Sumatra, Indonesia - Trekking Packing List

Sumatra, Indonesia - Trekking Packing List

Sumatra - a captivating gem nestled in the Indonesian archipelago. 🌴🦧 Traverse through Gunung Leuser National Park, and watch the orangutans swinging gracefully through the treetops of Bukit Lawang. Be mesmerised by the harmony of Batak culture around Lake Toba, where dense rainforests hum with the vibrant symphony of wildlife, and misty highlands beckon adventurous souls like ourselves. This enchanting island unfolds like a tapestry of natural wonders. 🐅🐅🐅 My husband and I spent 2 weeks trekking around different areas of Sumatra, north and south back in 2019. We have a list of essential must visit locations, packing tips and various itineraries for you to peruse.
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The Sumatran jungles are full of wonder and excitement, from the anticipation of seeing the elusive Sumatran tiger, to watching the wildly enchanting orangutans swing above the trees. It is truly a magical place that feels untouched by tourists. We trekked through the jungles and hiked Mount Kerinci with amazing local guides who know the safest routes and where to get the best views.

Mount Kerinci
@lilschristensen
The 2nd highest, most active volcano in South East Asia!
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Trekking Essentials and Packing

1. Breatheable Shoes

A great pair of breatheable, light weight hiking boots. The jungle is a wet place so having a comfortable pair of boots that can dry out quickly but that can also deal with the uneven terrain is essential.

2. Light weight clothing

Opt for breatheable, moisture wicking clothing that covers your skin to protect from both insects and the sun. FYI you will need to tuck your trousers into your socks so the leeches don’t get your ankles! If they do get you, don’t pull them straight off, tip a small amount of salt on the site and they will painlessly fall off. Ladies leggings are not great as mosies can bite through them and they can be a pain to get on/off when your wet or sweaty!

3. Rain Gear

A durable rain jacket and waterproof trousers that will keep you cool and dry from a unexpected tropical downpour!

4. Insect repellents

Insect repellents, mosie nets, salt (for the pesky leeches!) to ward away any jungle critters.

5. Sun protection

Long sleeves, a hat/cap, sunnies and sun cream (make sure you check the bottles, and ensure they are safe to use that won’t harm the environment, they are some great biodegradable ones on the market!) I also wore a bandana, this was moisture wicking and protective as I managed to burn the back of my neck!

6. First Aid Kit

Include basic medical supplies, bandages, antiseptic cream and any other medication you may need.

7. Water Purification

Carry a water filter or purification tablets. We used “water to go” bottles and made sure we boiled enough water in the evenings to cool for the next day.

8. Torch and Head Lamp

Head torches and spare batteries, ensure you have one with a red light setting to use at night so you aren’t bitten mosies during those wild wees!

9. Dry Bag

Keep belongings dry by packing in waterproof bag especially if you’re crossing rivers or encountering rain which if you check the weather forecast is highly likely!

10. Portable Charger

Depending on how long you’re trekking for make sure you invest in a decent portable charger to ensure your devices are fully charged up especially if your relying on them for navigation.

If you found this guide helpful let me know! In the process of writing our Sumatran itineraries!

If you’d like further information or want help booking your trip you can also book a call with me.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Former flight attendant embracing slow travel, motherhood and sharing wanderlust 🫶🏼 I flew for an international airline for 6 years, married a Dane, and now have a baby boy, but that doesn’t stop us travelling the world. 📍🤍 I hope that my unique combination of experiences as a former flight attendant, slow living enthusiast, and a mother brings a distinct perspective to the travel content I share. 🌎 Those seeking a more mindful and purposeful approach to exploring the world then check out my guides or follow on Instagram @lils_christensen Any questions dm me or drop me an email Lilschristensen@outlook.com ✉️
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