4 Places to Visit in Berastagi

We took a minibus from the Pinang Baris bus terminal (read about that experience here) for 25,000 Rp each and arrived at the picturesque town of Berastagi, up in the Karo highlands, 70km from Medan.

There are few activities in the town of Berastagi that would cost a lot if you do not go through a tour agency.

1. Gunung Sibayak *recommended*

Prior to the trip I read reviews of others' climbs and was confident we could manage it, being somewhat fit (not really). However, I must say that if only for the convenience, do rent a motorcycle and do hire a guide (read of our 'exciting' roundabout trip here).

I highly recommend Raymond from Raymond's Cafe (near the tourist office). Although he's not with any agency and I'm not sure if he's an actual guide nor does he speak much English, his wife Julia can speak well enough to settle any questions or doubts beforehand.

Alternatively, you could get a proper guide from one of the tour agencies. We passed a small group of tourists on the way up and their guide had set up a tent to wait out the rain. Since we were on a budget and did not acquire such services, we pushed on in the rain (which wasn't really that bad).

While the climb is not treacherous or dangerous, it does require a certain level of fitness and stamina!

Along the way, you pass by spewing gas and smell the sulphur fumes (which, unfortunately, linger in your clothes and hair!).

2. Hot Springs near Gunung Sibayak

Our guide showed us the way to the hot springs after our trek in the rain. Since we were freezing from the ride in the rain, it was a welcome reprieve.

For the equivalent of perhaps S$1, and maybe another S$1 for parking our motorcycle, we had free run of all the pools the whole day.

The pools were filled with hot, natural spring water that was milky white and the place was not crowded in the late afternoon we were there. There was also an eatery which served hot drinks and fried noodles.

3. Gundaling Hill

Gundaling Hill, 2km out of Berastagi, offers fantastic sunset views looking towards Gunung Sinabung. With a motorcycle, the peak is a short ride from the town centre, beginning from the tourist office.

From late afternoon, locals gather at the peak whether to run their little stalls selling snacks, cup noodles, renting out blue canvas mats to visitors, or for a family outing to relax in the shade.

 Along the road leading to the peak, there are many stalls selling tourist souvenirs, food and clothing. For a small sum of money, you can go on a guided horse ride along the roads around the hill.

4. Sipiso-Piso Waterfalls

The entrance to the Sipiso-Piso waterfalls are fairly hidden. However, along the stretch of road alongside the entrance are restaurants selling meals and grilled corn and once you reach the end of the stretch of restaurants you know the entrance is near.

There is a narrow entrance proclaiming the waterfalls and it's a short 20 minute trek along a clear path which will lead you to the waterfalls.