Lake Toba, Medan Overview

Lake Toba, located in Northern Sumatra, is the largest lake created within a volcanic crater. Deemed to be one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, the vast area of the lake surpasses the size of Singapore. Its depth of 450 meters also makes Lake Toba one of the deepest lakes across the globe. The exotic greenery and pristine blue waters of the lake make a mesmerising picture that lures thousands of tourists to the site easily accessible from Medan.

Visitors are simply awestruck to find the Samosir Island within the island of Sumatra. That makes it an island within another island! Lake Toba is an ideal place to getaway from the busy city life and cacophony with the cool mountain air providing instant relief from the heat, humidity and dust of the urban localities nearby. The spectacular view of the mountains all around can be relaxing while interacting with the indigenous Batak people can help one understand more about a unique culture and life style.

Things to Do at Lake Toba

1. Relaxing amidst nature
Many of the visitors choose to sit by the lake, walking along the shore or enjoying a picnic on the grass. It presents a beautiful scenic picture that excites the nature lovers along with people hoping to rejuvenate their minds by gazing at the idyllic settings.

2. Swimming
The beach area is not similar to the fabulous beaches with white or golden sand that feels soft against the skin. However, a good number of tourists do go swimming in the warm waters of the volcanic lake that provides a comfortable and restful experience.

3. Dining beside Lake Toba
There are a number of eateries located around the lake. Visitors choose to rest by the side of the lake while sampling the delicious dishes prepared according to the traditional Batak cuisine. The Ikan Bakar (char grilled fish) with rice is a popular dish as is the local snack of Goreng Pisang (fried bananas).

4. Hiking up Pusuk Buhit
Lake Toba is a tranquil place and ideal for the laid back crowd. However, the ones eager for adventure can also go hiking up the Pusuk Buhit, a dormant volcano. Legend has it that the first Batak man was born on the mountain. There are numerous tourists along with Batak people climbing the mountain right up to the summit in order to seek the blessings of the ancestral spirit.

Best Time to Visit

It is worth visiting Lake Toba during the dry months lasting from May to September.

Tips

1. Shielding the head and face from the sun is advisable. Tourists are recommended to apply sunscreen creams liberally over the exposed areas of the body
2. Carrying an umbrella or a raincoat can help to shelter the body from rain
3. It is important to have cash handy as there is only one ATM on the island and money exchange rates are not the best
4. Having a mosquito repellant is a surefire way of staying protected from insect bites