• Following the group pick up at Medan International Airport, we transfer by charter tourist class bus to the cool volcanic highlands of central Sumatra. At 473,605 sq. km, Sumatra is the world’s sixth largest island. It straddles the Equator, has the greatest botanical diversity and the greatest concentration of volcanoes in the world.

• On our drive to Berastagi, we will stop for a picnic lunch beside a clear mountain stream to learn about the rich macro-invertebrate life of the waterway using various collecting methods. Armed with dip nets, specimen trays and magnifying lenses, student teams will challenge one another to see who can collect and properly identify the most species. It’s an engaging and fun activity.

• Arriving in Berastagi at sunset time, we climb a hill overlooking the Berastagi Valley for stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. We should witness a flaming sunset while enjoying horse and buggy rides around the hilltop park.

• A great Batak Karo welcome feast awaits us at our lodge on the slopes of Sibaya Volcano. Traditional local delicacies will showcase the wonderful array of foods produced in the rich volcanic soils of this region. Following dinner, traditional Batak Karo songs and dances will offer us keen insights into the sophistication of this ancient central Sumatran civilization.

Overnight: Mout Sibaya Multinational Guest House