Bossku Tour & Travel

Sumatera Utara

North Sumatra, located on the northern part of Sumatra Island, is one of Indonesia’s most diverse and captivating provinces. It’s home to breathtaking landscapes — from the volcanic highlands of Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak to the serene beauty of Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. The region’s cultural richness comes from its multiethnic population, including Batak, Malay, Karo, Mandailing, and Nias communities, each with distinct traditions, music, and architecture. Its capital, Medan, is a bustling city known for its colonial heritage, culinary diversity, and warm hospitality. North Sumatra blends natural wonders, history, and culture, making it one of Indonesia’s most fascinating destinations.

Best Time To Visit

May - September (dry season with clear skies and great outdoor conditions)

Climate

Tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures year-round (average 23–32°C). Rainfall is frequent, especially from October to March.

Travel Etiquette in North Sumatra

• Learn basic local phrases such as 'Horas!' — a Batak greeting symbolizing warmth and respect.
• Visit cultural villages and support local artisans by buying handmade crafts.
• Dress modestly when entering religious sites or traditional Batak houses.
• Try regional coffee and food — North Sumatra is famous for its rich flavors.
• Take time to talk with locals; they are friendly and enjoy sharing their culture.
• Respect nature — keep national parks and waterfalls clean.
• Join local festivals like Lake Toba Festival to experience authentic traditions.

Things to Avoid in North Sumatra

• Avoid littering, especially near lakes and natural sites.
• Do not disrespect traditional ceremonies or interrupt local rituals.
• Avoid public criticism of local customs or religion — maintain cultural sensitivity.
• Do not swim or dive in unmarked areas of Lake Toba without a guide.
• Avoid touching people’s heads — it is considered impolite in local culture.
• Do not bargain aggressively or show frustration when negotiating prices.
• Avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife in protected areas like Bukit Lawang.

Travel Tips

• Bring light, comfortable clothing but also a jacket for highland areas like Berastagi.
• Be respectful when visiting Batak villages — ask before taking photos.
• Always negotiate prices gently in local markets.
• Cash is essential in rural areas; ATMs may be limited outside Medan.
• Avoid swimming in restricted areas of Lake Toba for safety reasons.
• Try local transportation like becak (motor rickshaw) for short city trips.
• Respect wildlife regulations and avoid feeding animals in national parks.

Popular Foods

• Bika Ambon — Sweet and chewy honeycomb cake made with coconut milk and pandan.
• Soto Medan — Rich coconut milk soup with beef or chicken and aromatic spices.
• Lontong Medan — Rice cake served with vegetables, curry, and sambal.
• Arsik — Traditional Batak fish dish cooked with andaliman and torch ginger.
• Naniura — Raw carp fish marinated with Batak spices, often called Batak-style sashimi.
• BPK (Babi Panggang Karo) — Grilled pork served with spicy sambal and rice (popular among Karo Batak).
• Durian Medan — Famous for its creamy texture and strong aroma, a must-try fruit in the region.

Top Activities

• Explore Lake Toba and visit Samosir Island to experience Batak culture.
• Trek Mount Sibayak or Mount Sinabung for stunning sunrise views.
• Visit Sipiso-piso Waterfall and enjoy the view of Lake Toba from above.
• Go jungle trekking in Bukit Lawang to see wild orangutans in their natural habitat.
• Stroll around Medan’s Maimun Palace and the Grand Mosque for historical insight.
• Surf at Sorake Beach on Nias Island — one of the best surf spots in Indonesia.
• Experience traditional Batak dance and music performances in Tomok or Simanindo.
• Visit local coffee plantations in Berastagi and try authentic Sumatran Arabica coffee.