Travel Guide of Lake Toba in Indonesia by Influencers and Travelers
Lake Toba is a large natural lake in North Sumatra, Indonesia, occupying the caldera of a supervolcano. The lake is located in the middle of the northern part of the island of Sumatra, with a surface elevation of about 900 metres, the lake stretches from 2.88°N 98.52°E to 2.35°N 99.1°E.
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Pictures and Stories of Lake Toba from Influencers
8 pictures of Lake Toba from supardi sinaga, Milala Wisata, Fadli Azhari and other travelers
- tell stories with nature. ...click to read more
- Experienced by @supardi sinaga | ©Unsplash
- beautifull sunrise of lake toba from tele view point ...click to read more
- Experienced by @supardi sinaga | ©Unsplash
- Lelaki memotret pemandangan danau toba ...click to read more
- Experienced by @Muhammad Syafi Al - adam | ©Unsplash
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Reviews of Lake Toba from Travel Influencers
-Lake Toba is a must-visit destination in Sumatra for its stunning volcanic views
Travelers' favorite tours and activities:
- Private Tour: Karo Highlands and Lake Toba from Medan - from $79
- One day tour to explore brastagi High land & lake Toba departure from Medan - from $78
- North Sumatra, Bukit Lawang, Berastagi, Lake Toba 7-Day Tour - from $696
- 4-Day North Sumatra Tour from Medan - from $576
- Medan City Tour 3 Days 2 Nights - from $283
How to visit Lake Toba ?
Why traveling there?
Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world, and a must-visit destination in Indonesia. Surrounded by lush greenery, majestic mountains, and traditional Batak villages, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. The serene atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxation, while the activities around the lake cater to adventure seekers as well.
How to get there?
To reach Lake Toba, you can fly into Kuala Namu International Airport in Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra. From there, you can take a taxi, shared van, or bus to Parapat, which is about a 4-5 hour drive. Once you arrive in Parapat, you'll need to take a ferry to reach the island of Samosir, located within Lake Toba. The ferry ride takes about 30-45 minutes.
What to book in advance?
While it's not necessary to book accommodations and activities far in advance, it's recommended to book your flight and airport transfer ahead of time, as well as accommodations during the peak season (June to August) to ensure availability. If you're interested in specific tours or activities, such as traditional Batak dance performances or guided treks, it's a good idea to book those in advance as well.
What are the costs?
Traveling to Lake Toba is relatively affordable, with a range of options for accommodations, dining, and activities to suit different budgets. Accommodation prices range from $10-15 per night for budget guesthouses to $50-100 for mid-range hotels and up to $200+ for luxury resorts. Meals at local restaurants typically cost between $1-5, while transportation around the island can be arranged for as little as $10-20 per day.
What are the best things to do?
Some of the top activities at Lake Toba include:
- Exploring the traditional Batak villages, such as Tomok and Ambarita, where you can learn about the local culture and history.
- Swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the lake's clear waters.
- Trekking through the lush forests and hills surrounding the lake, with the possibility of spotting wildlife.
- Visiting the natural hot springs in Pangururan for a relaxing soak.
- Renting a scooter or bicycle to explore the island at your own pace.
Where to eat?
1. Jenny's Restaurant: Located in Tuk Tuk, this popular eatery offers a mix of Indonesian, Western, and local Batak dishes, as well as stunning lake views.
2. Roma Pizza: For a taste of Italian cuisine, head to Roma Pizza in Tuk Tuk, where you can enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes.
3. Bagus Bay Homestay Restaurant: This lakeside restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Batak dishes, with a beautiful setting and live music.
Where to stay?
1. Toba Village Inn: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and beautiful lake views.
2. Tabo Cottages: A popular choice for budget travelers, these simple yet cozy cottages are set in a lush garden and offer a laid-back atmosphere.
3. Carolina Hotel: For a more luxurious experience, consider the Carolina Hotel, which features well-appointed rooms and a private beach.
Off the beaten path
For a truly unique experience, visit the remote village of Sipolha, located on the eastern shores of Lake Toba. The village is accessible only by boat or on foot and is home to a small community of Batak people, who still maintain their traditional way of life. Here, you can immerse yourself in their culture, learn about their customs, and even spend the night in a traditional Batak house. Participate in daily activities such as fishing, farming, or weaving, and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating culture.
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Map of Lake Toba
View Lake Toba on a map with the the closest popular places nearby
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More Travel spots to explore around Lake Toba
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Discover more travel spots to explore around Lake Toba
🏞️ Lake spots 🌲 Forest spots ⛰️ Highland spots 🌲 Ecoregion spots 🏞️ Reservoir spots 🏞️ River spots ⛰️ Hill spotsLearn More about Lake Toba
Lake Toba is the largest lake in Indonesia and the largest crater lake in the world. The lake is located in the caldera of a supervolcano that erupted around 75,000 years ago. The lake has an area of 1,145 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 505 meters.
Where to Stay near Lake Toba
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Popular destinations near Lake Toba
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