Samosir Island is perfect for hiking and trail running. But you need the right route. Many think the ring road is the only option. It offers amazing views of Lake Toba and the surrounding mountains, but you share it with cars and scooters.
Fortunately, Samosir has many hidden trails. This guide describes an 18 km trekking route around Tuk Tuk and Ambarita. I completed it as a trail run – though uphill parts turned into hiking. The route has three climbs and can start anywhere in Tuk Tuk or Ambarita. Of course, I began at Hotel Barbara.
Practical Information and download for this route
- Starting from another location? Walk to Mario’s Café and follow the trail from there.
- No food or drinks available during the climbs. Bring a full bottle and enough snacks.
- Download the GPS route for hiking apps.
Why Choose This Route?
- Scenic views of Lake Toba from multiple points.
- Mix of asphalt roads, jungle trails, and village paths.
- Great for trail runners, hikers, and trekkers looking for a challenge.
First Climb: Tuk Tuk Hills
The first kilometers follow the main road – the only flat section. Perfect for warming up. At Ambarita, turn left toward Tuk Tuk. The road becomes hillier. After Mario’s Café, leave the asphalt and start climbing.
Halfway, you pass a small coffee shop but keep moving. The climb is steady, reaching about 80 meters above Lake Toba. Skip the viewpoint if you want to save energy. A narrow downhill trail leads to the other side of Tuk Tuk.
Second Climb: Hidden Trail Behind the Main Road
Back on Tuk Tuk’s main road, I refill my bottle with Teh Botol, Indonesia’s famous iced tea. Then I cross to a hidden hiking trail behind the road.
The climb passes authentic Batak villages and even a small church. It gets steeper but rewards with epic views: Lake Toba, Tuk Tuk, and surrounding hills – all from 100 meters above.
Third Climb: Through Kampung Unjur
Near Ambarita, the path drops to the main road again. Past the local school, I head into the hills. Traditional Batak houses line the path.
At Kampung Unjur, I take a steeper route uphill. Four barking dogs greet me – common in Samosir villages – but a farmer waves me on. Beyond, fields of rice, corn, and cacao stretch across the slopes.
Return to Hotel Barbara
I follow a side trail back toward Getsemane Park, then descend terrace by terrace through old rice fields. At the park, I make a small donation.
From there, it’s less than 100 meters to Hotel Barbara. I finish the hike exhausted but happy – and reward myself with another Teh Botol.
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