Sumatra
You won’t meet many people outside Indonesia who’ve taken trips to Sumatra. It’s a vast island where protected National Parks, like Gunung Leuser, face a continuous battle against palm oil, logging and rubber industries. Many of the animals in Sumatra spring straight from the ultimate wildlife enthusiast’s ‘must see’ list: tigers and rhinos live deep within the jungle, and observing wild orangutans in their natural habitat is a credible prospect. Riverside lodges are simple and traditional, with ceiling fans and mosquito nets providing basic home comforts. If you’re looking for a unique, off grid adventure, you’re in for a real treat.
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Three things to do in Sumatra
Stretch your comfort zone
There’s a really rugged feel to much of Sumatra. It’s a place to step out of your comfort zone and stay in rustic accommodation that you might not usually consider, such as simple jungle lodges and riverside eco-retreats. Pushing your boundaries and sleeping under mosquito nets won’t be for everyone, and there’s a fabulous hotel in the city centre of Median where you can treat yourself to a bit more extravagance if you wish. However, if you’re up for an adventure, and perhaps re-enacting the excitement and spontaneity of travelling experiences from ‘way back when’, then Sumatra might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Wild orangutans
As you sit on your balcony overlooking the Bohorok River, listening to the calls of the surrounding rainforest, it’s obvious why Bukit Lawang is seen as such a travellers’ treat. Spent the days trekking in Gunung Leuser National Park, treading over several high boardwalks, and perhaps catching your first glimpse of a Sumatran orangutan. Of all the animals in Sumatra, these rather wispy-haired cousins of the Bornean orangutan must be the most well-known. Sadly they are now critically endangered, and seeing them in their natural habitat is an incredibly rare experience. Until we’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of that russet fur, we’re happy to sit and listen to the calls of the wild…
Lake Toba
Although many of Lake Toba’s designated swim spots get pretty busy, it’s still possible to escape the crowds, (and the jet skis) on a hike around the water’s edge. This is Indonesia‘s largest lake, and the deepest volcanic lake on the planet. The region is also an epicentre for indigenous Batak tribal culture. Visiting a village on Samosir Island, in the middle of Toba, unveils examples of Batak architecture as well as intricate, handmade art and crafts at the local market. Elsewhere on Samosir, you can trek to waterfalls and stay in a traditional guest house, where the surrounding mountain scenery more than makes up for any scarcity of home comforts.
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Inspiring experiences and places to stay…
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The Selective Asia difference
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For us, travel is one of life's great privileges — one that should never be taken for granted. It’s about taking things slow — giving yourself time for thoughtful curiosity. Time to immerse yourself in your destination, get closer to the ground, and feel your way to greater understanding.
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