Things To Do
in Berastagi
Berastagi is a cool-climate highland town in North Sumatra, set on the foothills of Sibayak and near Gunung Silason. It’s known for strawberry farms, fruit markets, and a gateway feel to the surrounding Karo highlands. The town blends Batak Karo culture with Indonesian hospitality, making it a pleasant base for day trips to volcanoes and waterfalls.
Expect a relaxed pace, misty mornings, and panoramic views over terraced fields and volcanic cones.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Berastagi, take some time to acclimate to the cool mountain air and enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a local café. Visit the local market to savor fresh tropical fruits like durian and rambutan, engaging with the friendly vendors. Stroll around and capture the stunning views of the surrounding hills and Mount Sinabung.
Explore the breathtaking Sipiso-piso Waterfall located 30 minutes away from Berastagi, which offers an impressive view of the waterfall cascading down from a height of 120 meters. Take a leisurely hike around the area to enjoy the lush greenery and rich biodiversity. Afterward, enjoy a late lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling traditional Indonesian dishes.
Return to Berastagi for a relaxed evening, where you can stroll through the town's vibrant streets. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local eatery, trying out the famous Nasi Goreng or Soto. End your day with a visit to a local café for dessert, indulging in some traditional sweets.
Start your day early with a guided trek up Mount Sibayak, a volcano known for its stunning crater and thermal springs. The hike offers a chance to experience the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at the summit while taking in the panoramic views.
After descending, treat yourself to a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot springs at the base of the mountain, perfect for relaxing your muscles after the hike. Enjoy a simple lunch at a nearby warung, sampling local specialties. Spend the afternoon visiting traditional villages and learning about the local culture.
Return to Berastagi for a calm evening, stroll through the streets, or shop for unique handicrafts. Have dinner at a restaurant known for its authentic Batak cuisine, experiencing flavors unique to the region. Relax at your accommodation and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥪Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🚎Local transit ride | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool climate and scenic highland landscapes
- Fertile markets with fresh fruit, especially strawberries
- Limited nightlife and some services may be basic
- Travel to Medan or other big hubs required for major healthcare or large-city amenities
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Maaf, bisa ulangi?" - Sorry, could you repeat?
Places to Visit in Berastagi
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunrise shots with the smoking cone of Sibayak and rolling highland terraces below—best early morning light.
Vibrant market scenes with colorful produce, flower stalls, and locals in daily routines—a lively street photography backdrop.
Photo-friendly patches of strawberry farms with the backdrop of green hills and cloud cover; great for wide-angle shots.
A popular overlook near Berastagi for panoramic shots of the town, farms, and distant volcanoes on clear days.
Food in Berastagi
Berastagi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Batak-style hand-cut noodles served in a rich coconut-milk sauce with meat and vegetables; a comforting, hearty bowl.
Must-Try!
Karo-style roasted pork with a smoky, spicy glaze; typically enjoyed with rice, vegetables, and sambal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main elevated market offering fresh fruit (notably strawberries), vegetables, herbs, and Batak snacks; great for people-watching and tasting fresh produce.
Seasonal fruit kiosks around town where you can buy ripe Berastagi strawberries and sample strawberry-based desserts and drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use polite language, especially with elders. When addressing people by title, use their name and honorifics.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas; shoulders and knees covered are respectful in many settings.
Show respect when offered food or drink; accept hospitality with gratitude. Use both hands when presenting or receiving items in formal contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Berastagi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants and cafés, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common. Hand tips discreetly and in cash where possible.
Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries. Some larger hotels and restaurants may accept debit/credit cards; always carry small notes for change and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny days with cool mornings and comfortable temperatures; great for hiking, market visits, and outdoor photography. Occasional mist can roll in from the hills, creating atmospheric shots.
Expect brief, heavy showers and frequent humidity; trails can be muddy but landscapes are lush. Bring a rain jacket; plan indoor activities during heavier rain periods.
Berastagi at Night
Hiking in Berastagi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Active crater volcano near Berastagi with a challenging but rewarding trek and crater views; best for sunrise hikes with a guide.
Accessible ridge walks offering panoramic valley views and photo-worthy landscapes; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Berastagi by plane.
Medan’s main international airport; about 2–3 hours by road from Berastagi depending on traffic. Connects to domestic and international destinations.
gateway for the Lake Toba region; closer to Berastagi than some options, though less frequent connections. Ground transfer to Berastagi is available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous highland community with distinct customs, language, and cuisine; a large and influential presence in Berastagi.
A mix including Javanese, Minangkabau, and other groups who live and work in town and on farms.
A seasonal flow of domestic and international travelers attracted by markets, hikes, and cool climate.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the area; casual matches and local leagues are common in town and schools.
A favored indoor/outdoor sport in community centers and cafés with courts and friendly competitions.
Common in schools and community gatherings; often played on beaches or in gyms during dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Berastagi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted: ask for vegetable-forward options, request no lard or meat broth, and enjoy local tofu and vegetable stir-fries. Share your dietary needs clearly in Indonesian (Saya seorang vegetarian).