"Berastagi: Volcanoes and Batak Karo culture" Berastagi by Bonobo2005

Berastagi Travel Guide: 86 reviews and 204 photos

Berastagi, just a few hours away from Medan, came as a big and pleasant surprise to me.

After visiting the main tourist spots of Bukkittinggi, Lake Toba, Bukit Lawang and Medan, it was a relief that really NOBODY tried to overcharge or push me for almost a week. It's pleasantly cool, situated in the highlands, there's beautiful scenery with brilliant (day-)hiking options around the volcano's and villages.

Despite the numers of visitors, the local community is still enthousiastic, friendly and helpful.
The rich Karo markets are also a must and you can check out Karo architecture, although the ancient lifestyle seems to be replaced by modern standards. Some guesthouses like Wisma Sibayak are excellent places to meet other traveller's and to obtain all info you'll need.

I really enjoyed my stay so Berastagi is a place I can heartily recommend a visit !

Last visit to Berastagi: Jul 2002
Intro Updated Jul 15, 2003
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Reviews (18)

Kids are fond of poffertjes everywhere on earth - Berastagi

The Poffertjes man Favorites (6)

When walking around the village of Gurusinga, suddenly the "poffertjes" man arrived on his bicycle! Poffertjes are... more travel advice

Karo Lady with Dutch Sunglasses on her... Favorites (6)

Travelling by local transport - f.e. bemo -always gives great opportunities to meet and observe local people in a... more travel advice

Tremendous heat and too much light in Dolok at 1pm - Berastagi

The Corrupted Donation Book in Dolok... Tourist Traps (2)

A very funny - because it's so obvious -, but sneaky trick is the donation book. While a donation of about Rp 3000... more travel advice

Incredible ancient Karo House with sattelite TV - Berastagi

The Traditional Karo Houses (Dokan... Things to Do (10)

The traditional Karo houses are remarkable complex structures that are constructed without the use of any metal. You... more travel advice

Comments (10)

ExGuyParis Jan 23, 2006 at 7:51 AM Report Abuse

I love your "lunch on the top of the world" photo. Your excellent pictures and descriptions really offer a sense of the spirit of this place. Great page!
lizma Jun 16, 2005 at 7:28 AM Report Abuse

i like the volcanoes photos ,they are looks amazing
Bwana_Brown Oct 26, 2004 at 7:32 PM Report Abuse

A very entertaining page with great views into everyday life here! Whew, fantatic views from atop Mt. Sinabung - what a reward for the climb! Being right down into Sibayak crater would be mind-altering too!!
globerover Jan 10, 2004 at 2:34 AM Report Abuse

it is obvious that you know how to travel, in particular off the beaten tourist paths; most useful tips and some stunning pictures; btw the donation book with added "0"s reminds me of the Parmalat book-keeping :-)))
herzog63 Jul 15, 2003 at 1:34 PM Report Abuse

I've seen those Rip-off donation books a few times myself! It's too bad about the bus experience! I had some fun experiences with Betul Nut chewing old women! LOL Another Exciting page!!
Sharrie Jun 18, 2003 at 3:47 AM Report Abuse

U know what, I've been here countless times, but never to G. Sinabung! Looks fascinating!
daddygila May 26, 2003 at 3:04 PM Report Abuse

I agree with your impressions of Berastagi. great cool little town. I also jumped off in Dokan. Brought back memories.
Canadienne Apr 26, 2003 at 11:07 AM Report Abuse

I wasn't familiar with Berastagi before. . .this is a great introduction. :-) Those school kids are adorable.
funkymama Oct 29, 2002 at 3:00 AM Report Abuse

Great page and pix about this wonderful country.
Irine_29 Oct 29, 2002 at 2:24 AM Report Abuse

again, enjoyable and precise reading for a not so touristic part of Indonesia. lovely cow photo :-)