Sumatra: An Untouched Paradise Full of Adventure

Unlike the neighboring islands of Bali or Java, Sumatra does not attract many travelers and although this is exactly what attracted me to the island, it is difficult to understand why. It is the largest island in Indonesia and has a lot to offer; jungles, orangutangs, elephants, volcanoes, waterfalls, ... In short: an unspoiled paradise full of adventures!

Gunung Leuser National Park

Home to the orangutang and the Sumatran tiger, Gunung Leuser National Park is a wonderful place for a jungle trek. Don't be disappointed that you will most likely not see any tigers, as my guide told me that no one has ever seen one and it would probably be the last thing you would ever see yourself on.

Leaving Bukit Lawang early, it didn't last long before we were surrounded by orangutangs and Thomas Leaf monkeys climbing trees. It was amazing to see how well the guide knew how to behave around each orang tang, since everyone has their own personality traits and some like stealing bags!

Tangkahan

This peaceful village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park really stole my heart. There is a lot to do here; washing elephants, river tubing, swimming in waterfalls, ... all this surrounded by the beautiful tropical forest. A perfect place to connect with nature.

Although Indonesians are particularly friendly people in general, this is without a doubt the place where you will meet the kindest people ever. Always ready to help and eager to tell you about their culture, the guides will do everything to make your stay truly wonderful.

Also, elephants are wonderful animals and I want to see them happy. I'm not an expert but I think I saw happy elephant faces in Tangkahan.

Sibayak volcano, Berastagi

Mount Sibayak is one of Indonesia's active volcanoes and the view that goes up to its crater is amazing. As you climb to the top, the sulfur smell gets stronger and there are steaming vents with yellow rocks all around.

Oddly, while I was applying sunscreen, my guide asked me why I was covering myself with this white cream all the time. First he looked at me in shock, then he started laughing uncontrollably when I said I would turn red if I didn't.

Samosir Island, Lake Toba

An island on an island! Here you will not only find wonderful landscapes, Samosir is also the home of the Batak people, an ancient tribe who will gladly teach you about their culture. With their traditional dances, their colorful complexes and their splendid houses decorated with geometric designs, their culture will amaze you.

Banda Aceh

At first I was a little hesitant to put Banda Aceh on my list of favorite destinations in Sumatra, but the cultural shock that I experienced there and the tsunami that remained in the cities turned my visit into an unforgettable experience. One day in this city, as a transit point for Pulau Weh, it was enough!

Being governed by the strict Sharia law, this destination is not for everyone but if you decide to go there, it will surely leave you speechless.

Banda Aceh was hit very seriously by the tsunami in 2004 and the impact it has had on the city is still visible. You will find the unusual view of boats in the middle of the city or on top of a house, left intact as a memorial here. The Tsunami Museum offers an insight into the terrifying experience people experience and is well worth visiting.

Pulau Weh

This is a small island located just above Sumatra, easily accessible from Banda Aceh by ferry. With its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, Pulau Weh is a paradise for snorkeling, diving or relaxing. There are so many exotic fishes here that I felt like I was floating in a natural aquarium!