Lake Toba, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lake Toba, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Lake Toba, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lake Toba, Indonesia

Based on the climate and weather in Lake Toba, Indonesia, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lake Toba, Indonesia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lake Toba, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lake Toba, Indonesia by month

January

If you go to Lake Toba in January, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

Traveling to Lake Toba in February, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

If you are traveling to Lake Toba in March, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April for Lake Toba is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

If you go to Lake Toba in May, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June for Lake Toba is hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

If you are traveling to Lake Toba in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

August is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

If you are traveling to Lake Toba in September, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

Traveling to Lake Toba in October, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November in Lake Toba is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December here is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lake Toba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to the Batak Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you're considering visiting Sipiso-piso falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Lake Toba, Indonesia

Lake Toba, located on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, is the largest volcanic lake in the world. The beauty of this lake is mesmerizing, and it is surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. The lake has many attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. Here are some top tourist attractions in Lake Toba, Indonesia.

1. Samosir Island

Samosir Island is the main attraction of Lake Toba. It is the world's largest island in a lake and is known for its mountainous terrain and stunning natural beauty. The island has many traditional Batak villages, which offer an insight into the local culture and customs. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, trekking, and swimming on the island.

2. Tomok Village

Tomok Village is located in Samosir Island and is known for its traditional Batak houses and the Tomb of King Sidabutar, which dates back to the 17th century. Visitors can also witness the Batak performing their traditional dances and music.

3. Ambarita Village

Ambarita Village is located in Samosir Island and is known for its stone chairs, which were used by the Batak to hold trials and executions in ancient times. The village also has a museum that showcases the local culture and customs.

4. Sipisopiso Waterfall

Sipisopiso Waterfall is located in the village of Tongging in North Sumatra, close to Lake Toba. The waterfall is about 120 meters high and is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia. Visitors can enjoy hiking and enjoy the stunning views of the waterfall.

5. Taman Simalem Resort

Taman Simalem Resort is located on the slope of the mountains overlooking Lake Toba. The resort is known for its stunning views of the lake and the lush green mountains. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as ziplining, trekking, cycling, and enjoying the local cuisine.

6. Berastagi

Berastagi is a small town located near Lake Toba that is known for its cool climate and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy hiking in the nearby mountains, visit the local hot springs, and admire the stunning views of the valley.

In conclusion, Lake Toba is a unique destination that offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure to its visitors. With its scenic landscapes, traditional Batak villages, and outdoor activities, Lake Toba is a must-visit destination in Indonesia.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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