Lake Toba is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. This massive crater lake even has an island at its center, with an area almost equivalent to that of Singapore!
With an area of more than 1,145 km² and a depth of 450 meters, Lake Toba has an oceanic appearance. It is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest in the world.
A spectacular Indonesian lake
Toba is an ideal place to settle down, relax, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes. As you sit and gaze at the picturesque mountains surrounding the clear, cool lake, you will feel the worries of the world melt away. Due to the lake’s position at an altitude of 900 meters, the climate is rather cool, offering a pleasant contrast to the heat, humidity, and pollution of the cities.
Getting there
Feel the wind in your hair and embrace the local culture by renting a motorbike to explore this magnificent region of the world. If you’re on Samosir Island, take a day to explore the area. The island’s road, though sometimes rough and unpaved, offers spectacular views of the lake from the island’s peaks. While in the popular village of Tuk Tuk on Samosir, it’s best to take a leisurely walk or stroll down the main street at a relaxed pace.
A spectacular Indonesian lake
Arriving there
Parapat, located on the edge of Lake Toba, is a town situated 176 km from Medan and accessible in less than six hours by public bus on two routes: Medan-Parapat or Medan-Berastagi.
Travel agents in Medan can also arrange a rental car and driver for you. Medan is a global hub, with Kualanamu Airport connected daily by several airlines to all major cities in Indonesia, as well as international flights to Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.
Upon arriving in Parapat, you can take a ferry to Samosir Island. The ferry runs every hour and a half. The traditional villages of Tomok and Tuk Tuk are the two entry points to Samosir, where the island’s hotels and restaurants are located. If you arrive from the south via Bukittinggi and Tarutung, there is also a public bus service.
