Best Time To Visit Northern Sumatra
Track the Orangutans of Northern Sumatra through pristine rainforests...
Northern Sumatra is a land of volcanoes and lakes, thick virgin forests and lush vegetation, lined with idyllic sandy beaches. Its cultural diversity, with its variety of beliefs, religions and traditional customs, make it a paradise for nature lovers and social scientists alike. Travel in Northern Sumatra is possible year round, although January and February are the wettest months and not the best time to visit Sumatra.
Climate
Its equatorial location means Northern Sumatra is hot and tropical. The dry season is between May and September (still with occasional tropical downpours) and the wet season is between October and April. However there are still plenty of dry spells in the wet season and a holiday at this time could be favourable, missing the tourism peak.
January and February tend to be the wettest months when travel plans on minor roads might be affected.
As with most tropical destinations, sudden changes in weather conditions are likely; so make sure you’re always prepared. But don’t let this put you off; a nice tropical shower can be just what you need in the heat.
Wildlife
Orang-utan: Sumatra is home to about 10% of the worlds Orang-utans. These magnificent primates are best seen in the summer months between March and October while the trees are fruiting, as they come lower to the forest floor to feast. It is worth noting that these months may be busy, particularly from June to July.
Festivals and Events
Northern Sumatra has a number of lively festivals, a cultural must for visitors!
Ramadan Fair
1 January New Year’s Day. New Year’s Eve is celebrated with street carnivals, shows, fireworks and all night parties! People visit family and friends on New Years Day
August Independence Day. The most important national holiday. Celebrated with dancing, processions and parades. Independence Day is officially on the 17th of August, however festivities and merry making continue for a whole month.
Aug/Sept Ramadan Fair. An annual government organised festival held in Medan during the Fasting month to celebrate Hari Raya Lebaran. Lots of souvenirs and spicy foods on offer!
Visitors are welcome to join in with festivities but should always observe religious and private gatherings from a respectful distance, unless invited to join in!
Public Holidays
New Years Day (Jan 1), Good Friday (Mar/Apr), Nyepi (Mar/Apr), Women’s Day (21 Apr), Muslim New Year (Apr), Waisak Day (May), Ascension Day (May), Garebeg Maulud, The Birth of The Prophet (Jun), Indonesian Independence Day (Aug 17), Beginning of Ramadan (Jul/Aug), End of Ramadan (Aug/Sept), Christmas Day (25 Dec)
Please note that religious festivals should be observed from a respectful distance unless you are invited to join in.
Costs
Flight costs tend to increase over Christmas. Park fees remain the same year round.
Get in Touch
To speak to our specialist in this region please call or email: sales@worldprimatesafaris.com
Tel: 0044 (0) 1273 691 642
US Toll Free: 1866 357 6569
Plan your holiday in Northern Sumatra
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* We are an independent, fully-bonded UK tour operator run by former safari guides. Find out more about us.
