10-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip from Aceh to Padang: Nature & Culture

Day 1: Arrive in Aceh

Banda Aceh, Indonesia

9:00AM

Visit the Tsunami Museum

Start your adventure by diving into Banda Aceh's poignant history at the Tsunami Museum, which gives an in-depth insight into the devastating 2004 tsunami.
Located in the city centre, take a short car ride.
IDR 50,000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at the Aceh Restaurant

Savour local dishes like Nasi Goreng Aceh and Ayam Penyet at this well-loved restaurant.
Just a 10-minute drive from the Tsunami Museum.
IDR 150,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Great Mosque of Banda Aceh

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this historical mosque, a symbol of resilience and beauty.
A short 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stroll along Ulee Lheue Beach

Relax and enjoy the gentle sea breeze while the children play on the sandy beach.
About a 15-minute drive from the mosque.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kuta Roti

End your day with some delicious roti canai and local curry at this family-friendly eatery.
A short drive back to the city centre.
IDR 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Island Adventures

Sabang, Indonesia

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before making your way to Sabang, located on Weh Island, known for its stunning beaches and marine life.
Check out from the hotel and take a ferry from Banda Aceh to Sabang.
IDR 120,000, 1 hour ferry

10:00AM

Snorkelling at Rubiah Island

Explore the vibrant underwater world, perfect for families wanting to see exotic fish.
A short boat ride from Sabang.
IDR 200,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Roti Island

Refuel with light meals and drinks overlooking the beautiful sea.
Return to Sabang for lunch.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gua Sarang

Explore these historical caves - a great adventure for the kids.
Located 30 mins drive from Sabang.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seulawah Restaurant

Enjoy local fare while gazing at the sunset over the ocean.
Back in Sabang town.
IDR 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Return to Banda Aceh

Banda Aceh, Indonesia

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with breakfast before heading back to Banda Aceh.
Take a ferry back to Banda Aceh.
IDR 120,000, 1 hour ferry

10:00AM

Visit Aceh Museum

Discover the local history and culture through various exhibits and artefacts.
A short drive from the ferry terminal.
IDR 30,000, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taman Sari Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Acehnese dishes in a traditional atmosphere.
Located near the museum.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Indra Patra Fortress

Wander through this historical site and learn about Aceh's past.
A 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk around Leungbata Park

Relax and enjoy the park while children can run and play.
Close to the fortress.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Amsterdam Café

End your day with a laid-back dining experience featuring a mix of western and local dishes.
Drive back to Banda Aceh city centre.
IDR 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Journey to Lake Toba

Lake Toba, Indonesia

7:00AM

Early breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a quick breakfast before your drive to Lake Toba.
Start your drive early to cover the distance of approximately 380 km.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Scenic Stop at Sipisopiso Waterfall

Take in the breathtaking views of the tallest waterfall in North Sumatra- a must-see.
Located along the route, a 30-minute stop over.
IDR 20,000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Arrive at Lake Toba, lunch at Tabo Cottages

Relax and have lunch with a view overlooking the stunning lake.
Check in to your hotel after lunch.
IDR 150,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Boat trip to Samosir Island

Explore the culture of the Batak people and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
Boat departures from a nearby port.
IDR 100,000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Samosir Restaurant

Enjoy local Batak dishes as you soak up the stunning sunset views.
Back to the main island by boat.
IDR 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion in Berastagi

Berastagi, Indonesia

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with breakfast, then embark on a picturesque drive to Berastagi.
Check out from Lake Toba; it’s about 66 km to Berastagi.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Gundaling Hill

Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and volcanic mountains.
Located close to Berastagi town.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Berastagi Restaurant

Indulge in traditional Karo dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Short drive from Gundaling Hill.
IDR 120,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Local Fruit Market

Experience the vibrant local culture and try fresh fruits like passion fruit and durian.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Maimun Palace

Visit this historic site and learn about the rich heritage of the Karo people.
Drive to nearby Medan.
IDR 10,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Karo Food Centre

Relish smoked fish and local specialties to wrap up an adventurous day.
Head back towards Berastagi.
IDR 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Nature Exploration in Bukittinggi

Bukittinggi, Indonesia

7:00AM

Early breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before continuing your journey to Bukittinggi.
Drive the roughly 90 km to Bukittinggi.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fort de Kock

Explore this historic fort that offers great views over Bukittinggi.
Located in the city.
IDR 15,000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Walk around the Traditional Market

Experience local foods, crafts, and Pasar Atas, where the culture comes alive.
A short walk from the fort.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restoran Sederhana

Enjoy Minangkabau cuisine including their famous rendang dish.
Close to the market.
IDR 130,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Jam Gadang

Explore the iconic clock tower and enjoy taking family photos around it.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Nasi Kapau

Try a variety of Minangkabau specialities in a casual family-friendly setting.
Visit this restaurant near Jam Gadang.
IDR 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Adventure at Harau Valley

Harau Valley, Indonesia

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for a day of adventure with breakfast before heading to Harau Valley.
Drive about 60 km to the valleys, through lush landscapes.
IDR 100,000, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Hiking at Harau Valley

Explore the natural beauty and waterfalls of the valley on kid-friendly trails.
Explore designated hiking paths.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Harau

Refuel with light meals in a scenic environment.
Located nearby within the valley.
IDR 120,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Waterfalls

Visit some picturesque waterfalls perfect for a family photo opportunity.
Continue hiking in the valley.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Head back to Bukittinggi for Dinner at D'Cost Restaurant

Savour seafood dishes in a casual setting to finish the adventurous day.
Return drive back to Bukittinggi.
IDR 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Discover Sianok Canyon

Sianok Canyon, Indonesia

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before stepping out to explore the remarkable Sianok Canyon.
Drive just outside of Bukittinggi, around 15 minutes.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Sianok Canyon

Take a walk along the stunning canyon and capture family memories amidst the breathtaking views.
Hiking trails are available along the canyon.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Tea Break at a Local Cafe

Enjoy some local snacks and a refreshing drink while overlooking the canyon.
Head to a nearby café.
IDR 60,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Warung Kecil

Taste authentic Minangkabau flavours in a relaxed café setting.
Head back towards the centre of Bukittinggi.
IDR 120,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Japanese Tunnel

Learn about the historical significance of these tunnels during World War II.
A short drive from the restaurant.
IDR 15,000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restoran Bundo Kanduang

End your day with comforting local dishes in a family-friendly setting.
Close to the Japanese Tunnel.
IDR 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: The Final Destination to Padang

Padang, Indonesia

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Savour breakfast before heading out to Padang, the culinary capital of Indonesia.
Drive about 90 km to Padang.
IDR 100,000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Siti Nurbaya Bridge

Cross this iconic bridge while enjoying beautiful river views.
Heading towards the riverbank.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Karambia Restaurant

Enjoy Padang specialities like rendang and sambal with rice.
Located near the bridge.
IDR 150,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Adityawarman Museum

Discover the cultural heritage of West Sumatra through engaging displays.
Less than 15 minutes from the restaurant.
IDR 20,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Padang Beach

Relax on the beach and let the children enjoy the sandy shores.
A 30-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sederhana Restaurant

Celebrate your trip with a delicious dinner featuring the famed Padang cuisine.
Located back in the city centre.
IDR 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Relaxation and Departure

Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on your adventure.
Prepare for your journey to Mentawai Islands.
IDR 100,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry to Mentawai Islands

Leave for the Mentawai Islands; famous for their stunning beaches and surf spots.
Departure from Padang's harbour.
IDR 200,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Warung in Mentawai

Taste local flavours while enjoying the tropical surroundings.
Find a family-friendly spot on the island.
IDR 120,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Beach Time and Water Activities

Relax on the beaches or engage in fun water activities suitable for the whole family.
Choose a beach accessible from your accommodation.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the Resort

Savour a calming dinner at your resort while reminiscing about your fantastic journey.
Back to your accommodation.
IDR 200,000, 1.5 hours
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