Sibayak

Sibayak is an active stratovolcano located in North Sumatra, Indonesia. It sits in the Barisan Mountains near the town of Brastagi in Karo Regency, roughly 60 kilometers north of Medan. The summit rises to about 2,172 meters above sea level, and the volcano features a conical peak with a fumarolic crater at the summit. The edifice is built mainly from andesitic lava flows and pyroclastic deposits, which is typical of many volcanoes along the Sunda Arc.

Historically, Sibayak has produced eruptions in the 19th and early 20th centuries. In recent decades the volcano has shown ongoing fumarolic activity and gas emissions, with no major eruptive event in the modern record. The summit area contains a hot, sulfurous environment around the crater, which is accessible to visitors who approach via a popular trail from Brastagi.

As a hiking destination, Sibayak is commonly visited for sunrise treks and day trips. The standard ascent from Brastagi takes roughly 2–3 hours one way, with trails passing through forested slopes and open meadows. Local guides operate from Brastagi to assist visitors, and the site is sometimes included in itineraries that also feature nearby Sinabung.

Hazards associated with Sibayak include sudden gas emissions, steam explosions, and the general risks of volcanic terrain. Visitors should monitor official advisories and heed safety recommendations, particularly regarding gas visibility, weather conditions, and altitude.