Where?
The Mentawai Islands are located just off the coast of West Sumatra.
Why Visit?
There are a number of surf camps on the Island of Siberut offering world class waves. If surfing is your thing, don’t miss it!
The Islands are the home of the Mentawai tribes. The Mentawai are characterized by their tribal tattooing (the ink is literally tapped into the skin during this long and painful practice) and sharpened teeth – which they believe makes them more attractive. A stay with the Mentawai is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience this unique culture before it disappears.
How to get there?
There are regular boats available from the Padang harbor, it takes 3 hours with the fast boat or overnight with the regular ferry.
Where to stay?
Check into a surf camp if you’re looking for waves, otherwise it is possible to stay with the Mentawai people in an Uma (traditional long house).
Where next?
Return to Padang for further exploration into West Sumatra.
Where to get more information?
I hope you’ve found this article helpful. Use the search bar at the top of the page to find our articles on a specific place, or alternatively peruse the rest of the site to find out about some of the other great destinations in West Sumatra. If you have any questions, leave a comment below, or send us an e-mail at westsumatratraveler@gmail.com – we look forward to hearing from you!
Jen is an English girl who found herself in Sumatra one day and never went back. A wife, mother, traveler and book worm, she has lived in Padang long enough to speak the language and unearth plenty of useful hints and tips for the weary traveler…
