Destinations
Car Rental to Lake Lau Kawar at the Foot of Mount Sinabung
Lake Lau Kawar is a calm mountain lake at the foot of Sinabung. Route from Medan, road conditions and preparing to camp by the lake.
Lake Lau Kawar lies in Naman Teran District, Karo Regency, right at the foot of Mount Sinabung. The water is calm, the air is cool, and mornings are often wrapped in a thin mist that makes it very photogenic.
Route from Medan
The trip starts along the Medan–Berastagi road, then continues towards Kabanjahe and the villages around Naman Teran. From Medan, the total journey usually takes around 3–4 hours, depending on traffic on Jalan Jamin Ginting.
The last few kilometres are on narrower village roads. Cars with higher ground clearance such as the Xpander, BR-V or Fortuner are more comfortable than a sedan.
Mount Sinabung status
Sinabung is an active volcano. Before you set off, check the latest status from PVMBG or the local government, and respect the safety zone in force. Our drivers also check the latest conditions before taking guests to this area.
Things to do
- Camp at the lakeside camping area (bring a warm jacket — nights can be very cold)
- Photograph the mountain reflected in the lake in the morning
- Enjoy coffee and boiled corn at the stalls nearby
Travel tips
- Leave early to arrive before the midday mist rolls in.
- Carry cash, as cashless payment may not be available.
- Combine it with Berastagi in a 2-day trip.
Plan your trip
Check which vehicles are available on your travel dates on the reservation page. For an overview of routes and travel times to the Toba region, see our guide to renting a car from Medan to Lake Toba.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Medan to Lau Kawar?
Around 3–4 hours via Berastagi and Kabanjahe, depending on traffic.
Is it safe to visit Lau Kawar while Sinabung is still active?
Always check the volcano's official status before leaving and respect the safety zones set by the government.
