Discover Sumatra

21/11/2024

Here are a few etiquette tips to help you blend in and show respect to local culture while visiting Sumatra.

Why? In Sumatra, respect is at the heart of every interaction. Did you know that using your right hand for greetings and eating is a sign of politeness? Or that a simple gesture, like taking off your shoes at the door before stepping in, opens the door to genuine hospitality?

As you explore, you’ll find that even small acts—like greeting with a smile and keeping your voice low in public—can speak volumes. These thoughtful actions show your respect for the local customs, making your travels all the more rewarding.

Embrace these etiquette tips, and you’ll not only enhance your travel experience but also leave a positive impression on those around you!

💬 Share your thoughts or any etiquette tips you’re excited to adapt in the comments below!

06/11/2024

How to stay connected during your stay in Sumatra 🌴📱

A local SIM card is your best bet for reliable internet in Sumatra. Free Wi-Fi isn’t always dependable, and with a local SIM, you get affordable data, stable connections, and no roaming fees.

💬Comment “SIM” for a link to our full guide sent via DM.

Here’s a quick guide to using a SIM card in Sumatra 👇🏻

📲 How It Works: Prepaid SIM cards in Indonesia are simple and flexible. Just buy one, register in-store, and start using it! Top up anytime at convenience stores or online when you need more data.

📲 Where to Buy: Pick up a SIM card at Grapari stores, local mobile shops, or shopping malls. Most places offer easy setup!

📲 Best Provider: For the best coverage, especially if you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, we recommend Telkomsel.

📲 Activation Process: Register with your passport at the store, insert the SIM, and select your prepaid plan—quick and easy!

📲 Top-Up: Recharge anytime at convenience stores or through the Telkomsel app (helpful if you’re using a lot of data).

📲 Alternative eSIM Option: For a fast setup, try Airalo’s eSIM option. Use code CHRIST00107 for a $3 discount.

Traveling to Sumatra soon? Make your trip smoother by getting a local SIM! 💬Comment “SIM” for a link to our full guide sent via DM.


*Note: The image above was created with AI.

24/10/2024

How to find the perfect itinerary for Sumatra?

Did you know that if you laid Sumatra across Europe, it would stretch from the UK to Greece? 😲 That’s a LOT of ground to cover! So we totally understand if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of planning your Sumatra trip, especially if it’s your first time on our favorite Indonesian Island.

But no worries, we’ve got your back! Here are some helpful tips to create the ideal Sumatra itinerary based on your travel style, time frame, and the kind of experiences you love.

1️⃣ When are you travelling?

Sumatra is beautiful year-round, but the dry season (April to October) is great for beaches, while the rainy season (November to March) offers lush green jungles with fewer tourists!

2️⃣ How much time do you have?

🌿 Up to 4 days? Stick to one spot, like a jungle trek in Bukit Lawang or a beach escape to Pulau Weh.
🌿 5-6 days? Mix wildlife and culture with stops like Medan, Bukit Lawang, and Berastagi.
🌿 7-12 days or more? Explore the full beauty of Sumatra! Combine jungle, beaches, and cultural spots for a complete adventure.

3️⃣ What do you like?

Each destination offers something unique, so mix and match based on your preferences. Whether it’s hiking, surfing, or cultural exploration – Sumatra has it all.

4️⃣ Don’t underestimate travel times!

One thing many travelers don’t realize is how long it takes to get around Sumatra. The roads are often winding and mountainous, so even short distances can take a while. For example, Medan to Bukit Lawang is only 90 km but takes around 4 hours. So if you want to visit multiple places, make sure to plan accordingly.

🗺️ If you don’t want to worry about your itinerary, let us do the planning. Simply tell us your budget, duration of your stay and what you’re looking after – we’re happy to customize the perfect tour for you! Get in touch through Instagram @‌discoversumatra and let’s make your Sumatra dream trip come true!

16/10/2024

Get ready for one of the most captivating experiences Sumatra has to offer—canyoning!

Picture yourself descending roaring waterfalls, jumping into crystal-clear natural pools, and navigating through the rugged beauty of hidden canyons, all while being completely surrounded by the picturesque wilderness of Sumatra.

This is no ordinary tour—it’s perfect for anyone looking for a unique outdoor adventure. It’s all about embracing the beauty of the island, creating unforgettable memories, and having a blast along the way.

Ready to take the plunge? Book your canyoning tour with us and dive into nature’s playground!

02/10/2024

Savor the taste of Sumatra with every mouthful of Mie Goreng, a local favorite that brings together the island's freshest ingredients and boldest flavors 🍜✨

But why stop there? Imagine wandering through bustling markets, dining with locals and discovering hidden gems where each meal is a true taste of Sumatra's rich culture.

On tours with Discover Sumatra, you’re not just eating—you’re experiencing the heart and soul of this vibrant island through its incredible food.

Depending on the chosen tour, your meals can be included in your package – if not, our guides will provide you with the best tips on where to find the best warungs, restaurants & more.

Ready to eat like a local? Book your tour today and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more!

18/09/2024

The 7-day tour: Sumatra Highlights 🛣️🌴

Adventure awaits! 🦧 Trek through lush jungles to spot orangutans, hike a volcano and relax by the stunning Lake Toba. From vibrant wildlife to local culture, every day is a new discovery.

Ready for the ultimate nature escape? Then this customizable tour is perfect for you.

This is our recommended itinerary, which we will gladly adapt to your wishes and ideas:

🌴 Day 1: Arrival in Medan, transfer to Bukit Lawang.
🌴 Day 2: Jungle trekking to see orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park.
🌴 Day 3: Continue jungle trekking for 1/2 day then tubing back to Bukit Lawang. Afternoon free for relaxation in the village.
🌴 Day 4: Transfer to Berastagi, a local mountain town.
🌴 Day 5: Hike Mount Sibayak volcano and indulge in the hot springs afterwards.
🌴 Day 6: Visit Lake Toba and explore Samosir Island.
🌴 Day 7: Return to Medan and departure.

✅ Included: Private transport, local guides, 7 nights accommodation incl. breakfast, all meals during the 2-day trek, volcano hike in Berastagi, village tour in Lake Toba

For more information on this tour visit our website www.discover-sumatra.com through the link in our bio.

📩 If you have any questions or want to book your trip with us, send us a PM @‌discoversumatra. We’re looking forward to helping you have the best adventure.

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22/07/2024

We are fully booked 😍😵‍💫

We can still organise a jungle trek in Bukit Lawang on certain dates. Feel free to contact us, if you are interested in that. For package tours we are full booked.

17/07/2024

Travel Guide: Mentawai Islands🐠🌴☀️

Nestled off the Western coast of Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands are a paradise waiting to be explored. Renowned for their stunning natural beauty 🏝️, rich cultural heritage 🏮, and world-class surf spots 🏄🏻, these islands offer an escape from the ordinary. Whether you are an adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil getaway 🥰, the Mentawai Islands have something to offer everyone. Read our ultimate Travel Guide to the Mentawai Islands on our blog.

https://www.discover-sumatra.com/travel-guide-mentawai-islands/

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Hi, we are Discover Sumatra. We specialize in package tours and activities around Sumatra. Wanna come to Sumatra? PM us!

20/06/2024

Travel Guide Banda Aceh

Welcome to Banda Aceh, a city on the northern tip of Sumatra, where history, culture, and resilience converge. As a tour operator eager to showcase the wonders of Sumatra, let’s embark on a journey through Banda Aceh, a destination with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. While most travellers just pass this city en route to Pulau Weh, we strongly recommend staying here for a night or two to explore the city. In this travel guide we give you everything you need to know about Banda Aceh.

Welcome to Banda Aceh, a city on the northern tip of Sumatra, where history, culture, and resilience converge. Our Travel Guide Banda Aceh...

13/06/2024

Aileen war kürzlich mit uns 2 Tage trekken in Bukit Lawang und hat über ihre Erlebnisse berichtet 😍🦧🌿☀️

https://vonabenteuergeschichten.de/indonesien/sumatra-orang-utan-trekking/

21/05/2024

So many amazing reviews for our tours and treks lately 🤩🙌🏻

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Hi, we are Discover Sumatra. We specialize in package tours and activities around Sumatra. Wanna come to Sumatra? PM us!

23/04/2024

How to find the perfect itinerary for Sumatra?⁠
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We get this question a lot and many travellers are a bit lost upon the the sheer size of the country. We understand that. It can be overwhelming since Sumatra is huge, information is limited and sights are abundand.⁠
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That's why we created a blog post on our website, helping you guide through planning your perfect Sumatra holiday. With places to visit, examples for various holiday lengths and tipps on what to what to keep in mind.⁠
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https://www.discover-sumatra.com/how-to-find-the-perfect-itinerary-for-sumatra/

07/01/2024

Amazing black and white pictures from Lake Toba from 1892-1920. More old pictures can be found on the page Koleksi hitam/putih foto² Sejarah & Budaya - Sumatera Utara

Some old black / white photos of Lake Toba.

04/01/2024

Architecture of Sumatra 🛖🏘🕌🛕

The rich ethnic diversity and historical heritage in Sumatra is reflected in the range of architectural styles for private houses on the island. Depending which part of Sumatra you visit you will find different traditional houses. Some with a u-shaped roof, some on stilts and other charateristics. Here are some examples:

1. Rumoh Aceh, Banda Aceh
2. Karo house, Berastagi
3. Rumah Melayu, throughout Sumatra
4. Rumah Gadang, Minangkabau
5. Batak house, Lake Toba
6. Omo Sebua, Nias