Explore the untouched beauty of West Sumatra through a journey that takes you off-the-grid to some of its most enchanting accommodations.
From serene beachfront retreats to secluded jungle cabins, each destination offers a unique blend of natural splendor and cultural immersion.
Discover a side of Sumatra where lush landscapes, traditional hospitality, and unforgettable experiences await.
1. Sumatra Ecolodge
Address: South Teluk Kabung, Bungus Teluk Kabung, Padang City
Nestled along the seafront in Sungai Pisang, Sumatra Ecolodge offers a serene retreat with a private beach and lush gardens.
Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a restaurant, outdoor fireplace, and family-friendly accommodations with options like private terraces and sea-view balconies.
The lodge also provides a coffee shop, grocery delivery, and packed lunches. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities such as fishing and hiking, with car rental services available for exploring the area.
The friendly staff, including English-speaking hosts, ensure a memorable stay with personalised service and optional airport transfers from Minangkabau International Airport.
To book Sumatra Ecolodge, click here.
2. Padang Jungle Cabin River
Address: Batubusuk, Patamuan, Padang
Experience tranquillity at Padang Jungle Cabin River, nestled amidst lush forest and the calming sounds of nearby rivers.
This unique retreat offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, with remnants of Dutch colonial buildings and verdant durian orchards.
Accessible via four-wheeled vehicles from the airport to Batubusuk village, followed by a scenic 25-minute ride on two-wheeled vehicles to the cabin, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of valleys, rice fields, and pristine blue rivers along the way.
Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape away from city life.
3. Ricky’s Beach House
Address: Sungai Pinang, Koto XI Tarusan, South Pesisir Regency
Ricky’s Beach House offers a unique guesthouse experience on a secluded private beach.
It’s a short walk from Nagari Sungai Pinang, a charming fishing village on the southern coast of Padang, West Sumatra.
Known for its communal atmosphere, guests gather here to share travel stories and enjoy live acoustic music.
Accommodation includes three private bungalows with king-size beds, two family bungalows featuring mezzanine beds, and a larger house with interconnected private rooms.
Each unit is equipped with essentials like a double bed, mosquito net, fan, and a private Western-style bathroom.
Rates cover three daily meals combining Indonesian and Minangkabau flavors, often featuring fresh local fish.
Guests can access snorkeling gear, surfboards, and enjoy activities such as waterfall treks, rice field explorations, and jungle hikes.
Facilities include a communal restaurant, private beach access, guided island trips, surfing, snorkeling, fishing, woodcarving lessons, and a library for book exchanges.
Note that Ricky’s Beach House promotes a digital detox with no hot water or WiFi in the bungalows, though 3G internet via a Telkomsel key is available.
4. Teras Bumi Sikabu
Address: Tanjuang Haro Sikabu-Kabu Pondok Panjang, Luak, Lima Puluh Kota Regency
Teras Bumi Sikabu offers a serene retreat amidst rice fields. Guests can relax under the stars in a tranquil countryside setting, experiencing comfort combined with rustic charm.
Outdoor amenities include a fire pit for evening gatherings, an outdoor dining area, and a BBQ grill for cooking outdoors. On-site facilities feature free parking and a swimming pool for leisure activities.
5. Nyalo Beach Cottage
Address: Nyalo Beach Cottage, Nagari Sungai Nyalo Mudiic Air Kota IX Tarusan, Kabupaten Pesisir Selatan
Nyalo Beach Cottage offers more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to adventure and a haven for relaxation.
Perfect for family vacations, this accommodation provides a range of entertainment facilities to ensure a memorable stay.
Whether you’re exploring nearby attractions like Stasiun Tabing or Pulau Sirandah, or planning a longer getaway, Nyalo Beach Cottage promises comfort with excellent service akin to being at home.
With a 24-hour reception ready to assist with check-ins, check-outs, and any other needs, guests can enjoy peace of mind throughout their stay without breaking the bank.
6. Padi Ecolodge
Address: Jl. Binuang, Ngarai Sianok, Bukittinggi
Padi Ecolodge is not just a place to rest your head; it’s a sanctuary for adventurous souls seeking comfort without compromising their budget.
Ideal for backpackers and couples looking for a romantic retreat, this lodge offers a range of entertainment facilities for all guests, including those traveling with family.
Whether you’re staying for a short adventure-filled trip or planning an extended vacation, Padi Ecolodge ensures a homely atmosphere with quality service.
Stay connected with WiFi available in all public areas, allowing you to share your experiences with loved ones back home.
7. Rimba Ecolodge
Address: Muaro Duo Beach, Sungai Pisang village, Bungus
Rimba Ecolodge offers a tranquil retreat at Muaro Duo Beach, nestled in Sungai Pisang village, Bungus.
Each room is furnished with locally crafted rattan, bamboo, and ruyung furnishings, featuring cupboards, mosquito nets, and comfortable bedding with sheets, blankets, pillows, and essential toiletries provided.
The terraces face the sea, providing a serene spot to relax with a small lounge area.
In harmony with its natural surroundings, the huts are designed without air conditioning or fans, leveraging the cool sea breeze and jungle proximity to maintain a comfortable temperature of 18-22°C. For cooler nights, blankets are provided.
Getting to Rimba Ecolodge: To reach Rimba Ecolodge, first travel to Tintin Homestay in Bungus, approximately 40 minutes south of Padang.
From there, guests embark on a scenic boat ride to the ecolodge, enhancing the sense of adventure and seclusion.
Safety Tips While in West Sumatra
1. Plan Your Arrival to Remote Locations
Many of these accommodations require additional travel after reaching nearby cities like Padang.
For example, to reach Rimba Ecolodge, guests need to first travel to Tintin Homestay in Bungus and then take a boat ride.
Be prepared for multiple modes of transportation and possibly some adventure along the way.
Also read 7 Rekomendasi Hotel Terbaik di Kota Padang
2. Pack for the Environment
These lodges often emphasize sustainability and immersion in nature.
Pack essentials like insect repellent (effective against mosquitoes), comfortable walking shoes for jungle treks, and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities and cooler evenings.
3. Mosquito Awareness
West Sumatra, particularly near water and forests, can have mosquitoes.
Consider bringing mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Some accommodations provide mosquito nets, but it’s good to be prepared.
4. Enjoy Digital Detox
Some accommodations, like Ricky’s Beach House, offer a digital detox experience with limited or no WiFi and no hot water.
Embrace this opportunity to disconnect from technology and immerse yourself fully in the natural surroundings and communal experiences.
5. Embrace Local Cuisine and Culture
Indulge in the local flavors offered at each lodge, ranging from Indonesian to Minangkabau cuisine.
These meals often include fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, providing an authentic taste of West Sumatran culture.
6. Participate in Eco-Friendly Activities
Engage in eco-friendly activities such as snorkeling, hiking, jungle treks, and woodcarving lessons offered at various lodges.
These activities not only connect you with nature but also support sustainable tourism practices in the region.
7. Respect Local Customs and Environment
Be mindful of local customs and environmental conservation efforts.
Respect the natural habitats and local communities by minimizing your impact on the environment and supporting eco-friendly initiatives offered by the lodges.
8. Prepare for Variable Weather
West Sumatra’s climate can vary, so pack accordingly with light, breathable clothing for warmer days and layers for cooler evenings.
Check local weather forecasts before your trip to ensure you’re prepared for any changes in weather conditions.
Whether you’re seeking tranquility amidst rice fields, a digital detox by the sea, or adventurous escapades in the jungle, these off-the-grid accommodations in West Sumatra promise an escape like no other.
Embrace the opportunity to disconnect, indulge in local flavors, and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace while creating memories to last a lifetime.
Plan your journey today and embark on a voyage that celebrates both adventure and serenity in this captivating corner of Indonesia.
