Sumatra

Day 1: Arrival into Medan.

Arrive in Medan and transfer to our hotel. Our adventure begins in Medan, with its Dutch architecture and Asian culture. Tonight we meet as a group for dinner and orientation.

Day 2: Drive to Bukit Lawang

Morning city tour visiting Sultan Deli Palace, Great Mosque, Chinese Temple and Kesawan Area the old center of Medan city. Depart for the 97 km drive to Bukit Lawang in the afternoon, an orangutan rehabilitation reserve. On the way, watch the transformation from urban life to the jungle. Visit rubber and oil-palm plantations before a relaxing evening in Bukit Lawang. Overnight in Bukit Lawang.

Day 3: Bukit Lawang - Orangutan Rehabilitation Reserve

A morning hike of about one hour (uphill) along the bank of the Bohorok river to the canoe station for a ride over to the Reserve to observe the Orangutans in an intimate and natural setting. Following the feeding, we return to our guest house for an optional swim in the river. In the afternoon we will depart for the half-day drive to the mountain town of Brastagi stopping at Sembahe river. Enjoy the evening in the colonial resort nestled between two volcanoes. Overnight in Brastagi.

Day 4: Brastagi - Batak Village

Today we have a trip by minivan and then by foot, travelling from Brastagi to a Batak Karo traditional village at Peceren.. Here we will spend the day exploring the village and learning about the village history and culture from a village historian. In the late afternoon we will return to our hotel in Brastagi for the night.

Day 5: Lake Toba - Samosir Island

An early morning departure from Brastagi to beautiful Lake Toba, the largest lake in Southeast Asia. Formed by a prehistoric volcanic eruption, Lake Toba is one of the highest (900m.) and deepest (450 m.) lakes in the world. Along the way, visit Sipiso-piso waterfall, Rumah Bolon, and the Batak Palace where the last King reigned until 1949. The King’s youngest son will share his tale of historical events as well as some very touching personal stories. Upon arrival at Lake Toba, we will transfer to a ferry boat for the short crossing to Samosir Island where we will spend the next few nights. Overnight in Samosir Island.

Day 6: Lake Toba

A free day to walk or bike around dramatic scenery of Samosir Island, or just relax and enjoy the view looking out upon this magical crater lake. For those interested, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon with a local Batak family in their home. Overnight on Samosir Island.

Day 7: Lake Toba Boat Excursion

Today we have a boat excursion around Samosir Island, the original home of the Batak people. In the morning embark on a journey to visit the Batak Toba traditional village at Tomok and see the old tomb of Sidabutar Kings. We will continue by boat, visiting Ambarita, an old Batak village where we learn about the ancient Batak judicial system. See the stone chair and table where execution took place for the ancient tribal chieftains. In the afternoon experience a Batak Toba traditional dance along with a visit to a local home. Overnight on Samosir Island.

Day 8: Minangkabau Highlands - Padang Sidempuan

A morning departure from Samosir Island by ferry boat, to travel south through the Minangkabau Highlands to the town of Padang Sidempuan via Sibolga for a spectacular view of the Indian ocean and bay of Sibolga. En route we will discover the vast array of agricultural crops grown in this fertile land and visit a traditional market at Balige. Arriving in town in the late afternoon, and if there is time we will visit the incredibly colourful and interesting central market. Overnight in Padang Sidenpuan.

Day 9: Bukittinggi

Today we continue driving south, across the Equator at Bonjol Village, to the delightful town of Bukittinggi. Although this is a long drive, the scenery on the way is absolutely spectacular, providing numerous vistas of rivers winding their way through beautifully terraced mountains. Pass through the tropical forest of Rimba Panti where we will stop to see the resident monkeys. Arrive in the early evening to the charming town of Bukittinggi is nestled between three volcanoes 3,000 ft. above sea level, and is widely known as the cultural and craft center of the Minangkabau people. Overnight in Bukittinggi.

Day 10: Bukittinggi and the Minangkabau culture

Today, we will travel into the Minangkabau countryside and visit a Minangkabau cultural village in nearby Padang Panjang in order to gain insight into this interesting - and ancient - matrilineal society. Overnight in Bukittinggi.

Day 11: Cultural West Sumatra and the Singgalang Walk

A free day to either explore the colorful markets of Bukittinggi or join our favorite hike known as the Singgalang volcano walk. If volcanic activity permits, an optional 13 km walk that takes us from one village to the next as we travel through the beautiful countryside between the smoldering Merapi and Singgalang volcanoes.

If the volcano is active and the hike is not possible the alternative will be to explore local people in daily life as we visit several villages and the markets of Bukittinggi with it’s fascinating antique shops.

Daily life during harvest time is full of activity. With planting of rice, farmers working the fields with water buffalo, relax and emirs yourself with in the beauty of this culture. Overnight in Bukittinggi.

Day 12: Padang Port Siberut Island or Cubadak or Sikuai Island

Travel to the port of Padang where you will have the option to embark on a remote journey to Siberut Island to live with the Mentawai and really experience how basic life is on this island. This is a 2 night stay on a yacht and 1 night in a very basic village stay in an Uma (traditional family house). You will sail from Padang Port to Siberut Port overnight as its about 5 to 6 hours journey depending on weather. Night is not so rough and you should have a great nights sleep to awake in Siberut Island.

The one night in the Uma is very basic with no facilities. There is a thermal matt to sleep on the floor of the long house and facilities are one with nature.

If you would rather relax in a resort setting with a beach then you can choose to take the ferry to Cubadak or Sikuai Island for a 3 night stay with no ElderTreks tour leader, only a resort representative.

Cubadak Island or Sikuai is a tranquil islands that lie between clear lagoon waters and jungle. A great way to relax in peace and quiet after a busy adventure. Enjoy the sun and the ocean air as you lose yourself in paradise.

Overnight on a yacht and village if you are taking the Siberut Island excursion.
Overnight for the next 3 nights on Cubadak or the Sikuai Island resort if you are taking the resort option.

Day 13: Siberut Island

Awake to have a quick shower and jump into your motorized canoe for a 2 hour journey on the river to the village port of Rorogot. Once we arrive porters will take you overnight bag and you will begin your 1.5 to 2 hour hike through the muddy jungle. We will spend tonight on Siberut Island with the Mentawai, living in their home, learning about their beliefs, culture, dance, cuisine and virtually any and all aspects of their existence. Conditions of Siberut are extremely basic and will be muddy, but the experience will remain long after the mud washes off. Their homes are on stiltis, mad of wood with thatched roofs. The Mentawai are a tribal people living a very traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle with strong ‘anamist’ or spirit beliefs. We will be staying in an Uma which is a central home and gathering spot for the surrounding tribal homes. One or more medicine men normally live in an Uma. Activities on the island will include making tribal clothing, preparing sago-the staple food of the Mentawai, hiking, as well as learning about their beliefs, customs and dance while living among them. Overnight on Siberut Island.

Day 14: Siberut Island

Enjoy the morning with the waking village before we embark on our muddy hike back to the village port of Rorogot for our canoe ride to Siberut Port where we will board our yacht for our night journey back to Padang. Tonight have a unique dinner on board our yacht as we sail to Padang. Overnight on Yacht.

Day 15: Departure from island stay to Padang

Today you will be transferred from either island stay you have chosen.

Siberut Island Option - The night before we sail from Siberut to Padang which is approximately 5 to 6 hrs depending on weather. You will then be transferred to the Padang hotel to meet up with the rest of the group for breakfast.

Cubadak or Sikuai Island Option - From the resort you will be ferried to Padang port and transferred to the Padang hotel to meet up with the rest of the group for breakfast.

After breakfast set off to explore Old Padang on a city tour and visit the spice region as well as the traditional markets. Our farewell dinner will be complemented with a Minangkabau performance. Overnight in Padang.

Day 16: Departure Padang

Depart Padang for you international flight or to connect to Java Bali tour.

Day 1: Arrival into Medan.

Arrive in Medan and transfer to our hotel. Our adventure begins in Medan, with its Dutch architecture and Asian culture. Tonight we meet as a group for dinner and orientation.

Day 2: Drive to Bukit Lawang

Morning city tour visiting Sultan Deli Palace, Great Mosque, Chinese Temple and Kesawan Area the old center of Medan city. Depart for the 97 km drive to Bukit Lawang in the afternoon, an orangutan rehabilitation reserve. On the way, watch the transformation from urban life to the jungle. Visit rubber and oil-palm plantations before a relaxing evening in Bukit Lawang. Overnight in Bukit Lawang.

Day 3: Bukit Lawang - Orangutan Rehabilitation Reserve

A morning hike of about one hour (uphill) along the bank of the Bohorok river to the canoe station for a ride over to the Reserve to observe the Orangutans in an intimate and natural setting. Following the feeding, we return to our guest house for an optional swim in the river. In the afternoon we will depart for the half-day drive to the mountain town of Brastagi stopping at Sembahe river. Enjoy the evening in the colonial resort nestled between two volcanoes. Overnight in Brastagi.

Day 4: Brastagi - Batak Village

Today we have a trip by minivan and then by foot, travelling from Brastagi to a Batak Karo traditional village at Peceren.. Here we will spend the day exploring the village and learning about the village history and culture from a village historian. In the late afternoon we will return to our hotel in Brastagi for the night.

Day 5: Lake Toba - Samosir Island

An early morning departure from Brastagi to beautiful Lake Toba, the largest lake in Southeast Asia. Formed by a prehistoric volcanic eruption, Lake Toba is one of the highest (900m.) and deepest (450 m.) lakes in the world. Along the way, visit Sipiso-piso waterfall, Rumah Bolon, and the Batak Palace where the last King reigned until 1949. The King’s youngest son will share his tale of historical events as well as some very touching personal stories. Upon arrival at Lake Toba, we will transfer to a ferry boat for the short crossing to Samosir Island where we will spend the next few nights. Overnight in Samosir Island.

Day 6: Lake Toba

A free day to walk or bike around dramatic scenery of Samosir Island, or just relax and enjoy the view looking out upon this magical crater lake. For those interested, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon with a local Batak family in their home. Overnight on Samosir Island.

Day 7: Lake Toba Boat Excursion

Today we have a boat excursion around Samosir Island, the original home of the Batak people. In the morning embark on a journey to visit the Batak Toba traditional village at Tomok and see the old tomb of Sidabutar Kings. We will continue by boat, visiting Ambarita, an old Batak village where we learn about the ancient Batak judicial system. See the stone chair and table where execution took place for the ancient tribal chieftains. In the afternoon experience a Batak Toba traditional dance along with a visit to a local home. Overnight on Samosir Island.

Day 8: Minangkabau Highlands - Padang Sidempuan

A morning departure from Samosir Island by ferry boat, to travel south through the Minangkabau Highlands to the town of Padang Sidempuan via Sibolga for a spectacular view of the Indian ocean and bay of Sibolga. En route we will discover the vast array of agricultural crops grown in this fertile land and visit a traditional market at Balige. Arriving in town in the late afternoon, and if there is time we will visit the incredibly colourful and interesting central market. Overnight in Padang Sidenpuan.

Day 9: Bukittinggi

Today we continue driving south, across the Equator at Bonjol Village, to the delightful town of Bukittinggi. Although this is a long drive, the scenery on the way is absolutely spectacular, providing numerous vistas of rivers winding their way through beautifully terraced mountains. Pass through the tropical forest of Rimba Panti where we will stop to see the resident monkeys. Arrive in the early evening to the charming town of Bukittinggi is nestled between three volcanoes 3,000 ft. above sea level, and is widely known as the cultural and craft center of the Minangkabau people. Overnight in Bukittinggi.

Day 10: Bukittinggi and the Minangkabau culture

Today, we will travel into the Minangkabau countryside and visit a Minangkabau cultural village in nearby Padang Panjang in order to gain insight into this interesting - and ancient - matrilineal society. Overnight in Bukittinggi.

Day 11: Cultural West Sumatra and the Singgalang Walk

A free day to either explore the colorful markets of Bukittinggi or join our favorite hike known as the Singgalang volcano walk. If volcanic activity permits, an optional 13 km walk that takes us from one village to the next as we travel through the beautiful countryside between the smoldering Merapi and Singgalang volcanoes.

If the volcano is active and the hike is not possible the alternative will be to explore local people in daily life as we visit several villages and the markets of Bukittinggi with it’s fascinating antique shops.

Daily life during harvest time is full of activity. With planting of rice, farmers working the fields with water buffalo, relax and emirs yourself with in the beauty of this culture. Tonight will be our full group farewell dinner as tomorrow some of us will be travelling to Siberut for a very unique village experience and others will be relaxing on the beach. Overnight in Bukittinggi.

Day 12: Padang Port Siberut Island or Cubadak or Sikuai Island

Travel to the port of Padang where you will have the option to embark on a remote journey to Siberut Island to live with the Mentawai and really experience how basic life is on this island. This is a 2 night stay on a yacht and 1 night in a very basic village stay in an Uma (traditional family house). You will sail from Padang Port to Siberut Port overnight as its about 5 to 6 hours journey depending on weather. Night is not so rough and you should have a great nights sleep to awake in Siberut Island.

The one night in the Uma is very basic with no facilities. There is a thermal matt to sleep on the floor of the long house and facilities are one with nature.

If you would rather relax in a resort setting with a beach then you can choose to take the ferry to Cubadak or Sikuai Island for a 3 night stay with no ElderTreks tour leader, only a resort representative.

Cubadak Island or Sikuai is a tranquil islands that lie between clear lagoon waters and jungle. A great way to relax in peace and quiet after a busy adventure. Enjoy the sun and the ocean air as you lose yourself in paradise.

Overnight on a yacht and village if you are taking the Siberut Island excursion.
Overnight for the next 3 nights on Cubadak or the Sikuai Island resort if you are taking the resort option.

Day 13: Siberut Island

Awake to have a quick shower and jump into your motorized canoe for a 2 hour journey on the river to the village port of Rorogot. Once we arrive porters will take you overnight bag and you will begin your 1.5 to 2 hour hike through the muddy jungle. We will spend tonight on Siberut Island with the Mentawai, living in their home, learning about their beliefs, culture, dance, cuisine and virtually any and all aspects of their existence. Conditions of Siberut are extremely basic and will be muddy, but the experience will remain long after the mud washes off. Their homes are on stiltis, mad of wood with thatched roofs. The Mentawai are a tribal people living a very traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle with strong ‘anamist’ or spirit beliefs. We will be staying in an Uma which is a central home and gathering spot for the surrounding tribal homes. One or more medicine men normally live in an Uma. Activities on the island will include making tribal clothing, preparing sago-the staple food of the Mentawai, hiking, as well as learning about their beliefs, customs and dance while living among them. Overnight on Siberut Island.

Day 14: Siberut Island

Enjoy the morning with the waking village before we embark on our muddy hike back to the village port of Rorogot for our canoe ride to Siberut Port where we will board our yacht for our night journey back to Padang. Tonight have a unique farewell dinner on board our yacht as we sail to Padang. Overnight on Yacht.

Day 15: Departure from Island Stay

Today you will be transferred from either island stay you have chosen.

Siberut Island Option - The night before we sail from Siberut to Padang which is approximately 5 to 6 hrs depending on weather. If you are continuing on to Java Bali with us then you will be transferred to our day hotel for breakfast and rest before our noon flight. If you are traveling home we suggest you book an afternoon flight as to avoid any delays on arrival to Padang port.

Cubadak or Sikuai Island Option - From the resort you will be ferried to Padang port and transferred to the airport which is approximate 2 hour transfer from Cubadak island. You then will be able to connect to your flight to Yoygakarta, Java to start the Java/Bali portion of our adventure, or your flight home.