Sampean Hot Spring is a thermal bathing location in the village of Sampean, Samosir. The water flows directly from nearby springs but it gets hot due to the volcanic activity of the mountains. It is about 1.5 hours from Tuktuk. To see it on the map, click here.
What’s Special
Sampean Hot Spring is the only hot spring located by Lake Toba on Samosir island. You can bathe in hot/warm and cold water at the same spot. The hot one contains sulfur that’s believed to naturally nourish human bodies. The cold one helps them relax afterward.
Here are some of the things that make Sampean Hot Spring special:
- The water: The water in Sampean Hot Spring is rich in minerals, such as sulfur and iron. These minerals are said to have therapeutic properties, such as relieving muscle pain and skin conditions.
- The temperature: The water in the Sampean Hot Spring is heated by geothermal activity, giving it a temperature of around 40 degrees Celsius. This makes it a great place to relax and soak in the hot water, especially after a long day of sightseeing.
- The views: Sampean Hot Spring is located on a hilltop overlooking Lake Toba. This gives visitors stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
- The facilities: Sampean Hot Spring has a variety of facilities, including changing rooms, showers, and a restaurant. This makes it a convenient and comfortable place to visit.
What to Enjoy
During both stages of your activity, enjoy the natural scenery of the volcanic lake surrounded by sturdy cliffs and pine trees. It is a combination of health tourism and leisure.
Sampean Hot Spring requires significant traveling from the main tourist hubs, such as Tuktuk. You will enjoy magnificent scenery while on the trip.
Sampean Hot Spring is also well known for Batak specialties food, namely Manuk Napinadar or Napinadar Chicken. It tastes delicious, spicy, and savory with a very distinctive andaliman seasoning.
What to Expect
If you are not a fan of the Batak cuisine, you had better bring your own food and drinks. This area is not as developed as other hot springs. Although there are some stores in the location, the prices are too high.
Here are some tips when visiting Sampean Hot Spring:
- The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is generally sunny and clear during this time, making it more comfortable to soak in the hot water.
- There is a small parking area in the spring.
- The entrance fee is Rp 10,000 (US$0.70) per person.
- Bring your own towel and swimsuit.
- Be careful when getting in and out of the spring, as the ground can be slippery.
- Do not stay in the spring for more than 20 minutes at a time.
- Drink plenty of water before and after soaking in the spring.
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