NINNA.ID-Traveling to Lake Toba on a budget is totally possible! With some planning and research, you can enjoy the stunning nature and rich culture of Samosir Island without spending too much. Here’s a complete guide to exploring Lake Toba affordably.
If you’re traveling from Medan, there are several ways to reach Parapat, the main gateway to Samosir Island. The cheapest option is taking a bus, which costs around Rp65,000 per person. Some bus options include Bus Sejahtera, Parisma, and Sampri.
Once in Parapat, you have two ferry options to Samosir:
- Pelabuhan Tiga Raja (Tiga Raja Port) – If you’re heading to TukTuk, take a boat from here for Rp20,000.
- Pelabuhan Ajibata (Ajibata Port) – A cheaper option with more frequent departures, usually every hour, heading to Tomok.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Samosir has plenty of affordable places to stay, including homestays and budget hotels.
- Homestays offer a cozy stay with locals and cost around Rp150,000 per person if you share a room.
- Budget hotels range from Rp250,000 to Rp300,000 per night. It’s best to book in advance for better deals.
One recommended homestay is Jabu SiRulo, which is known for being affordable and comfortable.
Free & Low-Cost Attractions in Samosir
Samosir is called the “Paradise on Earth” for a reason! The island is surrounded by green hills, part of the majestic Bukit Barisan mountain range. Almost every corner offers breathtaking views, perfect for photography lovers.
Here are some free and low-cost attractions:
- Free attractions:
- Enjoying the lake views from anywhere on the island
- Visiting local villages and seeing traditional Batak houses
- Paid attractions:
- Holbung Hill & Mount Pusuk Buhit – For stunning views from above
- Batu Hoda– Quiet beaches with a relaxing atmosphere
- Hutaraja & Huta Siallagan Villages – Learn about Batak culture and traditional Ulos weaving
- Nai Sogop Waterfall and Efrata Waterfall
- Aek Natonang & Sidihoni Lakes – Hidden natural gems
Other must-visit spots include Tomok Market, Bukit Burung, Bukit Sibea-bea, Tele Viewing Tower, and Pangururan Waterfront City.
If you want to explore more, renting a motorbike costs around Rp100,000-130,000 per day.
Saving Money on Food
Food in Samosir is quite affordable:
- Local food stalls offer meals for Rp25,000-30,000 per dish.
- To save more, buy food from traditional markets or small warungs.
Estimated Budget for 3 Days & 2 Nights
Here’s a cost breakdown for a budget trip to Samosir:
| Expense | Cost |
| Bus (Medan-Parapat, round trip) | Rp130,000 |
| Ferry (round trip) | Rp40,000 |
| Homestay (2 nights) | Rp600,000 |
| Motorbike rental (2 days, optional) | Rp200,000 |
| Food (3 meals/day for 3 days) | Rp270,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | Rp1,240,000 |
Traveling with friends? You can split accommodation and transport costs to save even more!
Backpacking to Lake Toba on a budget is totally doable! With affordable transport, budget-friendly stays, free attractions, and cheap eats, you can have an amazing trip without breaking the bank.
Ready to explore Lake Toba on a budget?
Writer/Editor: Damayanti Sinaga
