KBRN, Berastagi: Berastagi, a popular tourist hub in the Karo Highlands about 70 kilometers from Medan, continues to charm visitors with its cool climate and sweeping views of Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak. Situated at an altitude of 1,200 to 1,400 meters above sea level, the town offers a refreshing escape from the lowland heat.

One of Berastagi’s enduring attractions is the horse-drawn carriage tour, which remains popular among tourists of all ages. The tours begin around the Berastagi Fruit Market, where visitors can choose their preferred routes.

A ride around the Sibayak Hotel area costs about IDR 100,000 (approximately USD 6.50), while a more leisurely trip around the park and market area costs IDR 50,000 (approximately USD 3.25).

The experience offers more than just transportation. With crisp highland air and scenic mountain views, the carriage rides provide a nostalgic journey through Berastagi’s tranquil streets. Along the way, tourists can observe daily life, from local residents to bustling market vendors.

Max, a visitor from Medan, said he deliberately tried the horse-drawn carriage tour during his trip. “The atmosphere was relaxed, the air was cool. On the way home, I also bought some oranges to take back to Medan,” he said on Sunday, December 14, 2025.

Beyond recreation, the tours have become a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The traditional ambiance, combined with Berastagi’s natural beauty, makes the carriages and riding horses popular backdrops for visitors seeking memorable images.

After the ride, tourists often stop at the Berastagi Fruit Market to purchase fresh produce such as oranges and strawberries, sold directly by local farmers.

The continued presence of horse-drawn carriage tours in Berastagi not only enriches the town’s tourism offerings but also sustains traditional practices and preserves indigenous knowledge. This blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty ensures that Berastagi remains a distinctive destination in North Sumatra’s highlands. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)