Understand

Lake Toba, located in North Sumatra, is not just any ordinary lake. It is an immense volcanic lake, covering an area of 1,707km, which is a thousand times bigger than Singapore! What makes Lake Toba even more fascinating is that it was formed by a gigantic volcanic eruption around 70,000 years ago. This eruption may have even caused a previous ice age and the largest human population bottleneck in history. Despite its historical significance, Lake Toba is still facing environmental threats, as some big international companies continue to operate in the area. But don't let that deter you from visiting. The island in the middle of Lake Toba, known as Pulau Samosir, is a cultural center for the Batak tribe. The Batak culture is rich in rituals and parties, and you can immerse yourself in their traditions by visiting, eating their food, and even contributing to their weddings or funerals through dancing. Lake Toba was once a popular destination and still remains a firm fixture on the Banana Pancake Trail. And if you're looking for a laid-back place to chill out after some jungle trekking, Tuktuk is the perfect spot. Lake Toba has so much more to offer beyond Tuktuk. The area is divided into seven regencies, each with its own unique attractions. From the volcanoes of Sinabung and Sibayak in Karo regency to the hotsprings and international airport in Tapanuli Utara regency, there's something for everyone. And if you're an eco-tourism enthusiast, you'll be pleased to know that the government is working towards getting Lake Toba certified as a UNESCO Geopark. So why wait? Visit Lake Toba and delve into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that this incredible destination has to offer.

Get in

When planning a trip to Lake Toba, most visitors start their journey by flying into Medan Kuala Namu International Airport. From there, you have a couple of options to reach Parapat, the charming town by the lake. You can either hop in a car and enjoy a scenic 4-hour drive from Medan or take a public bus, which will take you there in about 4 to 6 hours. Exciting news! There is now a new international airport in Siborongborong called Silangit (DTB). This airport is nestled on the east side of Toba Lake, offering breathtaking views of the stunning landscape. It only takes a quick 30-minute flight to reach the east side of Toba Lake or the lively city of Balige. Currently, there are two flights to Medan and five flights to Jakarta daily. Additionally, there are five weekly flights to Kuala Lumpur with Air Asia, providing convenient options for your travel plans.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing