Lake Toba Indonesia – Best Hotels to Stay in All the Price Ranges

A place where you come for a week and stay for a month, Lake Toba’s fresh mountain air, friendly locals and breathtaking scenery captivate visitors almost immediately. Knowing where to rest your head after a long day of trekking or swimming in the gorgeous, volcanically-heated lake is an important aspect of any holiday.

Where to look for accommodation

Accommodation in Lake Toba is mainly scattered around the small town of Tuk-Tuk with only a couple of other inns and guest houses located in the smaller nearby towns. We recommend that travellers book well in advance should they wish to visit Lake Toba during the Chinese New Year that occurs in February as places fill up quickly and triple in price. Fortunately accommodation prices in Lake Toba are mostly very affordable and depending on one’s budget will cater to the needs of many diverse preferences. Below are a list of our favourite spots in Lake Toba arranged from budget-friendly prices all the way to the more luxurious options that naturally come with a steeper price tag.

Budget accommodation in Lake Toba

1. Romlan

Cheap as chips! This budget-friendly backpacker haven has been delighting travellers for years and is frequently booked up well ahead of the dates. Within the guest house itself there are 12 rooms and 2 separate Batak-style cottages all which have stunning lakeside views and their own private hot-water bathrooms. Balcony and sun terraces are available in certain rooms too. Offering excellent value for money with Wi-Fi throughout the property, bike rental options, an on-site restaurant and a warm and welcoming host; there’s a reason why Romlan’s is constantly full of happy guests. We thoroughly enjoyed taking a morning dip off the private dock after breakfast each morning. Prices begin at IDR 85,000 and only go upwards to IDR 120,000.

Located in Ambarita, around 10 kilometres form Parapat.

2. Laster Jony’s

Ahh, Laster Jony’s, what a treat! This spot in Tuk-Tuk comes highly recommend, not only for its excellent location, but mostly for its warm and welcoming staff, delicious continental breakfast, and barbecue facilities. Guests can relax in the cosy, shared lounge, read a book in the garden or simply have a scrumptious meal at the on-site restaurant. All rooms come with either a lake, mountain or garden view; have a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. Nightly rates at Laster Jony’s are IDR 80,000 for a budget double room, IDR 150,000 for a deluxe room, and IDR 300,000 for a family room.

3. Mas Cottages

Although Mas Cottages are looking a little rough around the edges these days, they are located right on the water’s edge and offer spectacular views from the second you open your eyes in the morning. With the cottages being styled in the traditional Bataknese design, the sun loungers on your private terrace, and the delicious on-site restaurant; it’s easy to look over the initially perceived defects and shortcomings. Simple, rustic rooms; hot-water bathrooms and even massage services are available upon request; these cottages in Tuk-Tuk are diamonds in the rough. A standard room can come as cheap as IDR 225,000 for the night.

4. Bagus Bay Homestay

Situated right next to the lake, this homestay is a great choice for travellers who are looking to have their cake and eat it too. Equipped with free kayaks, a pool table, and a volleyball court; travellers will have no shortage of ways to keep entertained. The charming, wooden restaurant give Bagus Bay Homestay a warm and inviting feel and we really enjoyed the traditional Batak dancing that is performed here on Saturday and Wednesday nights. Rooms with squat toilets can start from as little as IDR 70,000 and can go up to IDR 190,000 for hot-water, Western toilets and a view.

Mid-range accommodation in Lake Toba

5. Toba Village Inn

With the breathtaking views of the lake and of the stunning Pusuk Buhit Mountain, Toba Village Inn is something of an oasis for the mind, body and soul. The natural landscape has been designed to blend harmoniously with an outdoor pool, a restaurant serving Indonesian and international cuisine, and rustically decorated rooms. We loved sipping our morning coffee from the comfort of our own balcony while looking at the mist-capped mountains in the distance. All rooms have a private hot-water bathroom, a flat-screen TV, a balcony, a terrace, free toiletries and a comfortable seating area to relax in. Rates range between IDR 500,000 and IDR 800,000 for the night and the property is located in the popular area of Tuk-Tuk.

6. Gokhon Guesthouse

Priced at budget prices but with mid-range amenities, Gokhon’s is an absolute steal for those wanting comfort without the increase in price. A special place in Lake Toba, this guesthouse offers all its guests a view of the lake, mountain or garden; and all rooms come with a private balcony and sun terrace to relax on. We loved the location of Gokhon’s with its view overlooking the lake and the short distances to many wonderful restaurants. Be sure to grab a dinner at Jenny’s Restaurant only a short distance away for an unforgettable meal and dining experience. Rates start at an unbelievably cheap, IDR 225,000 for the night.

7. Dginn Café and Bar

Location, location, location! Superbly located in the heart of the action in Tuk-Tuk, Dginn’s offers its guests great value for money. Rooms have a stunning view, with a terrace or balcony; a flat-screen TV; spacious, clean bathrooms; an on-site bar and restaurant; and extremely helpful and informative staff members. Within easy walking distance to Lake Toba’s culinary scene, night life and markets; Dginn Café and Bar is a great spot for travellers in Lake Toba. Rates vary between at IDR 495,000 and IDR 600,000.

8. Judita Cottages

Our top highlights of these charming cottages would have to be the scrumptious complimentary breakfast, barbecue facilities and truly breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. Situated in Tuk-Tuk, the accommodation offers its guests bike rental, satellite TV channels, an on-site shop and restaurant, and some rooms even have a private and comfortable seating area. Room rates vary quite considerable with a single room costing IDR 250,000, a double room costing around IDR 500,000, and a family room costing IDR 800,000.

High-end accommodation in Lake Toba

9. Taman Simalem Resort

Perfect for couples, families and even business professionals looking for a weekend of team-building with their staff members. Located in Tongging, this luxurious resort offers jaw-dropping views of the natural scenery, an immaculately manicured golf course, and stunning bedrooms that are spacious, light and beautifully furnished. Guests can keep entertained by visiting the nearby waterfall, dining at the on-site restaurant or even engaging in a bit of archery and fun obstacle courses. For those travelling with little ones, Taman Simalem Resort offers pony rides, nature art, bonfires in the evenings, and small bunnies that can be petted and fed. Room rates start from IDR 2,000,000.

10. Hotel Carolina

Situated at the end of a quiet road that is filled with lush, tropical foliage and trees, Hotel Carolina is nestled alongside the beautiful shores of Lake Toba. The hotel boasts a private beach where guests can relax, swim, jump off the diving board, and even have a go at catching fish. Water scooters, boat rides, tours, dining on the private beach, motorbike rental, and all transfers can all be arranged by the friendly and accommodating staff. Our favourite highlights of this hotel were the Bataknese-style restaurant with a veranda overlooking the water, and the luxury rooms by the lake with the stunning bathtubs. A deluxe room with a sea view starts at IDR 500,000 for the night.