Nature

Berastagi, a town about two hours from Medan, was established by Dutch colonists. In that town lies Gundaling Hill, a spot to enjoy the view of Berastagi from above. Next stop, Sipiso-piso Waterfall. Standing at 120 metres tall, it’s one of the highest waterfalls in Indonesia.

Despite its status as an active volcano, Mount Sinabung offers plenty of outdoor activities, like strawberry picking and visits to coffee plantations. If you favour tea, Bah Butong Tea Gardens in Sidamanik is a beautiful place to get to know how tea is grown.

Of course, no one visiting Medan should miss Lake Toba. The lake was created by the largest volcanic eruption in the past two million years. For a great view of the lake, spend a night at Taman Simalem Resort. Another place for outstanding vistas is Bukit Indah Simarjarunjung in Simalungun District. It’s set up with various spots such as tree houses and benches for sitting back and taking a few selfies.

Tangkahan, a small village in the middle of North Sumatra’s tropical forests, maintains its natural riverside setting and lets elephants roam wild. Seeing elephants is a highlight, as is crossing a thin, wooden bridge suspended above a river.

To see rare wildlife, visit Mount Leuser National Park. You’ll be following in the footsteps of actor and conservation activist Leonardo DiCaprio, who recently visited the Unesco-listed park to see Sumatran orangutans. Other animals that roam these grounds include Sumatran tigers and Sumatran rhinos.