Sumatra

Best time to visit

Located in Indonesia's westernmost island, Sumatra is a hidden gem known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife. This enchanting island offers luxury holidays in Sumatra visitors a perfect blend of awe-inspiring natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and traditional indigenous communities. When it comes to exploring Sumatra, there is no shortage of experiences to immerse yourself in.

One of the best ways to discover the beauty of Sumatra is by staying at one of the many luxurious resorts scattered across the island. Offering luxury holidays in Sumatra with breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, sumptuous accommodations, and top-notch amenities, these sumatra luxury resorts allow you to unwind in style after a day of adventure. From the tranquil rainforests in Bukit Lawang to the idyllic beaches of Banyak Islands, there is an array of sumatra resorts that cater to every luxury holidays in Sumatra traveler's preferences.

Sumatra's natural wonders truly take center stage, with highlights such as the majestic Lake Toba, the world's largest volcanic lake. Surrounded by verdant hills and traditional Batak villages, this serene destination offers a glimpse into the island's indigenous cultures. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Gunung Leuser National Park is a must-visit, home to the endangered Sumatran orangutans and other fascinating fauna. Additionally, the Kerinci Seblat National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Beyond its natural wonders, Sumatra's appeal lies in its vibrant culture. The island is inhabited by a medley of ethnic groups, each with their own customs and traditions. From the vibrant Minangkabau people with their unique traditional houses to the enchanting Batak communities known for their lively music and dance, Sumatra offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Don't miss the chance to savor the exquisite cuisine, which includes specialties like rendang and sate padang.

Sumatra is a destination that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're seeking adventure in the wilderness or looking to immerse yourself in local culture, this Indonesian island delivers. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and let Sumatra weave its magic on you.

CULTURE & HISTORY

Culture of Sumatra

The high Barisan Mountains run northwest-southeast for some 1,000 miles (1,600 km), reaching an elevation of 12,467 feet (3,800 metres) at Mount Kerinci. Eastward, flat alluvial lands are drained by many rivers; the Hari River, navigable for 300 miles (480 km), is the longest. Lake Toba, with an area of about 440 square miles (1,140 square km), is the largest of many mountain lakes.

Sumatra’s climate is hot, except in the highlands, and extremely moist. Vegetation includes monster flowers (Rafflesia arnoldii), myrtles, bamboo, rhododendrons, orchids, and such trees as the Sumatran pine (Pinus merkusii), palm, oak, chestnut, ebony, ironwood, camphorwood, sandalwood, and rubber-producing types. The island’s animal life includes orangutans, various apes, elephants, tapirs, tigers, the two-horned Sumatran rhinoceros, gibbons, tree shrews, flying lemurs, wild boars, and civets. Three national parks on the island—Mount Leuser, Kerinci Seblat, and Bukit Barisan Selatan—collectively were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004.

ADVENTURE & WILDLIFE

Wildlife of Sumatra

Sumatrans speak languages of the Austronesian (Malayo-Polynesian) language family. The Acehnese inhabit northwestern Sumatra; the Gayo and Alas peoples, the mountainous north-central area; the Batak, around and south of Lake Toba; and the Minangkabau (the largest ethnic group), the Padang Highlands. South of Padang along the western coast live the Rejang mountain people and the Lampung coastal dwellers. The Malays, a coastal and riverine people dominating the eastern coast and the wide southern plains, speak Malay, the long-standing lingua franca of the archipelago. Most Sumatrans are Muslims, though some are Christians and animists.