Lake Toba in North Sumatra provides leisure activities for those who enjoy the outdoors. Searching for awesome things to do in Lake Toba, Indonesia? I’ve got your back! As I’ve visited the lake several times, I’m in a very good position to list a few things to do there.
A Complete Tour of Lake Toba
Your tickets are in hand and your luggage is packed. Lake Toba, here you come. Make sure you do all of these on your trip!
#1. Visit Samosir Island
Essentially an island in a crater, Samosir Island is among the top attractions in the region. Given its central location in Lake Toba, Samosir Island should be your first stop. A trip to the lake would not be complete without soaking in the stunning scenery and viewing the waters from the towers above the highlands. Interacting with the locals along the coastline will help you forget your troubles. Enjoy the refreshing lake wind while you explore the countryside.
#2. Explore the Batak Villages
Visiting the Batak villages will enrich you with the local culture and expose you to the popular dishes in the area. You will see the traditional homes and learn about the people’s past. You’ll also be shocked to learn that the Batak tribe were powerful tribal fighters who engaged in cannibalism. Before abandoning the customs in the 19th century, the people also beheaded criminals. Villages in the Batak region, such as Tomok, Simanindo, and Ambarita, have historical traces.
Additionally, visiting the village in Lake Toba, Samosir Island exposes travelers to their way of life. You’ll witness the stunning traditional crafts created by the community members. Moreover, you will have a first-hand experience of the Batak dance and music performances. Therefore, finalize your day with beautiful traditional music as you enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the lake.
Image source: Pinterest
#3. Swim in the Lake
Lake Toba in Sumatra offers serene beaches that are lovely and well-kept. The lake boasts swimming-friendly, crystal-clear waters. Moreover, there are several water activities to try out. All the water activities suit all adventure enthusiasts, regardless of age. I enjoyed jumping in and out of the lake during my last visit.
#4. Eat Pizza and Fish at Jenny’s Restaurant
The restaurant is a well-known seafood establishment in Lake Toba, Sumatra, Indonesia. The eatery also seems to never run out of pizza. I tried several restaurants, but Jenny’s stands out for its delicious pizzas. The seafood in the restaurant is something out of this world. Tantalize your taste buds with the traditional Sumatra cuisines in the restaurant.
#5. Kayak Around the Lake
Kayaking is among the greatest activities available on the lake. Kayaking in the serene waters of the lake is possible at any time of day. Rent a kayak and paddle on the clear waters as you unwind. What makes the kayaking experience worth it is the beautiful views of the volcanic mountains touching the sky above. Other water activities you can try while in the lake include:
- Banana boats
- Jet skies
- Boat tours
#6. Visit Parhallow Viewpoint and Coffee Shop
Image source: Pinterest
Take a short trip to the Parhallow viewpoint to enjoy incredible views from a high location. The viewpoint is 15 minutes away from Tomok village. Find the viewpoint on the east coast of Lake Toba, Samosir Island. Enjoy a beverage at the coffee shop while admiring the stunning views over the lake. While at the viewpoint, you can also order local delicacies such as fried bananas as you blend with nature.
#7. Walk Around Tuktuk Siadong
If you visit Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Tuktuk Siadong is one of the places to consider exploring. Visiting by ferry from Parapat? Even better, as the town is your first stopping point. It offers a wide range of restaurants and places to stay. Explore the town on foot to get to know the friendly locals. Remember to have local cash so you may purchase locally-made souvenirs to cherish your trip.
#8. Visit the Batak Museum
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The village of Simanindo is 30 minutes away from Tuktuk Siadong. In the village, you will find the Batak museum in the home of the Batak King. The museum features antique clothes, weaponry, and sculptures. You only need to fork out around 20,000 IDR to enter the museum. Tourists can enjoy Batak dance performances at an additional cost.
#9. Explore the Sipiso Piso Waterfall
Sipiso Piso is one of the more notable waterfalls in Lake Toba, Sumatra, Indonesia. Find the waterfall near Tonggiang village on the lake’s northern banks. The waterfall is distinct since it originates from an underwater river. It flows from a 120-meter-high rock. Therefore, it is one of Indonesia’s tallest waterfalls.
Enjoy the beautiful views of the waterfall from the high ground. You can also hike down to get breathtaking images. Steps are available throughout the route, making the walk simple. Bring good shoes, as the floor near the waterfall can be slippery. The other waterfall you can enjoy in this area is Situmurun Waterfall, which is reachable via the lake.
#10. Visit King Sidabutar’s Tomb
One of the best things to do in Lake Toba, Indonesia, is explore the rich history of the area. Visit King Sidabutar’s tomb near Desa Wisata Tomok. He ruled Tomok 450 years ago. The tomb is made of heavy stone, and the stone-carved head decorates it. The tomb is a sacred place that requires you to wear a traditional Batak scarf as a sign of respect.
The entrance fee to the tomb is a donation. There is a box to place money as you leave the tomb. Get a local guide to accompany you to the tomb. They have in-depth knowledge of the meanings of all the carvings.
#11. Buy Ulos at Lumban Suhi-Suhi Village
Image source: Pinterest
The Lumban Suhi-Suhi village is famous for making Ulos, which are a source of pride for the local people. The naturally dyed cloths are handwoven by the talented locals. Moreover, the types of Ulos have differing ceremonial significance. They make good souvenirs for loved ones at home. I purchased two from the locals during my last visit to support their craft.
#12. Relax at the Hot Spring
Unwinding in the hot springs next to Lake Toba is the perfect way to cap off a tiring day of exploring. Listen and listen well: the natives believe that the natural hot springs have therapeutic properties. Due to their high temperatures, the hot springs are small swimming pools where you can relax. Take a dip in the warm waters among breathtaking scenery.
If you can tolerate the water’s temperatures, the hot springs are reasonably priced destinations to explore. Even though the sulfuric smell from the springs can be offputting, I particularly enjoyed the Pangururan and Sipoholon hot springs. The views of Lake Toba are spectacular from the hot spring sources.
Conclusion
It is easy to comprehend why Lake Toba in Sumatra is a favorite destination of many. The lake and Samosir Island offer plenty of activities for the people exploring Sumatra. It’s a great place to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, so escaping the everyday routine has never been better. Undoubtedly, everything in Lake Toba will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
