Lake Toba continues to allure tourists from around the world and receives remarkable recognition for its extraordinary beauty. The following list of achievements highlights the uniqueness and splendor of Lake Toba, establishing its potential as an international tourist destination.
1. Lake Toba Caldera Listed as UNESCO Global Geopark
On July 7, 2020, the Lake Toba Caldera in North Sumatra, Indonesia, was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark in Paris, France. The local community and the Indonesian government successfully convinced UNESCO of the geological value and cultural heritage of Lake Toba Caldera.
This status presents an opportunity for Indonesia to develop sustainable tourism, create job opportunities, and preserve the environment. Lake Toba is one of the five UNESCO Global Geoparks in Indonesia, deserving our collective efforts to safeguard its glory.
2. Lake Toba Community Receives Goldman Environmental Prize
Environmental activist Delima Silalahi, with the support of the Lake Toba community in North Sumatra, was awarded the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 2023. This international accolade recognizes outstanding environmental conservation efforts. Delima Silalahi became the only Indonesian environmental activist to receive this award, given to environmental heroes from six countries.
Delima’s campaign alongside indigenous communities in Tano Batak resulted in the recognition of their legitimate management rights over customary forests. The prize acknowledges Delima’s achievements and the leadership of the Toba community in environmental preservation, inspiring others to protect the Earth.
3. Film on Lake Toba Wins International Tourism Film Festival Award
At the 16th International Tourism Film Festival in Bulgaria in 2020, two short films produced by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy received awards. One of the films, titled “Danau Toba – The Biggest Caldera Lake in the World,” won in the Region Promotional Film category.
This award serves as a means to communicate to the world that Indonesia possesses beautiful tourist destinations, such as Lake Toba, even amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. It further strengthens the notion that Lake Toba represents the captivating natural allure of Indonesia on the global stage.
4. Lake Toba Chosen as Venue for F1 Powerboat World Championship
Lake Toba has been entrusted with hosting and providing the venue for the F1 Powerboat World Championship. F1 Powerboat is the Formula 1 (F1) World Motorboat Championship organized by the Union Internationale Motonautique.
With participants from countries such as the UK, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, China, Portugal, Brazil, France, South Korea, and Qatar, Lake Toba is regarded as one of the most unique F1 Powerboat racing tracks due to its natural formation within the geographical features of the volcanic lake.
With its impressive accomplishments, Lake Toba has proven itself to be an exceptional international destination. Its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and captivating historical heritage continue to attract the attention of tourists worldwide. With its irresistible allure, Lake Toba remains a magnet for those seeking unforgettable experiences in one of the most astonishing destinations in the world.
