Discover Sumatra

From rainforest treks to stunning sunsets, Sumatra offers adventure differently

Sumatra: Choose the unexpected

Few islands spark the imagination quite like Sumatra. Best known for its unique adventures, Sumatra – the world’s sixth largest island located in Western Indonesia – provides a raw and bold escape for travellers. Steaming volcanoes stand guard over crater lakes. Jungles are filled with orangutans and other wild animals, and stunning beaches complete the scene. This island offers nature in its purest form. It’s a place where the beauty of the earth is visible, and the pace of life moves slowly. In Sumatra, you’ll find unexpected thrills.

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Why visit Sumatra?

Travel to Sumatra and dive into vibrant cultures and untamed landscapes. While Bali offers a well-established tourist scene, Sumatra offers a more authentic experience which is evident in its raw natural and cultural wonders. Start your journey in Medan, Sumatra’s lively gateway, before setting off to explore the best things to do across the island.

Wildlife and nature
Adventure and eco-escapes
Culture & heritage
Culinary experiences

Explore Sumatra’s incredible nature and wildlife. The island offers some of Indonesia’s most unique animals and breathtaking landscapes.

Bukit Lawang

Trek through Bukit Lawang’s jungles, the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park – the best place in Sumatra to see orangutans in the wild. Experience an ethical wildlife adventure with one of the world’s most intelligent and endangered species.

Gunung Sibayak

One of the top nature attractions in Sumatra, this 2,094-metre volcano is known for its steamy sulphur vents and stunning sunrise views.

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Lake Toba

Visit Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake created by a colossal eruption 70,000 years ago. Relax by calm waters, wander through pine-covered hills, and connect with Batak traditions in a truly unique setting.

Sumatra also offers thrilling adventures that will ignite your spirit, with experiences that cater to every adventurous traveller, including:

Volcano treks

Climb Mount Sibayak or Mount Sinabung and feel the ground alive beneath you. Catch a glowing sunrise from the summit and marvel at dramatic volcanic landscapes.

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Zipline in Banto Royo

Soar over beautiful scenery at Taman Bermain Banto Royo. This exciting zipline ride lets you take in fresh air and stunning views, a definite must-try adventure in Sumatra.

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Whitewater rafting

Head to the Binge River in Namu Sira-sira, North Sumatra, and navigate its thrilling rapids. This adventure is perfect for friends and families seeking excitement and unforgettable moments.

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As an untamed island, Sumatra holds some of Indonesia’s richest historical treasures. Explore its vibrant past and immerse yourself in its attractions that offer cultural charm.

Ampera Bridge

Visit this iconic landmark located in the heart of Palembang City. Connecting the Seberang Ulu and Seberang Ilir areas across the Musi River, it offers historic significance and stunning views.

Maimoon Palace

Travel to Medan and explore this 19th-century grand royal palace that bears Malay, Mogul, and Italian influences.

Jam Gadang

Head to Bukittinggi and marvel at this historic clock tower that features unique Minangkabau architecture.

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Taste your way through one of Indonesia’s richest regions and explore its vibrant food scene. Don’t miss Sumatra’s famous local dishes that leave a lasting impression.

Tempeh

Savour this Indonesian favourite, often served in Bukit Lawang as a local speciality. It’s made from fermented soybeans, and it has a firm bite and nutty taste.

Sumatran coffee

When you're in Lake Toba or nearby areas, stop by a cafe to sample authentic Sumatran coffee. This famous drink is grown on the volcanic slopes and is renowned for its rich, full-bodied flavour and hints of chocolate and spices.

Rendang

A famous dish in West Sumatra, this tender beef is slow-cooked in coconut milk with lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and chillies – making it tasty and full of flavour.

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Spend unforgettable days in Sumatra

This sample one-week itinerary offers a taste of the incredible experiences that await you in Sumatra, from wildlife encounters to cultural highlights and stunning landscapes.

Day 1–2

Fly to Medan (KNO) with us to start your Sumatran adventure. Visit the Great Mosque of Medan, Maimoon Palace, stroll through lively streets, and taste local dishes like tempeh and rendang.

Day 3

Travel to Bukit Lawang for ethical jungle trekking, where you can spot orangutans in Gunung Leuser National Park and explore its rainforests.

Day 4

Hike through Mount Sibayak or Mount Sinabung for breathtaking views.

Day 5

Visit Lake Toba to relax by the tranquil waters and explore the region’s traditional villages.

Day 6–7

Go whitewater rafting at the Binge River, then return to Medan. On your last day, explore the city for the last time before you depart from Kualanamu International Airport or continue to your next destination.

Day 1–2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6–7

Important travel information

If you are planning to travel to Sumatra, here’s some practical information to help make your trip smooth. From the weather and airport details to visa rules and useful tips, we’ve laid out what you need to know about the region here:

Sumatra stays mostly warm and humid all year, with frequent short rains even during the dry season. From September to November, the monsoon brings heavier rain. The best time to visit Sumatra is in summer, especially June, when the weather is drier and more comfortable. Pack light clothes and rain gear to stay prepared in Sumatra’s tropical climate.

If you’re flying to Sumatra, Medan’s Kualanamu International Airport – located at Jl. Bandara Kuala Namu, Sumatra Utara 20553, Indonesia – is the best place to start your journey. As one of Indonesia’s largest and busiest airports, it features spacious terminals, modern facilities, and excellent service to keep you comfortable. Etihad announced flights to Medan through this airport three times a week, making it easier than ever to reach Sumatra. The IATA airport code for Kualanamu International Airport is KNO.

Before you book your flights to Indonesia, check if you need a visa. Reach out to the nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate to get the most up-to-date information on visa rules and how to apply.

Visit visa duration: An Indonesian visit visa lets you stay in the country for up to 60 days. Subject to the approval of the local Immigration Office, you can also apply to extend your stay up to five times, with each extension spanning 30 days.

General entry requirements for Medan:

Completed visa application form

Valid passport

Recent bank statements

Confirmed return or onward flight tickets

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency of Indonesia.

Language: Bahasa is the official and main common language across Indonesia, including Sumatra. Depending on the area and neighbourhood, other languages spoken in the region include various Malay variants, Minangkabau, and English.

Sumatra is a vast and diverse island, full of culture, adventure, and stunning landscapes. Here’s how to get around and explore its highlights seamlessly:

Angkots (Sudako): When you’re in Medan, you can ride local minibuses to get around cheaply. They follow fixed routes but can stop anywhere, making them a flexible way to travel like a local.

Tourist buses and shared vans: Book these through your hotel for comfortable trips to Sumatra’s popular spots, with set departure times for convenience.

Private driver or scooter rental: If you want more comfort and flexibility, hire a private driver or rent a scooter for short trips.

Trains: Take trains from Medan to nearby towns. It’s the ideal way to seamlessly reach other places in Sumatra.

Becak: Experience local culture by riding a becak (cycle rickshaw) around the island. Make sure to agree on the fare before you hop on.

Fly to Sumatra with Etihad

Start an unforgettable journey to Sumatra, the vibrant heart of Indonesia, with Etihad. As the national airline of the UAE, we offer smooth travel to Medan (KNO), your gateway to this amazing region.

On board, you’ll find spacious seating, friendly service, and amazing amenities to keep you comfortable throughout your trip. We also have a convenient stopover option in Abu Dhabi, which includes up to two nights of free hotel stays – giving you time to explore the UAE capital at no extra cost. With reliable connections across the Etihad network, travelling to Sumatra is simple. Let us take care of you in the sky, so you can relax and fully focus on your adventure ahead.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes, we have flights to Medan (KNO), the capital of North Sumatra, three times a week starting from 02 October 2025 – with easy connections and optional stopover in Abu Dhabi.

Yes. Sumatra has activities for all ages, including wildlife treks in Bukit Lawang, whitewater rafting at the Binge River, and fun cultural experiences.

The best time to visit Sumatra is during the dry season, especially in June, when the weather is warm and comfortable.