Lake Toba

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
16/08/2025
Scenic aerial view of Lake Toba's lush green coastline in North Sumatra, Indonesia.
Afif Ramdhasuma, Pexels

Lake Toba, a vast supervolcanic lake nestled in North Sumatra, offers a serene escape amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, with Samosir Island at its heart. It presents a unique blend of tranquil beauty and rich Batak cultural experiences.

Tuktuk village on Samosir Island serves as the main hub for visitors, featuring a variety of guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants where you can easily connect with other travelers. Establishments like Roy's Pub are known for live music and a welcoming atmosphere, offering opportunities to socialize and enjoy local entertainment.

Top 5 Things to do in Lake Toba

Activities in Lake Toba primarily revolve around exploring the unique Batak culture, enjoying the vast volcanic lake through various water sports, and embarking on scenic hikes to viewpoints and waterfalls.

1. Explore Batak Villages and Cultural Sites on Samosir Island

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Batak people by visiting traditional villages such as Ambarita, Tomok, and Simanindo. At Ambarita, see the ancient stone chairs of King Siallagan, used for tribal meetings and judicial processes. In Tomok, visit the tomb of King Sidabutar and witness a traditional Sigale-gale puppet dance, a fascinating cultural performance. The Huta Bolon Museum in Simanindo provides deeper insight into Batak history and artifacts, often featuring live dance performances. Engaging with these sites offers a profound connection to the local culture and history.

Cost: Entrance fees for cultural sites like the stone chairs or museums are typically low, ranging from IDR 10,000 to IDR 20,000 (approximately $0.65 - $1.30 USD) per person.

Transport: These villages are located on Samosir Island. Many are within easy reach of Tuktuk, the main tourist hub. You can rent a scooter to explore the island (IDR 50,000 - IDR 150,000 per day / approximately $3.25 - $10 USD) or hire a private car with a driver for a day tour (around IDR 500,000 - IDR 700,000 / approximately $33 - $47 USD).

2. Scooter Ride Around Samosir Island

Embark on an adventurous scooter ride along the ring road of Samosir Island. This offers an opportunity to discover hidden villages, enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and observe local life at your own pace. The main roads are generally in good condition, and the scenery is consistently breathtaking, making it an ideal way to explore the island's diverse landscapes.

Cost: Scooter rental typically costs IDR 50,000 to IDR 150,000 (approximately $3.25 - $10 USD) per day, depending on the season and negotiation.

Transport: Scooters can be rented directly from most accommodations in Tuktuk or other rental shops. The entire island can be circumnavigated in a day, but taking more time allows for stops and exploration.

3. Hike Mount Pusuk Buhit

Undertake a hike up Mount Pusuk Buhit, considered a sacred mountain by the Batak people and believed to be their origin point. The trek offers challenging terrain but rewards hikers with sweeping panoramic views of Lake Toba, Samosir Island, and the surrounding valleys and rice paddies. It is a significant experience for those interested in both natural beauty and cultural legends.

Cost: A private hiking tour from Samosir Island, including private transportation, a guide, water, and a picnic lunch, can cost from $88 to $135 USD per person.

Transport: Pusuk Buhit is accessible from Samosir Island. Tours often include pickup and drop-off from hotels on the island. While some parts of the ascent can be done by motorbike, a significant portion requires hiking.

4. Visit Sipiso-piso Waterfall

Witness the impressive Sipiso-piso Waterfall, one of Indonesia's tallest waterfalls, plunging approximately 120 meters into a deep gorge. A dedicated viewpoint provides a grand perspective of the waterfall with Lake Toba in the distance, ideal for photography. For those seeking more activity, a steep path leads down to the base of the waterfall, offering close-up views and a chance to feel its mist.

Cost: There might be a small entrance fee to the viewpoint area. Tour costs vary if combined with other mainland attractions. A private day tour from Medan including Sipiso Piso can be booked.

Transport: Sipiso-piso Waterfall is located on the mainland, about a 2-hour drive from Samosir Island's ferry ports. It is often visited as a stop when traveling to or from Berastagi or Medan. You can hire a private car or join a tour from Lake Toba (requiring a ferry crossing from Samosir to Parapat first).

5. Enjoy Watersports and Swimming in Lake Toba

Take advantage of the vast, calm waters of Lake Toba by engaging in various watersports or simply swimming. Options include kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), providing a peaceful way to explore the lake's edges, or for more excitement, jet skiing and banana boat rides are available. The cooler temperatures compared to other parts of Indonesia make lake activities pleasant.

Cost: Kayak rental can be around IDR 100,000 (approximately $6.50 USD) for a full day. Jet skiing can cost around IDR 400,000 (approximately $25 USD) for an hour for a 'scooter' jetski. Prices for other activities like banana boats may vary.

Transport: Many accommodations in Tuktuk offer direct lake access and rentals for kayaks or SUPs. Jet skis and speedboats can be arranged through your accommodation or operators near your lodging.

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