Central Sumatra, Indonesia

Central Sumatra's Bukittinggi sits in the Minangkabau highlands of horn-roofed houses, Padang opens to Indian Ocean surf, and the Mentawai Islands hold legendary right-hand reef breaks of Macaronis and Lance's Right.

Highlights

When to Visit

Apr-Oct

Drier season with Mentawai surf at peak, Bukittinggi's Jam Gadang clock tower walking comfortable, and Lake Maninjau crater visits running.

Jun-Sep

Mentawai surf season at peak with the southern hemisphere swell window, and Padang's surf charters running full booking through the Macaronis pass.

Nov-Mar

Wet season with afternoon storms, Mentawai surf still active but boats less reliable, and Padang's beaches less swimmable in monsoon swell.

May

Tabuik Festival in Pariaman the country's most striking Shia commemoration, with elaborate effigies paraded through the surf to the Indian Ocean.