Indonesia: Classic Sumatra

Embark on a traditional 'Becak' or single-seat Tuktuk as you set off to uncover the well-kept culinary secrets of the Bukit Lawang region. Enjoy your ride through the surrounding plantations as you are greeted by friendly local children along the way. Drop by the village rice flour mill, visit a palm plantation and watch how fresh palm sugar is churned out. Learn all about the region’s food processing cottage industries and stop by local family homes for a tasting of delicious, freshly-made tofu. Accept the gracious hospitality of your local host as she invites you into her kitchen, joined here by your local guide. Make the most of your day, as your expert home cook shows you how to cook the island’s favorite dish, Beef Rendang, now popular across the globe. Relish a sumptuous luncheon of the rich Rendang curry before heading back to your hotel. ( Time of Day: Afternoon; Duration: 1.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Meals included: Lunch: Note: Please indicate dietary preferences before the trip).'

Enjoy a fun tubing trip down a fast flowing river at the little village of Bukit Lawang. The charming village stands beside the Bohorok River, bordered by the thick forests of the Gunung Leuser National Park famed for its orangutans. Take a leisurely ride in an inflated rubber tube, floating gently downstream as you lie back to enjoy a clear blue sky overlaid by an emerald green jungle canopy above you. Listen to the sound of flowing water, peaceful bird songs and overhead tree talk, as the wind rushes through the leaves and branches above. Drift downstream for about a few hours, rafting over a couple of gentle rapids to make sure you don’t fall asleep amid your tranquil surroundings! At the end of your trip, perfectly balanced with adventure and relaxation, return to your hotel at Bukit Lawang by car. (Early evening Activity; Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Moderate; Note: Please carry sun hats, shades, sandals and waterproof pouches for all electronics and batteries).

Drive off early in the morning for a short trek to the high altitude Sibayak volcano, one of the most accessible of over 120 volcanoes in Indonesia. Walk for about an hour and a half to reach the crater of this dormant volcano, which has stayed calm for the past century. Scale the summit to enjoy panoramic views of the charming town of Berastagi and the surrounding landscape. You’ll be able to see right up to Mount Sinabung, an active volcano that has been erupting intermittently since 2010 after lying dormant for over four centuries. Gaze in awe at the steam and gases ooze out of the many fumaroles surrounding the crater lake - a unique and breathtaking natural phenomenon. The hissing noises can get as loud as the engine of a jet plane taking off! Explore the unique scenery at your own pace before making the descent back to your car. (Half Day; Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that while there is no fixed time for this trek, it is advisable to start early by 0500 hrs. Do wear trekking shoes and bring along a flashlight.)

Explore Samosir island in north Sumatra, the world’s largest island within an island, located on the volcanic Toba lake. Soak in the laidback vibe of the island as you walk past beautiful rice fields taking in the dramatic lakeside views and fresh air of this pristine region. Start from Tuk-Tuk and head towards Ambarita, an ancient Batak village known for its stone chairs and execution blocks used in trials of enemies and criminals. Learn about the culture and cannibalistic rituals of the Batak ethnic group that were practiced in ancient times. Continue onto Simanindo, walking around the traditional village as locals go about their daily life. Stop by the small museum that showcases cultural artifacts of the region and enjoy a traditional Batak Toba dance. Take a detour from the main road and walk through a scenic route crossing paddy fields, vegetable gardens and traditional homes that overlook spectacular views of the mountains and Toba lake to get an insight into the lives of the Toba people. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate; Dance performance at museum: Once a day at 10:30am, 45 minutes).