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Referred to as the
centrepiece of North Sumatra Lake Toba offers beautiful scenery and a
pleasant climate. Lake Toba is the largest lake in South East Asia
measuring 100km in length; it is also one of the deepest and highest
lakes in the world. The lake was formed after a prehistoric volcanic
explosion; today the surrounding landscape is steep and fertile. Lake
Toba has the island of Samosir situated in the centre of the lake and
a regular ferry is available from the mainland to Samosir. Samosir is
home to the hospitable tribe, Toba Batak and is well worth a visit,
just to capture the traditions and culture of the tribe.
WHERE TO EAT
High quality hotels can be found on the mainland at Prapat, many of
which have restaurants serving European food. Leo's jazz blues
restaurant & cafe (near Elsine GH & Hora's Homestay) offers video,
pizzas & happy hour. Reggae bar (near Samosir & Anju cottages) boast a
pool table. Tuk-Tuk and Samosir are littered with small cafes to
larger more upscale restaurants. Explore, and you will not be
dissapointed!
WHERE TO STAY
Two star hotels and comfortable home
stays can be found on the Island of Samosir.
GETTING AROUNG
Lake Toba is approximately 3 hours by road from Medan there is a
frequent bus service that runs from Medan to Lake Toba and hired taxis
available. If you are in Samosir and wish to go to Lake Toba there is
a regular ferry service that will carry passengers and motorcycles. If
you so desire there are private speedboats for charter.
ACTIVITIES
Lake Toba is a spectacular experience, it is a walker's paradise.
There are a variety of tours available encompassing Samosir and the
surrounding area. The ferry from the mainland to Samosir is a pleasant
experience and a trip to Samosir provides an insight into the local
Batak culture that resides on the island. If you're into photography
Lake Toba is a good place to go and take some magnificent pictures.
ATTRACTIONS
BATAK CULTURAL CENTER
Lively and exciting dance and music
performances are held here every Saturday night for a modest entrance
fee; alternatively Prapat hotel has a similar cultural exhibition on
their premises for tour groups. The week-long Lake Toba Festival is
held annually in June, where alongside the song and dance, is the
fascinating canoe race held by competing villages.
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