3-Days Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland From Medan City or From Kuala Namu airport

Discover the Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage of North Sumatra in 3 Days

This 3-day Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into what makes this part of Indonesia so special. Starting from Medan or Kuala Namu Airport, you’ll explore the magnificent Lake Toba, visit the traditional Batak villages, gaze at active volcanoes in Brastagi, and enjoy panoramic views from Taman Simalem Resort. Priced at around $371.13 per person, this guided journey takes the worry out of logistics — no need to rent a car or worry about directions. Instead, you’ll relax and soak in the scenery, the culture, and the local flavors.

What we love about this tour is how it combines authentic cultural experiences like traditional Batak dance performances and visits to historic sites with breathtaking natural sights such as Sipiso Piso waterfall and Lake Toba’s panoramic vistas. The convenience of private transportation and a fixed itinerary makes it accessible for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of self-driving. Plus, the two-night stay at the Waterfall Lodge Hotel and Taman Simalem Resort** provides comfortable bases to unwind after busy days.

One thing to consider is the long driving distances—around 4 to 5 hours to reach Taman Simalem Resort from Medan—so if you’re sensitive to lengthy bus rides, this might feel a bit tiring. Also, this tour is quite packed, leaving limited time at each stop, which may not satisfy travelers seeking a slow, in-depth exploration of each site.

This tour is ideal for those who want a rundown of North Sumatra’s highlights, especially first-timers or travelers with limited time who want to experience both nature and culture in one trip. It’s also perfect if you prefer guided comfort over the hassle of figuring out transportation and schedules on your own.

Key Points

• Comfortable Private Transport: Air-conditioned, private vehicle ensures smooth travel between sites.
• Diverse Highlights: Combines scenic views, cultural performances, and local markets.
• Convenience: All logistics, including hotel stays and entrance fees, are organized and included.
• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Batak dance shows, traditional houses, and local markets offer genuine insight into the region.
• Natural Wonders: Sipiso Piso waterfall and Lake Toba vistas are the tour’s scenic stars.
• Challenging Lengths: Long drive times mean you should be prepared for hours in transit.

In-Depth Review of the 3-Day Lake Toba & Brastagi Highland Tour

Day 1: From Medan to Taman Simalem Resort

Your adventure kicks off around 9:00 am, with a pickup at your hotel or airport. From there, expect a roughly four to five-hour drive through lush landscapes and rolling hills to reach Taman Simalem Resort in Tongging. The scenic drive alone is worth noting, as it offers glimpses of North Sumatra’s verdant terrain.

Once you arrive at Taman Simalem, the welcoming staff will help you check into your room, after which you’re free to relax and enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Toba from the resort grounds. The setting here is perfect for unwinding after the journey, and the admission ticket included means you can explore the resort’s surroundings at your leisure.

The highlight here? The stunning natural scenery. From the hotel grounds, you get a sense of the vast, calm waters of Lake Toba stretching out below, framed by distant mountains and lush forests. It’s a gentle way to acclimate to the region’s tranquil vibe.

Day 2: Exploring Samosir Island and Batak Culture

The real heart of the trip begins early on day two. At 6:30 am, you’ll be picked up to head toward Tigaras Port, where a ferry will whisk you across Lake Toba to Samosir Island. This 45-minute scenic boat ride is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the lake’s vast expanse—one of Southeast Asia’s largest crater lakes.

Your first stop on Samosir is the Huta Bolon Simanindo Batak Museum for a traditional dance performance. Here, the dancers perform a lively show representing Batak rituals, including the buffalo slaughtering ceremonies (though no buffaloes are harmed during the shows). The display provides a fascinating window into Batak traditions and beliefs. As one reviewer notes, “The performance traverses through 11 different phases associated with buffalo slaughter,” which is both educational and entertaining.

Next, you’ll visit Tuktuk Siadong, a quaint village perched on the edge of the lake. You’ll have about an hour to stroll, enjoy the views, and try local Batak and Western-style pastries like Tabo Cottages cake. The village’s relaxed vibe and lakeside cafes make for a pleasant break.

The King Siallagan’s Stone Chair is an intriguing site — a small, historic site where Batak leaders used the “simarahon” (tribal trial) to judge criminals, reflecting a society that balanced justice with tradition. Some travelers might find it a bit small or underwhelming if they’re expecting a large museum, but it offers insight into Batak legal customs.

Your final stop on Samosir is Tomok Village, a lively arts and crafts market. Here, you can browse and buy traditional Batak textiles, wood carvings, and souvenirs. It’s a perfect spot to pick up unique keepsakes and understand local craftsmanship.

The day concludes with a return ferry trip and transfer back to the resort, giving you a full day immersed in Samosir’s culture, scenery, and local life.

Day 3: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Highland Charm

Your last day begins with a visit to Sipiso Piso Waterfall, a striking cascade plunging into Lake Toba. The viewing platform offers perspectives of the crater lake’s northern edge—truly a picture-perfect spot. The walk from the parking area takes around 30 minutes, but the views are well worth it, according to reviews praising the waterfall’s grandeur.

Next, you’ll head to Brastagi Highland, a cool mountain retreat where two active volcanoes — Sibayak and Sinabung — dominate the skyline. The region has long been a favored escape from the heat, and the colorful fruit market is a lively showcase of local produce. Expect to see passionfruit, oranges, and flowers, all thriving in the volcanic soil.

After lunch, a trip to Lingga Village reveals traditional Karo Lingga houses — called Djambur — where residents still live much as their ancestors did. You’ll get a close look inside a traditional house, see cattle grazing underneath, and learn about their daily life. It’s a genuine peek at regional customs that’s often overlooked in more commercial tours.

Your final stop is Lumbini Natural Park, perched on a hilltop, featuring a stunning pagoda and peaceful gardens. This site, often compared with famous architectural masterpieces like Borobudur, offers a tranquil place to reflect and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Practicalities and Value

The tour’s price of $371.13 includes private transportation, a guide, hotel stays, breakfast, and entrance fees, making it a fair deal for the convenience and variety packed into three days. The hotel stays in a Waterfall Lodge Hotel at Taman Simalem Resort and the scenic Taman Simalem Resort itself are comfortable bases that provide a restful retreat after active days.

While the long drives — especially on Day 1 — are unavoidable given the distances, they are generally well-managed and scenic. The driver and guide are described as friendly and professional, which enhances the overall experience.

One review mentioned that the tour is well-organized and that the guide was English-speaking, helping make the cultural and natural sites more accessible. The inclusion of local performances and markets adds authenticity that’s often missing from more commercialized tours.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see a broad spectrum of North Sumatra’s highlights in a short time. If you enjoy a mix of scenery, culture, and local life, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also good for travelers who prefer guided tours with all logistics handled, freeing you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than planning every detail.

However, those seeking a more relaxed or in-depth experience at each site might find the schedule a bit tight, given the long drives and packed itinerary. If you’re looking for a slow, contemplative journey rather than a whirlwind snapshot, this might not be your best option.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to see the best of North Sumatra in just three days, this tour offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to do so. The combination of stunning natural wonders, like Lake Toba and Sipiso Piso, with rich cultural experiences such as Batak dance performances and traditional houses, makes it a memorable trip for those interested in Indonesia’s diverse heritage.

While the long drives and busy schedule might be tiring for some, the value for money and the quality of the included activities and accommodations make this an attractive option for most travelers wanting a quick, authentic taste of the region.

If you’re looking for an introduction to Batak culture, stunning landscapes, and volcanic scenery without the stress of planning, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, you’ll have private air-conditioned transport for all three days, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey between sites.

How long is the drive on Day 1?
It takes roughly 4 hours from Kuala Namu International Airport or about 5 hours from Medan city to reach Taman Simalem Resort.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance tickets, such as to Taman Simalem Resort, Huta Bolon Batak Museum, Tomok Market, Sipiso Piso Waterfall, and Lumbini Park, are included in the price.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour for your group, so modifications can be discussed, but it follows a fixed itinerary.

What about food?
Breakfasts are included, but lunches and dinners are not—giving you the flexibility to explore local eateries or enjoy hotel meals.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it’s generally suitable, be aware of the long driving distances and some walking involved. It’s best for those comfortable with moderate travel and walking.

This tour offers a solid mix of scenery, culture, and convenience. It’s perfect if you want a taste of North Sumatra’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail. Just pack your camera and sense of adventure.