Belawan

Kolam Abadi is the kind of swimming hole Indiana Jones might stumble upon, minus the snakes and booby traps-or at least fewer snakes. Hidden deep within Langkat Regency's jungle fringe, this secret freshwater haven shimmers like an emerald-tinted cocktail served up by Mother Nature herself. Legend claims it's enchanted, but honestly, the only magic needed here is luck in avoiding tourist hordes. Set your alarm obnoxiously early-around sunrise is best-to enjoy the pristine pools in monkish solitude before Instagram influencers invade. Wear something decidedly unfashionable yet practical; sturdy sandals and quick-dry clothes suffice, unless you're aiming for an impromptu jungle catwalk. A modest 100,000 rupiah (around seven bucks) slips easily from your pocket as an entrance fee and a tip for your local guide. Pack water, snacks, and a waterproof bag, and mentally prepare for leeches with all the grace you can muster. Sure, you might slip on moss-covered rocks or come face-to-face with some overly curious wildlife, but isn't a glorious swim in a hidden paradise worth a bruise or two-and perhaps even a memorable scar with an equally memorable backstory?

If you've ever fancied yourself an Indiana Jones type (minus the whip-though I wouldn't judge), Tangkahan Jungle Trekking in Langkat Regency is your chance to dive neck-deep into the thick of the Sumatran wilderness. Known as the hidden gem of North Sumatra, Tangkahan cleverly swapped illegal logging for eco-tourism-sort of like a poacher ditching his rifle for binoculars and khakis. Now, you can tramp through dense foliage in morning coolness (start early-around 7 a.m.-to dodge the worst humidity and tantrum-prone afternoon heat), occasionally interrupted by the trumpet blasts of rescued elephants who, let's admit, have seen some things and rightly eye tourists with a touch of disdain. Budget about $50-$80 a day, and book at least a week or two ahead to secure one of the more ethical elephant rides-though I'd consider simply strolling alongside these magnificent beasts as they lumber along far superior. Pack mosquito repellent, sturdy boots, extra socks, and above all, humility: you're the outsider here, and the jungle loves nothing more than spoiling human vanity (leeches, anyone?). Even with sweaty discomfort and questionable smells, the sheer adventure and knowing you're supporting conservation over destruction makes it worthwhile. Plus, you'll return home richer in mosquito bites, elephant anecdotes, and a lifetime's worth of insufferable cocktail-party storytelling.

There aren't many places on Earth where you can casually sleep inside the caldera of a supervolcano without a twinge of existential angst, but a Lake Toba overnight trip grants precisely such reckless bravado. Located in the lush, underrated heart of Sumatra, this colossal volcanic lake-the planet's largest-was formed by an eruption so apocalyptically huge that it nearly wiped out early humankind. (A cheery bedtime anecdote, naturally.) Today, the Batak people wisely make peace with existential uncertainty through soulful music, grilled lake fish seasoned to fiery perfection, and rice wine strong enough to recalibrate your sense of gravity. Aim to arrive on Samosir Island by late afternoon to catch a gloriously psychedelic sunset over cobalt waters, and book accommodations at least a week ahead to secure choice lakefront bungalows for under $25 a night. Pack insect repellent, cash (because ATMs here are as elusive as punctual ferries), and an open mind-local storytelling is delightfully candid. Come for the volcanic drama, stay for the irreverent conversations around crackling bonfires, and if nothing else, you'll return home with bragging rights as someone who dared sleep atop nature's ticking geological time bomb.