The Mentawai Islands are a paradise in West Sumatra. They are among one of the best surf spots in the world, so if you like surfing, this is definitely the place to be. In addition, on the Mentawai island of Siberut you can do a multi-day jungle trek to the Mentawai tribe, which is incredibly cool. The Mentawai Islands are a bit more difficult to travel to, so here are 9 tips you should know before you go to the Mentawai Islands if you want to include the Mentawai Islands in your Sumatra itinerary.
Content of this blog:
1. The boats to and from the Mentawai Islands go only a few times a week
This is a very important first tip when you go to the Mentawai: the boats only go a few times a week. For example, if you want to go to the big island of Siberut, this boat only goes to and from Padang on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays (in 2025, always check with the locals). The other days the boat sails to other islands such as Sipora (Tiupejat).
To know exactly which day which boats go you should always check with the locals. They know exactly the current boat schedule and can help you with this.
2. Always buy boat tickets 1 day in advance
You should always arrive in Padang 1 day before you want to leave for the Mentawai. The boats always leave early in the morning and you have to buy tickets the day before. If you do not do this, you risk that the tickets are sold out and you have to wait 2 or 3 days in Padang before you can take the next boat. We can tell you from personal experience that this is no fun, so always make sure you buy tickets the day before. Or ask your accommodation in advance if they can buy them for you.
We ourselves slept at Kokos Hostel in Padang and can definitely recommend it. The owner is super friendly and is happy to chat with you. He helped us buy tickets (after we arrived late the first day and couldn’t get tickets in the morning).
3. Don’t book a return flight yet because of unreliable boat schedules
Because the Mentawai are about 100 kilometers from the mainland of West Sumatra, the weather can change quickly. If storms or thunderstorms are predicted, the boat will not sail. It is therefore wise not to book a return flight from Padang yet, because you are not sure if you can be on the mainland by then. It does not happen very often that the boat does not sail, but you can never predict the weather (especially in Sumatra).
4. The Mentawai Islands are a surfing mecca
The Mentawai Islands are in the top 3 best surfing destinations in the world. The waves are perfect for advanced surfers. Unfortunately, then again, it is not a good place for beginner surfers. The waves are too high and wild to learn it well. At the same time, there are also very few teachers because everything is geared toward the advanced surfer. If you want to learn to surf well in Indonesia, it is wiser to go to Canggu in Bali or Kuta Lombok.
5. The Mentawai Islands are not particularly touristy
Thus, there are no cozy bars or really fine restaurants on any of the islands. All the food is fairly basic and not very special (especially for the vegans among us). Of course this is totally fine for a week, and also belongs to the basic life of the Mentawai. But do not expect a cozy beach bar.
We visited the Mentawai Islands in 2025 and, of course, this could change. In every place where tourists come they are expanding and making it more attractive, so we do not rule out that the Mentawai Islands may look a little different in the future. Although again we hope not, because the authentic atmosphere is very nice.
6. Only on Siberut the jungle trek to the Mentawai tribe
The jungle trek to the Mentawai tribe is a bucket list activity and, as far as we are concerned, a must do if you are in Sumatra. You get to meet the ancient tribe and take a look at their daily life, which consists of collecting food. This is one of the coolest activities we have done in our years of world travel, and we can recommend it to everyone. Read our extensive blog about the jungle trekking to the Mentawai tribe for more information.
7. Mentawai = rainforest
This means that it can always rain heavily, even in the dry season. Prepare for this – especially mentally – well, then you cannot be disappointed. On Sipora, we had set ourselves up for 4 days of chilling on the beach, but we ended up having 4 days of heavy rain, in the dry season. That’s not to say it’s always like this, but it’s useful to know in advance.
8. Mud, mud and more mud during jungle trekking
Whether it has rained or not, during jungle trekking you have to plow through knee-high mud. You get good jackboots for this, with which you have to balance on the trees and occasionally toil hard to pull yourself out of the mud, but it is okay for a short period of time. Of course everything gets dirty and especially wet from sweating, but this is part of being in the jungle. You can refresh yourself at a river, but of course you go back to basics.
9. There are four Mentawai islands:
Siberut for the Mentawai – tribe
Siberut, the largest island of the Mentawai Islands. Siberut is a paradise for lovers of culture and nature. Here, as described earlier in this blog, you can discover the unique lifestyle of the Mentawai people. They are known for their traditional tattoos and animistic beliefs. Explore the dense jungle on a jungle trek, meet the local tribes and spend the night in a traditional Uma hut. This way you will experience life as the Mentawai tribe has lived it for centuries.
Sipora ~ Rest and waves
Sipora is the smallest island of the Mentawai Islands. Sipora is known for its laid-back atmosphere and great surf spots. In fact, it is in the top 3 surf spots in the world! This is the place where you can totally unwind on pristine beaches or brave the waves. Surf spots like Telescopes attract surfers from all over the world. For non-surfers, there are quiet coves and beautiful beaches to relax on. Sipora is perfect for a laidback day in the sun.
North Pagai (Pagai Utara) ~ Island hopping and snorkeling
North Pagai offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. The turquoise waters surrounding the island are ideal for snorkeling or diving. Here you can enjoy vibrant coral reefs and a great amount of colorful fish. The island is less developed, which means you can expect an authentic and peaceful experience. North Pagai is a top choice for nature lovers who love peace and quiet and the sea.
South Pagai (Pagai Selatan) ~ Unknown and untouched
For those looking for something truly remote, South Pagai is the ultimate destination. This island is the least visited, making you feel like you are entering a piece of undiscovered paradise. Think deserted beaches, dense forests and a sea full of surprises. Although there are fewer facilities, the untouched beauty makes this island a must for adventurers. South Pagai is perfect for travelers who love authentic destinations.
These are our “extra” tips for the Mentawai Islands. It takes a few days to get there, but then you will be rewarded with beautiful beaches all to yourself, and one of the coolest and most authentic activity in Asia. Do you have any questions about the Mentawai Islands? Let us know in a comment below this blog. Have fun!
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