Travel Tips
New Year's Eve at Lake Toba: Trip Planning and Car Rental
The end of the year is Lake Toba's busiest season. When to book, how to avoid ferry queues and tips for travelling at peak times.
By Medan Rent Car Team
2 min read
Spending New Year's Eve on the shores of Lake Toba is a dream for many families. But late December is the busiest season: accommodation is full, ferry queues are long and the Medan–Parapat road is congested.
When to book
- Rental car: ideally several weeks in advance
- Accommodation: even earlier
- Ajibata–Samosir ferry: check the latest schedule and rules close to departure
Avoiding the crowds
- Leave Medan very early, or a few days before the 31st.
- If staying on Samosir, cross before the peak.
- Return after the 1st or 2nd, not on the same day as most travellers.
Where to stay
- Parapat: close to the harbour, with a lively town atmosphere
- Tuktuk, Samosir: more relaxed, but needs a ferry
- Balige: an alternative that is usually a little quieter
Safety
New Year celebrations often involve fireworks and crowds. Avoid driving late at night after staying up. Let the driver get enough rest before the journey home.
Ready to go?
Choose your dates and vehicle on the reservation page. Before booking, read how to choose a trustworthy car rental.
Frequently asked questions
When should I book a car for New Year at Toba?
Several weeks in advance, as demand is very high.
How can I avoid ferry queues?
Cross before the peak and return after the 1st or 2nd.
