindo Museum is a must. Here, you can admire the traditional Batak houses with their distinctive buffalo-horn-shaped roofs and enjoy a performance of authentic Batak traditional dance.

ITINERARY – 4 DAYS TOUR LAKE TOBA & SAMOSIR ISLAND

DAY 1 – Pick up from Kuala Namu Airport
You will be met at Kuala Namu International Airport (Medan) by our driver and transferred by private air-conditioned car to Lake Toba. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic in Medan. Stops for refreshments or photos are available along the way.
Suggested accommodation – Hotel Carolina

DAY 2 – Lake Toba & Samosir Island Tour
Today, our driver will take you on a guided Lake Toba and Samosir Island tour, including a visit to Ambarita Village to see the stone chairs and traditional Batak houses.
Next, you will visit the Simanindo Museum to explore Batak culture through traditional architecture and a live cultural dance performance.

DAY 3 – Lake Toba + Tomok Village
Today, enjoy a 30-minute boat trip across Lake Toba to Tomok Village, where you will visit the tomb of King Sidabutar.
Afterward, there will be time for souvenir shopping, including Batak wood carvings and woven fabrics. The afternoon is free for relaxation by the lake or optional boat activities.

DAY 4 – Return to Kuala Namu Airport
After breakfast, our driver will transfer you back to Kuala Namu Airport for your onward journey.

INCLUDE

• 3 Nights Accommodation near Lake Toba
• Daily Breakfast
• Private Transport / Driver