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Exploring West Sumatra: A Motorcycle Adventure

  • Writer: S D
    S D
  • Sep 3
  • 5 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Route & Rides


My Journey


Here's my route and segments:



Ride Reports


Check out my ride reports, which include details on stays and activities in each location:


Duration & Distances


  • 10 days / 6 stops / 38 hrs riding / 950 km


Why West Sumatra?


West Sumatra is one of the last "untouched" places to explore in Southeast Asia. Aside from surfers heading to Mentawai or adventurous backpackers, this region remains relatively untouched by international tourism. But wow, it has so much to offer! Many key sights are just a few hours apart on decent roads. The culture runs deep, the food is fantastic, and the people are incredibly friendly.


Planning & Essentials


Research


When it comes to motorcycle travel, there's not much information out there. I basically built my itinerary on the go.


Start Point


I flew from Singapore to Padang, which is a great base. You can also arrive in Bukittinggi or Padang from Toba or Nias by bus. I did the latter back in 1991, or even in Pekanbaru by boat from Batam or Bintan (did that too in 1992!).


Classic Route


The classic route is Padang to Bukittinggi to Harau to Batusangkar.


Time Needed


You could easily do this route in 4-5 days. If you add Kerinci and the west coast to Padang, extend it to 7-10 days.


Bike & Gear


Rental


I pre-booked a Yamaha Nmax with Bike Rent Auto Pandang. Their communication was excellent, the price was reasonable, and the bike was outstanding. They run a small operation out of a house. I even stored a bag there while on my trip. Highly recommend them!


Riding Gear


Luggage


Camera Gear


I take a lot of photos and increased my video filming on this trip. My current setup includes a GoPro 12, Insta360, and iPhone 15. I use the GoPro on a clip mount attached to my backpack shoulder strap. It’s set to voice activation, and I keep the beep sound on, so I know when it’s taking a photo or video while I ride. For major photo opportunities, I use my iPhone, keeping it in my tank bag for easy access. I did some filming with the Insta360, but I’m still a newbie with it.



Cost


West Sumatra is fantastic value. It’s one of the best bang-for-buck places to travel in economical Southeast Asia. Accommodation, food, drinks, gas, and other essentials are all cheap. I spent about $40 a day, including bike rental—not living large, but not cutting corners either.


Paperwork


Documents


I carried the usual: passport, motorcycle DL & IDP (both from Singapore), and bike registration.


Insurance


  • Motorcycle: I didn’t even ask; I just assumed you work it out if needed.

  • Travel/Medical: I use World Nomads travel insurance, which covers motorcycle riding and other action-oriented activities. It cost me $675 for 6 months.


Roads & Driving


Road Conditions


The roads were excellent everywhere I rode. The only consideration is which roads to take. Sumatra is home to 60 million people, and some of the main routes suggested by Google are major highways full of transport trucks and traffic. You want to avoid these routes.


Navigation


I used Google Maps. I did encounter one questionable route suggestion—it was basically a goat trail, and I didn’t proceed further this time.


Driving Experience


Driving was very civilized. I didn’t experience any incidents that could be classified as ignorant or unsafe. Motorbikes are a major form of transport, and people know how to give way.



Weather


In May, the weather was mostly great. I did experience rain a couple of times, but it didn’t dampen my spirits.


People, Communication & Safety


Local Culture


The local Minangkabau culture is renowned throughout Indonesia and nearby countries. It’s a major cultural center that has influenced language, religion, and architecture.


Friendly Locals


People are super friendly, curious, and accommodating—more so than in other parts of Indonesia.


Language Barrier


English isn’t widely spoken in these parts, but I didn’t have any issues communicating.


Safety


It’s very safe here. Regardless, I keep my valuables locked in a Pacsafe portable safe when I’m out of the room.



Mobile & Wi-Fi


I bought a 30-day pan-Indonesia SIM at the Telekomsel retail shop for about $20. With decent and cheap mobile data, I didn’t bother with Wi-Fi.


Accommodation


Accommodation was good everywhere, though it gets more local away from tourist centers. For example, places like Twin Lakes and Kerinci were more authentic. I mostly used Agoda for bookings.


Noise Consideration


A consideration: mosques in this region often play at extreme volume, which can disrupt your sleep patterns. Check the area of your hotel carefully. For instance, Hello Guesthouse in Bukittinggi is fantastic, but it’s near two extremely loud mosques that broadcast for extended periods.



Food & Beverage


Food is truly superb in West Sumatra. I’m a massive fan of Padang food, and you guessed it, it originated here. The "tapas" style is great, and the dishes are both delicious and fiery.


Convenience Stores


Chain convenience stores like 7-11 and Circle K aren’t prevalent in these parts.


Alcohol Availability


Alcohol isn’t readily available and was non-existent outside Padang and Bukittinggi.



Sights


So many great sights! Check out my ride report posts to see what I mean.


Wildlife


I saw gibbons, macaques, and lots of colorful birds along the way.



Activities


There’s so much to do in West Sumatra! Here are some activities I did or considered:


  • Padang: Explore Chinatown and the old city.

  • Bukittinggi: Visit the canyon, tunnels, and hike to see the Rafflesia flower.

  • Harau: Tour the valley and hike.

  • Batusangkar: Check out the heritage buildings.

  • Kerinci: Go hiking.

  • Bukit Tapan: Enjoy an excellent ride through untouched jungle and spot gibbons.

  • Coastal Road: Take a stunning ride along the coast from the south to Padang.


Questions?


Drop me a line at terraxplor1@gmail.com. I’m happy to help!

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