Title: Sumatra Travel Guide: Best of Sumatra, Indonesia Travel 2026 | Expedia.co.uk

[Hotels in Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Sumatra-Hotels.d6049206.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Holiday Rentals in Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Sumatra-Holiday-Rentals.d6049206.Travel-Guide-HolidayRentals)[Flights to Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Sumatra.d6049206.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Sumatra.d6049206.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Sumatra Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Sumatra.d6049206.Car-Hire-Guide)[Sumatra Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Sumatra.d6049206.Holidays-City-Breaks)

# Sumatra Travel Guide

## Tourist Guide

![Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89976-Sumatra.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

[Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89976-Sumatra.jpg)

![Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89974-Sumatra.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

[Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89974-Sumatra.jpg)

![Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89978-Sumatra.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

[Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89978-Sumatra.jpg)

![Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89975-Sumatra.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

[Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89975-Sumatra.jpg)

![Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89977-Sumatra.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

[Photo provided by Dan Holz](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/89000/89977-Sumatra.jpg)

## Visit Sumatra

Where to stay

Things to do

#### Experience life truly at the whim of nature on this staggeringly beautiful island, where multicultural villages are nestled in jungles on the foothills of volcanic peaks.

Sumatra is a large island stretching between the Malay Peninsula and Java, and is world-renowned for its dense jungles, smoking volcanoes and unforgiving waves. While Sumatra may seem like an unruly tropical wilderness, spend some time among the diverse cultures that populate the island and discover the unifying reverence of nature that has kept harmony here for centuries.

Visit the southernmost province of Sumatra, Lampung, and go on a trekking trip through the Way Kambas National Park to spot elusive Sumatran elephants and rhinoceros or summit the notorious Mount Krakatau. Laze on the beautiful beaches of Krui or spot dolphins in Kiluan Bay. Nearby, you’ll find fantastic snorkeling and granite beaches in the picturesque province of Bangka-Belitung.

### West Sumatra is the home of the Minangkabau people, the highland market city of Bukittinggi and the twists and turns of the amazing road that is Kelok Sembilan. Explore peaceful lakeshores in this province or test your skill on the wild surf of Mentawai.

Experience the historical unity of the island’s Muslim and Christian populations in North Sumatra, which contains the island’s largest city, Medan. Meet Sumatra’s most famous resident, the orangutan, in a sanctuary in Bukit Lawang or take in some of the region’s spectacular lake scenery at Lake Toba. The prominent religion in this area is Batak, while northerly Aceh is predominantly Muslim. Visit Aceh to go diving and snorkeling at Pulau Weh and Singkil or delve into the hillside jungles of Gunung Leuser National Park to spot elusive primates. Be sure to book a local guide when embarking on a trekking adventure to experience a safe and informative journey through the Sumatran wilderness.

With diverse cultures and influences, Sumatra also has a delicious mix of cuisines. Try spicy Malay-inspired dishes, Chinese delicacies and provincial specialties.

Reach Sumatra by ferry to Dumai from Malaysia or by flying into one of the island’s major airports. Make use of these airports when exploring the different provinces, as bus transport can be slow and rough. Private cars and taxis are also available. Visit Sumatra between May and September to make the most of the drier weather. Sumatra is warm year-round, presenting great conditions for trekking, diving and surfing.

### Where to stay in Sumatra

![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium)

### Tanjung Karang

 While Tanjung Karang isn't home to many top sights, Mall Kartini and Adipura Monument are some notable places to visit nearby. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Bandar-Lampung-Tanjung-Karang.dx553248635975879799)

![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium)

### Kesawan

3/5(2 area reviews)

 Spas, restaurants and shopping highlight some of the noteworthy features of Kesawan. Make a stop by Grand City Hall or Tjong A Fie's Mansion while you're exploring the neighbourhood. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan-Kesawan.dx553248635070786252)

![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium)

### Sukarami

 When in Sukarami and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Palembang Trade Center Mall or Museum Balaputra Dewa and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Bandara LRT Station or Punti Kayu LRT Station. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Palembang-Sukarami.dx553248635976008661)

![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium)

### Kampung Madras

 Kampung Madras might not have many top sights, but Sun Plaza and Grand City Hall are two attractions nearby that you can check out. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan-Kampung-Madras.dx713480331494428672)

![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium)

### Al-Munawar Arab Village

 Al-Munawar Arab Village might not have many top sights, but Palembang Indah Mall and Palembang Golf Club are two attractions nearby that you can check out. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Palembang-Al-Munawar-Arab-Village.dx553248634315557063)

- Top hotels in Sumatra
- Top Holiday Rentals in Sumatra

![JW Marriott Hotel Medan](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/3000000/2430000/2428400/2428310/w4000h2661x0y0-87ad47d6_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

JW Marriott Hotel Medan

Jalan Putri Hijau No. 10 Medan North Sumatra

£69

2 Jan - 3 Jan 2026

includes taxes & fees

Stay at this luxury hotel in Medan. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...

9/10 Wonderful! (621 reviews)

Premier hotel in Medan, with the premier shopping mall across the street.

Reviewed on 8 Dec 2025

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=03%2F01%2F2026&selected=2428310&PinnedHotelID=2428310&HadPinnedHotel=true&regionId=6049206)

![Four Points by Sheraton Medan](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/7000000/6190000/6189200/6189177/3a1e4b97_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Four Points by Sheraton Medan

Jl. Gatot Subroto No. 395 Medan North Sumatra

£39

2 Jan - 3 Jan 2026

includes taxes & fees

Stay at this spa hotel in Medan. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Plaza Medan Fair and Rahmat International Wildlife ...

8.2/10 Very Good! (121 reviews)

Noisy room 

Hotel sound proof is not so good . Can hear the noise of car and motorcycle on the road side at night time

Reviewed on 29 Apr 2025

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=03%2F01%2F2026&selected=6189177&PinnedHotelID=6189177&HadPinnedHotel=true&regionId=6049206)

![Bamboe Inn Homestay](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/33000000/32480000/32479400/32479347/01afe653_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Bamboe Inn Homestay

Jl. Griya Utama No. 57 Bandar Lampung Sumatra

£8

14 Jan - 15 Jan 2026

includes taxes & fees

Stay at this business-friendly B&B in Bandar Lampung. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Transmart Shopping Center ...

Nice place with a restaurant attached. A local convenient store near by.

Reviewed on 15 Oct 2023

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=14%2F01%2F2026&endDate=15%2F01%2F2026&selected=32479347&PinnedHotelID=32479347&HadPinnedHotel=true&regionId=6049206)

[See all 1,755 properties in Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=26%2F12%2F2025&endDate=27%2F12%2F2025&regionId=6049206)

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

![Alhesa Apartment](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/102000000/101210000/101204900/101204895/26e12f51_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Alhesa Apartment

Jl. Dr. Mansyur No.165 Medan North Sumatra

Stay at this aparthotel in Medan. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 6 outdoor pools and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Vihara Gunung Timur and Rahmat International ...

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan-Hotels-Alhesa-Apartment.h101204895.Hotel-Information)

![Royal Suite Condotel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/11000000/10530000/10524000/10523957/66f8ccda_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Royal Suite Condotel

Jl. Palang Merah No. 1 Medan North Sumatra

Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Medan. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and room service. Popular attractions Tjong A Fie's Mansion and Vihara Borobudur ...

5.8/10 (24 reviews)

A few items, e.g. AirCon, cabinets, curtains, are not working or damaged. Kitchen is well down equipped.

Reviewed on 24 Feb 2023

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan-Hotels-Royal-Suite-Condotel.h10523957.Hotel-Information)

![Apartment Podomoro Medan by OLS Studio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/97000000/96880000/96874600/96874578/3f5f8989_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Apartment Podomoro Medan by OLS Studio

Jl. Putri Hijau No.1 Kesawan Medan North Sumatra

Stay at this apartment in Medan. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 3 outdoor pools and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions DeliPark Mall Medan and Grand City ...

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan-Hotels-Apartment-Podomoro-Medan-By-OLS-Studio.h96874578.Hotel-Information)

[See all properties in Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&regionId=6049206&sort=VACATION_RENTAL)

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

## Check Sumatra hotel availability

[Tonight

](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=2025-12-25&endDate=2025-12-26)[25 Dec - 26 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=2025-12-25&endDate=2025-12-26)

[Tomorrow night

](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=2025-12-26&endDate=2025-12-27)[26 Dec - 27 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=2025-12-26&endDate=2025-12-27)

[This weekend

](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=26%2F12%2F2025&endDate=28%2F12%2F2025)[26 Dec - 28 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=26%2F12%2F2025&endDate=28%2F12%2F2025)

[Next weekend

](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=04%2F01%2F2026)[2 Jan - 4 Jan](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6049206&startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=04%2F01%2F2026)

### Popular places to visit

![Jam Gadang](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/c6d8c7b14379167ce8bef98ee57ebd17.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Jam Gadang

After visiting Jam Gadang, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Bukittinggi. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Jam-Gadang-Bukittinggi.d553248621526914429.Attraction)

![Bukit Lawang Bridge](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/ac0dc2b27710bd0e3b17a8a0fa26f2ef.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Bukit Lawang Bridge

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bukit Lawang Bridge during your travels in Bukit Lawang. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Bukit-Lawang-Bridge-Bukit-Lawang.d553248622006901790.Attraction)

#### Sun Plaza

You can enjoy retail therapy at Sun Plaza during your trip to Medan. While in the area, you can find time to visit its spas. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Sun-Plaza-Medan.d6106274.Attraction)

#### Medan Mall

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Medan Mall during your stay in Medan. While in the area, you can find time to visit its spas. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan-Mall-Medan.d6106270.Attraction)

#### Taman Bunga Pematang Siantar

Explore the great outdoors at Taman Bunga Pematang Siantar, a lovely green space in Pematangsiantar. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the temples while you're in the area. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Taman-Bunga-Pematang-Siantar-Pematangsiantar.d553248635998000165.Attraction)

#### Grand City Hall

Learn about the local history of Medan when you spend time at Grand City Hall. Visit the area's spas and shops. 

[](https://expedia.co.uk/Balai-Kota-Kesawan.d553248621526916611.Attraction)

### Things to do

![4 Days Bukit Lawang Tour Include 2 Days 1 Night Jungle Trekking](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/2712232/9753cd5a-fd86-47dc-93e2-9635c216d064.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### 4 Days Bukit Lawang Tour Include 2 Days 1 Night Jungle Trekking

£393

per adult

[](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/4-days-bukit-lawang-tour-include-2-days-1-night-jungle-trekking.a2712232.activity-details)

![From Medan: Mount Leuser National Park Full-Day Trip](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/44645311/7c233b4f-7e67-4560-a411-8cbaef92014d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### From Medan: Mount Leuser National Park Full-Day Trip

£189

per adult

[](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/from-medan-mount-leuser-national-park-full-day-trip.a44645311.activity-details)

![3 days Medan Orangutan Bukit Lawang](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/2730869/7c5ba9cf-72f3-4782-b423-c9ff230ba370.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### 3 days Medan Orangutan Bukit Lawang

£224

per adult

[](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/3-days-medan-orangutan-bukit-lawang.a2730869.activity-details)

[See all activities in Sumatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Sumatra.d6049206.Travel-Guide-Activities)

## Cities near Sumatra

![Photo by ArRy Fridiansyah](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/c18e44a7fd96ec6edce19547571be758.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Banda Aceh

![Jambi](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/1/0404662cfa9e6d301192955be29fc9b9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Jambi

![Medan](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/1/e5275b25d3afd7e0b3123d5639e4ff32.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Medan

![Padang](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/1/7fc7be6e4ecb520eeec5011ebb66adda.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium)

### Padang

- Cities near Sumatra
- Places of interest

[Bengkulu](https://expedia.co.uk/Bengkulu.dx608)[Banda Aceh](https://expedia.co.uk/Banda-Aceh.dx705)[Jambi](https://expedia.co.uk/Jambi.dx1017)[Medan](https://expedia.co.uk/Medan.dx2263)[Padang](https://expedia.co.uk/Padang.dx2754)[Pekanbaru](https://expedia.co.uk/Pekanbaru.dx2812)[Palembang](https://expedia.co.uk/Palembang.dx2818)[Dumai](https://expedia.co.uk/Dumai.dx6927)[Parapat](https://expedia.co.uk/Parapat.dx9049)[Panyabungan](https://expedia.co.uk/Panyabungan.dx6197919)[Natar](https://expedia.co.uk/Natar.dx6335251)[Belawan](https://expedia.co.uk/Belawan.dx6336401)[Lahat](https://expedia.co.uk/Lahat.dx6336502)[Sibolga](https://expedia.co.uk/Sibolga.dx6336650)[Sibolangit](https://expedia.co.uk/Sibolangit.dx6337569)[Kalianda](https://expedia.co.uk/Kalianda.dx6342387)[Bohorok](https://expedia.co.uk/Bohorok.dx6357359)[Bukit Lawang](https://expedia.co.uk/Bukit-Lawang.dx6359302)[Tuk Tuk](https://expedia.co.uk/Tuk-Tuk.dx3000004025)[Matur](https://expedia.co.uk/Matur.dx3000004133)[Batusangkar](https://expedia.co.uk/Batusangkar.dx3000004229)[Metro](https://expedia.co.uk/Metro.dx3000390432)[Pagar Alam](https://expedia.co.uk/Pagar-Alam.dx3000395341)

- [Masjid Raya Baiturrahman ](https://expedia.co.uk/Masjid-Raya-Baiturrahman-Banda-Aceh.d6254732.Attraction)
- [Bukit Lawang Bridge ](https://expedia.co.uk/Bukit-Lawang-Bridge-Bukit-Lawang.d553248622006901790.Attraction)
- [Gunung Leuser National Park ](https://expedia.co.uk/Gunung-Leuser-National-Park-Aceh.d6106264.Attraction)

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