More than a half of the area of Sumatra is rainforest which means everything to the world. The forest is listed as one of “The Lungs of the World.” Besides, it also the only home to the world’s most endangered animals including Sumatran tigers, Sumatran elephants, Sumatran rhinos and orangutans. Deep inside the jungle, the world’s most charismatic flowering plants, Rafflesia arnoldi and Amorphophallus titanium, flourish among big tress.
“Judging from the diverse ecoregion, Sumatra undoubtedly offers various thrilling activities.”
Landscape of the world’s sixth largest island is very complex. Forest can be found in every province within the island. Along the southeast to the northwest part is dominated by volcanoes which are known as Barisan Mountain range. Lowlands with swamp and complex river systems, meanwhile, is abundant in northeast. Stroll down to the coastal area and you’ll find fine deserted beaches.
Judging from the diverse ecoregion, Sumatra undoubtedly offers various thrilling activities. The forest offers great animal-spotting experience. Surfing is best done on the islands off the west coast while water area surrounding the northwest coast is perfect for diving. The Barisan Mountain provides extensive rock formation which is suitable for rock climbing. And for rafting, the northeast area is the right place.
As varied as the land, the people in Sumatra are a rich mix of several ethnic groups and religions. Devout Muslims reside mainly in Aceh province. Hedonistic Batak Christians dominate the area surrounding Toba lake, while the matrilineal Minangkabau center in west Sumatra.
Sumatra consists of ten provinces. However, below we just review Sumatra tourism in its seven popular ones: