Sumatra adventures
Orangutans, volcanoes, Mentawai surf, Lake Toba, and the wild side of Indonesia.
North Sumatra: Orangutans
Bukit Lawang (jungle trekking, see semi-wild orangutans) is the classic. Gunung Leuser NP is the broader park. 3-day treks available.
Lake Toba
Largest volcanic lake in the world. Samosir Island in the middle. Cool climate, Batak culture, relaxing. 4-5 days recommended.
West Sumatra: Minang culture
Bukittinggi, Padang, and the Minangkabau heartland. Architecture, food (rendang!), and the culture of the matrilineal Minang people. Often combined with the Mentawai surf.
South Sumatra: Way Kambas
Sumatran rhino sanctuary, elephant conservation, wild tigers (if you're lucky). Less touristy than Borneo alternatives.
Getting around Sumatra
Internal flights (Medan-Padang, etc.) are fastest. Trans-Sumatran highway is paved but slow. Buses are reliable. Or hire a driver for full flexibility.
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