Leona’s 4D3N Escape to Lake Toba: The largest volcanic lake in the world
Looking for a long weekend that feels like a real escape? For Malaysian content creator Kasih Iris Leona, a 4D3N getaway with AirAsia MOVE to Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Indonesia brings unforgettable experience.
Set within the world’s largest volcanic caldera, Lake Toba spans approximately 1,130 square kilometres in area, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption around 74,000 years ago. At its centre lies Samosir Island, a cultural heartland of the Batak people.
The surrounding Toba Caldera UNESCO Global Geopark, further highlights the area’s remarkable geological significance while supporting conservation and sustainable tourism.
“Lake Toba was more than just a beautiful destination, it was a truly unforgettable experience that gave me a chance to reconnect with nature, culture and myself,” said Leona, the Pisces traveller and content creator with over 1,3 million followers on TikTok.
From island scenery and local culture to outdoor adventures, here’s how to make the most of four days around one of Indonesia’s most iconic destinations.
DAY 1 — From Medan to Samosir
The journey begins with an AirAsia flight into Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) in Medan, followed by a scenic 4–5-hour drive towards Parapat, then board a ferry across Lake Toba to Samosir Island.
“From the moment we crossed from Parapat to Samosir, the changing scenery made the journey feel like part of the experience. Watching the sunset with the mountains and open water all around was definitely one of my favourite moments in Lake Toba,” Leona recalled.
Set in the heart of Lake Toba, Samosir Island is a vast volcanic island surrounded by dramatic landscapes and sweeping views of the freshwater lake. From the moment you arrive, the island offers a slower pace and plenty of opportunities to take in its natural beauty.
First stop is Tomok Village, where local handicrafts and Ulos, the traditional woven textile of the Batak people, offer a first glimpse into Samosir’s cultural character. Take your time exploring the market, then catch a Sigale-gale dance performance, where visitors can also take part and learn more about the tradition surrounding the wooden puppet that has become an enduring symbol of Batak culture.
DAY 2 — Discover the other side of Samosir
Day two is when the adventure really gets going. Start at Bukit Holbung, where green hills unfold towards Lake Toba in one of the island’s most beautiful landscapes.
Leona looked back on the trip and commented, “Bukit Holbung was one of those places where I just wanted to stop, take it all in and forget about the camera for a while. The view of Lake Toba from up there was absolutely breathtaking.”
From there, continue to Bukit Cinta, where a striking 61-metre-high statue of Jesus Christ overlooks Lake Toba. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the lake and island, the statue reflects the strong Christian heritage of the local community. Fun fact: the statue stands taller than Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro! For a closer look, continue to Bukit Sibea-bea, where you can see the statue up close.
For a change of pace, head to Lake Sidihoni, often described as a “lake within an island” because of its location on Samosir itself. Its peaceful setting provides a quieter contrast to the dramatic hilltop views earlier in the day. Next, ahead to Sabana Nadeak, one of Lake Toba’s latest hidden gems. The wide-open highland landscape, framed by hills and greenery, offers plenty of room to simply take in the scenery.
End the scenic drive at Bukit Langgetua, where the surrounding hills and Lake Toba stretch out into a wide-open panorama. After a full day on the road, it’s a chance to slow down, take in the view and enjoy a quieter side of Samosir.
DAY 3 — Lake Toba, But Make It an Adventure
If the first two days are about taking in the landscape, day three turns up the energy. Start the morning on the water with jet skiing and parasailing around Lake Toba, taking in the vastness of the lake from a completely different perspective.
After the morning’s adventure, make your way towards the Toba Caldera area. Rather than heading back to Samosir, make the most of the location by staying overnight around the caldera area. It cuts down on travel time and gives you more time to enjoy the day at a slower pace. A natural fit for the night, Bobocabin Kaldera Toba combines the feeling of an outdoor escape with the comforts of a glamping experience.
“By the afternoon, we just slowed things down at the cabin, watching the sunset, having a BBQ and enjoying the evening together. After such an active day, it was the perfect way to unwind,” Leona shared.
Book your stay at Bobocabin Kaldera Toba on AirAsia MOVE, with prices starting from MYR135 per night, and make the most of your next long weekend.
DAY 4 — One Last Morning by the Lake
After a few days of road trips, viewpoints and outdoor adventures, the final morning is intentionally easy.
Enjoy some free time, take one last look at the scenery before heading back towards Kualanamu International Airport. Before leaving, make time for one last round of souvenirs, a piece of local keepsake to bring home.
Leona’s 4D3N itinerary shows why Lake Toba works so well for a short escape. For her, four days in Lake Toba felt like so much more.
“I came for the views, but left with memories I’ll be taking home with me.”
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