Teeming with wildlife, a trekking haven, a larger than life lake, and rad waves are just a few ways to describe spectacular Sumatra. Sumatra is the largest island of the Indonesian archipelago, and the 6th largest in the entire world. It’s is monster of an island to tackle, and considering the size of the country as a whole, you shouldn’t be rushing through. Perhaps plan accordingly and dedicate your holiday to this island alone if you really want to experience all is has to offer. Here are just a few of the major attractions that this wonderful island offers.
Kerinci Seblat National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest national parks in the country. It’s 14,000 square miles, and it holds many species and natural sites. A volcano named Mount Kerinci is one of the features of this park and it’s the tallest mountain on the island soaring nearly 4,000 meters in the sky. This happens to also be the highest active volcano of Sumatra. To reach the summit, it’s often a 2 day 1 night trip.
Although rare, this is your opportunity to attempt to get a glimpse of the rare Sumatran Tiger. Elephants, leopards, sun bears, and tapirs are other more likely sightings while exploring here. After your hours of trekking, a dip in the nearby hot springs might be a good idea.
Bukit Lawang
This spot is a gorgeous scattered little village alongside a river and the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park. Here is where you can hire a guide to take you through the jungle and see the Sumatran orang-outang. They are often easy to spot if you do a days trek and it’s a rewarding experience. Guesthouses are cheap in the area as most of the money is made through trekking. Monkey, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife will also be peeking through the bushes, so keep an eye out.
Lake Toba
Singapore is small, but a lake the size of Singapore? That’s one big lake! Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world and with Samosir Island slapped in the middle, it’s an absolutely beautiful spot to relax and venture around. Waterfalls, interesting Batak houses, history, amazing views, taking a dip in the lake, and simply relaxing are all possibilities. It’s truly an epic spot and definitely a must see while on Sumatra.
Pulau Nias
If you’re a surfer look no further. This is the home to some internationally known surfing competitions and world-class breaks. Sorake Bay being the best known surfing spot on the island located at the southern tip. The nearby Hinako Islands and Asu and Bawa also have some rad waves to ride, and as you wait for the perfect wave (which won’t be for too long) you might see a few turtle swimming beneath your board.
Mentawai Islands
I lied when I said you didn’t have to look any further to surf than at Pulau Nias. The waves at Mentawai Islands are equally as amazing. These are known as some of the best breaks on the island and you can find the perfect wave nearly anywhere here. Surrounding the islands are all different breaks, left, right, and beginner to expert. Post up here and show what you got when you and your board hit the water.
There are more hot spot than just stated here of course, this beauty has too many amazing places to name. There’s certainly more to Indonesia then just Bali, and Sumatra is proof.
