TRIP TO SUMATERA

Sumatra is an island located in Indonesia, Southeast Asia. It is the sixth largest island in the world and one of the main islands of the Indonesian archipelago. It lies west of the island of Java, separated by the Sunda Strait, and east of the Malay Peninsula, from which it is separated by the Strait of Malacca. The island of Sumatra is known for its biodiversity, with vast tropical forests home to unique species, such as the Sumatran tiger, the Sumatran orangutan, and the Sumatran rhinoceros.

Orang Utan of Bukit Lawang

Bukit Lawang, located in North Sumatra province, Indonesia, is a popular destination for viewing the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii). The village is a great base for exploring the national park’s rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to an orangutan rehabilitation center. Founded in the 1970s to rehabilitate orangutans rescued from illegal trade or captivity, the center has helped reintroduce many orangutans to their natural habitat.

Orang Utan of Ketambe

Ketambe is less crowded than Bukit Lawang, making it an ideal place for nature lovers who want to avoid the crowds while still seeing orangutans in their natural habitat. There are conservation programs in the area that aim to protect the orangutans and their environment, by raising awareness among the local community and visitors.

The Tangkahan Elephant

Tangkahan is a small village located in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia, near Gunung Leuser National Park. The village is famous for its rich ecosystem and population of the critically endangered Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus). Sumatran elephants are one of the most endangered elephant subspecies in the world, mainly due to habitat loss due to deforestation and the expansion of oil palm plantations. In Tangkahan, conservation efforts are underway to protect these elephants and their habitat. The village is home to a rehabilitation center for elephants rescued from capture or captivity.

Brastagi

Brastagi, also known as Berastagi, is a city located in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. It is located approximately 66 kilometers south of Medan, the provincial capital, and is perched at an altitude of approximately 1,300 meters above sea level. Brastagi is known for its cool climate, picturesque landscapes, and its role as an attractive tourist destination.

Sinabung Volcano

Although not accessible for hiking, this active volcano is visible from the city and offers an impressive view. Sinabung has experienced several eruptions in recent years, adding to its geological interest.

Sibayak Volcano

An active volcano popular with hikers, climbing Mount Sibayak offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and allows you to observe fumaroles and volcanic landscapes.

Batak's house

Traditional Karo houses, known as 'Rumah Adat', are a distinctive feature of the region. They are often decorated with symbolic motifs and are a testament to Karo cultural identity.

The North Sumatra Museum

The North Sumatra Museum (in Indonesian, Museum Sumatera Utara) is a major museum located in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The museum plays a key role in preserving and promoting the history, culture, and traditions of the region. The museum was founded in 1909 and is housed in a colonial-style building, which itself is a landmark. The building reflects the architecture of the Dutch colonial era. The museum houses an extensive collection of objects, artifacts, and exhibits relating to the history and culture of North Sumatra. The collections include prehistoric objects, ethnographic items, textiles, weapons, sculptures, and jewelry.

The Grand Mosque of Medan

The Grand Mosque of Medan (Masjid Raya Medan in Indonesian) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. This mosque is not only an important place of worship for the Muslim community, but also a notable architectural landmark. The mosque was inaugurated in 1906 and was built during the reign of Sultan Maimun, hence its name Masjid Raya Maimun. It was designed as part of the Sultan's desire to create a religious and cultural center for the community.

Maemun Grand Square

  • The boat takes you to Karimunjawa, an archipelago consisting of 27 islands.
  • Check-in at your hotel and free afternoon. You can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay.

Bukittinggi

Bukittinggi is a historic and picturesque town located in West Sumatra province, Indonesia. Its name literally means "High Hill" in Indonesian, reflecting its geographical position in the mountains of the Minangkabau Highlands. It is one of the most important towns in the region, known for its cool climate, spectacular scenery, and rich cultural history.

The Japanese Tunnel

The Japanese tunnel was built on the instructions of Lieutenant General Moritake Tanabe by Javanese forced labor during World War II. He was the commander of the 25th Division of the Japanese Army. The length of the Japanese tunnel reaches 6 kilometers and the width is about 2 meters. This tunnel is designed with many curves. Apart from that, the construction of this tunnel did not involve the residents of Bukittinggi at all. The purpose is to maintain confidentiality. The length of 6 kilometers makes this tunnel one of the longest in Asia and passes through several places, such as Jam Gadang and Fort De Kock. Because it was built in secret, this Japanese tunnel was not discovered until the early 1950s.

Ngarai Sianok

Ngarai Sianok, also known as Sianok Gorge, is a spectacular valley located near the town of Bukittinggi in West Sumatra. This valley is surrounded by steep cliffs and is crossed by a small winding river. It is famous for its breathtaking scenery, lush vegetation and tranquility. The steep cliffs surrounding the valley provide a striking contrast to the river that meanders through the green plain. It is a popular spot for photographers, hikers and nature lovers.

Jam Gadang (The Gadang Clock)

Gadang Clock (Jam Gadang) is a famous monumental clock located in the heart of Bukittinggi city, West Sumatra province, Indonesia. It is one of the iconic symbols of the region and a popular tourist site. Built in 1926 by Dutch settlers, the clock was given as an administrative gift for Bukittinggi, then called Fort de Kock. The engineer behind the construction was Yazid Abidin, assisted by Sutan Gigi Ameh. It was built without using metal nails, but with traditional materials such as sand, lime, and egg white. “Jam Gadang” literally means “big clock” in the Minangkabau language.

Pagaruyung Palace

Pagaruyung Square, often referred to as Istana Basa Pagaruyung (The Grand Palace of Pagaruyung), is an iconic historical and cultural site located in Batusangkar, Tanah Datar, in the heart of West Sumatra province, Indonesia. The place is a strong symbol of Minangkabau culture and history. Pagaruyung was once the center of the Pagaruyung Kingdom, which flourished from the 14th to the 17th centuries. The kingdom is known for playing a key role in spreading Minangkabau culture and Islam in the region. • The palace is a remarkable example of the Rumah Gadang style, typical of the Minangkabau. This style is characterized by pointed roofs shaped like buffalo horns, symbolizing power and unity. The building is constructed of wood, with intricate carvings and traditional motifs that represent cultural and natural elements.

Lake Maninjau

Lake Maninjau (Danau Maninjau in Indonesian) is a beautiful volcanic lake located in the West Sumatra region of Indonesia. Nestled in the mountains, it offers breathtaking scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular destination for nature and tranquility lovers. Lake Maninjau was formed in a caldera created by a massive volcanic eruption approximately 52,000 years ago. It has a surface area of ​​99.5 km² and an average depth of 105 meters. It is one of the largest lakes in Sumatra and Indonesia.

Palupuh National Park (The Rafflesia Flower – Large Flower With a Tropical Sensation)

It seems you are referring to Kerinci Seblat National Park, located in Sumatra, Indonesia. This park is one of the places where you can find the famous Rafflesia (Rafflesia arnoldii), known as the largest flower in the world. This giant flower can reach a diameter of 1 meter and weigh up to 11 kg. It is famous for its unpleasant odor, often compared to that of rotting meat, which earned it the nickname “corpse flower”. Rafflesia grows as a parasite on certain vines in the rainforest. It has no stem, leaves, or roots of its own and is entirely dependent on its host for its survival.

Mentawai

The Mentawai Islands, located off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, are a true tropical paradise. Known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ideal surfing waves, they attract nature and adventure lovers from all over the world. In addition to their idyllic landscapes, the islands are home to a unique indigenous culture, where the inhabitants, known as Mentawai, still preserve their ancestral traditions. Visitors can discover their traditional way of life, marked by symbolic tattoos and spiritual rituals connected to nature. These islands offer an authentic experience, blending cultural discovery with the exploration of pristine landscapes, perfect for those seeking an escape off the beaten path. Click here to learn more.

The highlights

  • Go and meet orangutans in their natural habitat.
  • Explore Ketambe, a secluded and off-the-beaten-path destination.
  • Experience a unique immersion in the rainforest of Gunung Leuser National Park.
  • Discover Tangkahan and its Sumatran elephants.
  • Admire the spectacular beauty of Lake Toba.
  • Meet the Batak people and immerse yourself in their ancestral traditions.
  • Enjoy a tailor-made trip combining wild nature, adventure and comfort.
  • Let yourself be guided by a local French-speaking agency specializing in Indonesia.

OUR GUARANTEES

Local Expertise

Tailor-Made Experience

Secure Payment

Responsible Commitment

When to Leave?

The best time to travel is during the following months:

Rates start at €1,580, based on a minimum of 4 people during the standard season.

The rate is per person and subject to availability. We will send you a personalized quote with the fixed price. This rate may vary based on several factors (number of participants, travel dates and hotel availability, vehicle size, guide specifications, and service levels).

If you are interested in this itinerary and the price indicated does not correspond to your budget, we can customize the quote according to your wishes.

General Terms and Conditions

  • Starting price: From 1.580 € per person, on a basis of 4 participants in the low season (and subject to availability).
  • Custom made : The final price is calculated per person. We will send you a personalized quote with a fixed price.
  • Factors of variation: The final price may vary depending on several factors:

✓ The exact number of participants.
✓ The travel period (high/low season, school holidays).
✓  Hotel availability and category.
✓ The type of vehicle required.
✓ The guide's specialization and the overall quality of the services.

The price includes

  • Accommodation: Overnight stays in the hotels mentioned in the program, with breakfasts included.
  • Private transport: A private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver throughout the stay.
  • Accompaniement : A local guide (English or French speaking, depending on your choice) throughout the stay.
  • Visits: Entrance tickets for the sites, monuments and all activities mentioned in the program.
  • Transfers: All land and sea transport (connections between the islands).
  • Equipment: The equipment needed for the planned activities (snorkeling, mountain biking, rafting, etc.).
  • Assistance: An emergency number is available. 24/7.

The price does not include

  • Flights: International flights and domestic (internal) flights.
  • Formalities & Insurance: The tourist visa must be paid for upon your arrival in Indonesia (approximately 500,000 IDR / ~€33 per person) as well as your personal travel insurance.
  • Meal : Lunches and dinners not explicitly mentioned in the program.
  • Extras: Optional activities and personal expenses.
  • Tips: Expect to pay approximately €10 to €20 per couple and per day (recommended for the driver and guide).
  • Modifications: Any change to the program or itinerary initiated by you.
  • Any service not mentioned in the "The price includes" section.

Supervision and Support

For your comfort, we offer different levels of support depending on the stage of your trip:

Private drivers (Logistics)

They handle the logistics of your stay. They know the routes perfectly and drop you off directly at the different sites.

  • Language: They speak basic English (generally not French).
  • Role: They are happy to share anecdotes about their island, manage the logistics, and buy your entrance tickets. However, they do not accompany you on visits and activities, where you remain completely independent.
The guides (French-speaking or English-speaking)

They work in addition to the local drivers. They accompany you during visits and activities throughout the trip, as detailed in your itinerary.

Important note: The guides are not the drivers, they are two separate people.

Local specialist guides (On site)
  • At major sites(e.g., Borobudur, Prambanan, Sultan's Palace): Official local guides (English or French speaking) will explain in detail the culture, history and philosophy of the places.
  • East of Java (e.g., Mount Bromo, Kawah Ijen, Madakaripura and Tumpaksewu waterfalls): It is impossible to find local French-speaking guides on site. You will therefore be accompanied by a English-speaking local guide.
Sites open for self-guided visits (without a local guide)

Some smaller sites do not have guides on site. In this case, your driver will buy your entrance tickets and you will visit independently, at your own pace.

Transport & Vehicles

Transportation is a key element to the success of your trip. On islands like Java, Sumatra or Flores, journeys are often very long. We select spacious and comfortable vehicles to ensure your travels remain pleasant.

Vehicle typeIdeal CapacityRecommended configuration

Toyota Innova Reborn

(2.0L – 2.5L engine)

2 to 3 passengers (with guide on board)

Maximum 4 passengers (without a guide on board)

Very comfortable vehicle. Has 6 seats in the rear, configured to leave room for luggage and suitcases.

Toyota Hiace Minibus

(2.5L – 2.8L engine)

4 to 9 passengers (with guide on board)

Ideal for 6 to 7 people + 1 guide

Large space. Features 9 seats in the rear with dedicated luggage space for all passengers.
Bus / Coach10 people or moreWe provide buses for you 30 seats or 40 to 50 seats depending on the size of your group.

*) Please provide the exact number of participants so that we can best adapt your vehicle and offer you the fairest price.

Accommodation

We select our accommodations according to several categories to best suit your expectations and budget:

Guest Houses / Homestays

Our criterion is to find simple and welcoming places.

  • Services: Clean accommodation with private bathroom, garden and small terrace to enjoy nature. Some establishments have a small swimming pool ideal for children.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆☆ (3 out of 5)
Local Hotels – Mid-Range (Superior Category)

Establishments offering excellent value for money with more space.

  • Services: Spacious, nicely decorated, clean room with a private bathroom. You will enjoy a lovely garden, a small terrace and, for some rooms, a children's pool.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆☆ (3 out of 5)
Local Hotels – Superior Range (Charm and Authenticity)

For travellers seeking artistic details and a more typical setting.

  • Services: Spacious rooms with charming and tasteful décor, private bathrooms (sometimes open to the outdoors in harmony with nature). The hotels boast beautiful terraces overlooking magnificent gardens and are situated in prime locations. They generally feature lovely swimming pools suitable for children.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (4 out of 5)
Luxury Hotels

Ideal for families seeking absolute serenity or for an unforgettable honeymoon.

  • Services: Charming accommodations with exquisite artistic touches in the rooms, on the terraces, and in the bathrooms. These are often small, intimate, and welcoming establishments nestled in lush natural surroundings. They feature a magnificent swimming pool in the middle of a large garden, offering a perfect romantic setting for honeymooners.
  • Comfort level: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (5 out of 5)
Hotels of International Standards (3 to 5 Stars / Resorts)

If you prefer the infrastructure of large hotel chains to local charm.

  • Services: Large complexes or resorts offering a multitude of services and facilities: huge swimming pool, large landscaped garden, sometimes even a golf course.

Please do not hesitate to let us know your specific requirements so that we can offer you the ideal establishment.

Food & Drinks

  • Breakfasts: They are almost always included and served directly by your hotels.
  • Lunches and Dinners: They are generally excluded from our packages in order to leave you free to choose where and what you want to eat, according to your desires and the type of restaurant you like.
  • Water safety: Never drink tap water or water from local springs. When hiking, water should always be treated. In town, drink only bottled water with a sealed cap.
  • At your disposal: For your comfort and safety, your driver will provide you with the following every day: bottled mineral water.

Tips

Tips are not never mandatoryHowever, they are a much-appreciated gesture of gratitude. In Indonesia, it is customary to leave one when you are satisfied with the service provided.

The amount of a tip depends on your discretion and should be in line with the local economy. Tips that are too high relative to the country's standard of living can destabilize local economies.

Indicative benchmarks:

  • In hotels: Expect to pay approximately 1 € for the porter who carries your luggage to your room. At check-out, you can leave approximately 1 € for the cleaning staff.
  • During the tour: An amount of €8 to €12 per couple per day, to be divided between the guide and the driver (for example: €10 for the guide / €5 for the driver), corresponds to local standards.

Important reminder: A tip is a small token of appreciation for good service. It does not replace our team's salary. Everyone involved in your trip receives a fair and fixed wage from us.

 

General Terms and Conditions of Sale (GTC)

Booking and Payment

Registration for one of the activities or a trip offered by the agency Java Exotic Tour implies full and complete acceptance of our general terms and conditions of sale.

  • Booking confirmation: Your reservation is definitively confirmed upon receipt and acceptance of a deposit representing 30% of the total amount of the trip, subject to availability.
  • Last-minute booking: If registration takes place less than 32 days before the departure date, the full price of the trip must be paid at the time of booking.
  • Payment methods: You can make your payments by international bank transfer (SWIFT/IBAN) or by credit card via a secure online payment link. A booking confirmation will be sent to you by email as soon as possible.
  • Payment of the balance (70%):
    • It can be adjusted in cash (in Euros) upon your arrival in Indonesia.
    • If you prefer to pay the balance by bank transfer, we ask that you do so upon your arrival in the country or 1 week before departure if it is a mini-tour (stay of less than one week).
  •  Important banking clauses:
    • The payment is net of fees: all bank transfer fees (sender and recipient fees) remain exclusively your responsibility.
    • The name of the bank beneficiary provided is unique. To avoid failure or rejection of your transfer, you must not change this name under any circumstances.

Cancellation Terms and Fees

If, for any reason, you are forced to cancel your trip, the refund of sums paid will be made less the following cancellation fees (calculated based on the date your notification is received):

Cancellation deadline before departureFees retained (% of the total amount of the file)

Up to 31 days

From 30 to 21 days

From 20 to 14 days

From 20 to 14 days

In less than 8 days

30 % of the total amount (equivalent to the deposit)

40 % of the total amount

50% of the total amount

75% of the total amount

100% of the total amount

Cancellation by the agency:

  • Insufficient number of participants: If the agency Java Exotic Tour If the company is forced to cancel a group departure due to a lack of participants, the decision will be made and customers will be informed as soon as possible. 20 days before departure.
  • Cases of force majeure: The agency may also cancel a departure due to exceptional and unavoidable events constituting force majeure (volcanic eruptions, civil unrest, strikes, severe weather) that could compromise the safety of participants. In these situations, participants will be reimbursed for the sums paid, less any compensation and expenses already incurred and non-refundable with service providers (such as hotels).
Reminder: Tips

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a highly appreciated gesture of gratitude in Indonesia when customers are satisfied with the service. The amount should be reasonable and in line with the local economy so as not to destabilize the country's overall standard of living.

  • At the hotel: Approximately 1 € for the baggage handler and about 1 € for the cleaning staff at the time of departure (check-out).
  • During the tour: An amount of €8 to €12 per couple per day, to be divided between the guide and the driver, corresponds to local standards.
  • Remuneration: Gratuities are an additional service and in no way replace the salaries of our staff. All individuals involved in our trips are properly compensated separately.
  1. Encourage interaction with the residents Throughout this tour, you will have regular contact with local people. Learning a few simple Indonesian words like "Terima kasih" (thank you), "Selamat pagi" (hello), or "Permisi" (excuse me) is always greatly appreciated and facilitates communication. These small gestures make encounters more authentic and enriching.
  2. Protect yourself from the tropical sun Indonesia has a sunny climate all year round. Remember to pack:
    • ✓ A high SPF sunscreen
    • ✓ A hat or a cap
    • ✓ Sunglasses
    This will allow you to fully enjoy outdoor activities: hiking, cultural visits and sea excursions.
  3. Choose appropriate clothing For temples and traditional villages, it is advisable to wear:
    • ✓ Clothing that covers the shoulders
    • ✓ Trousers or skirts below the knee
    • ✓ A sarong can be very useful (and is often provided on site at temples)
  4. Recommended footwear Some tours include walks, hikes, or walks through wetlands (waterfalls, volcanoes). Please plan accordingly:
    • ✓ Comfortable shoes
    • ✓ Non-slip sandals
    • ✓ Possibly water shoes
  5. Respect for local customs Indonesia is a welcoming country that respects traditions. A few simple gestures:
    • ✓ Avoid overly visible displays of affection in villages
    • ✓ Ask permission before photographing the inhabitants
    • ✓ Use your right hand to give or receive
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