2 Days "Pacu Jawi", Sumatra Cow's race
About the Trip
Embark on an exclusive photography expedition in the heart of Sumatra, designed for passionate photographers seeking to capture authentic cultural moments and timeless traditions. This journey offers a rare opportunity to witness and document "Pacu Jawi" (The Cow Race)—a thrilling and extreme event unique to Sumatra. Held in muddy rice paddies during harvest celebrations, this adrenaline-pumping spectacle showcases the strength and agility of local bulls as they race through the fields, guided by skilled jockeys. More than just a race, Pacu Jawi is a vibrant cultural tradition, deeply rooted in the community's way of life. It’s an unparalleled chance to immerse yourself in the spirit of Sumatra while capturing extraordinary images of action, emotion, and culture.
Trip Summary
Day 1: Padang – Tanah Datar (Pacu Jawi) – Bukittinggi
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Morning Departure: Depart from Padang and drive to Tanah Datar Regency, a scenic 4-hour journey through lush landscapes.
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Arrival in Tanah Datar (11:00 AM): Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the Pacu Jawi event location.
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Pacu Jawi Experience (1:00 PM): Witness the thrill of Pacu Jawi, the famous cow race held in muddy rice fields. Capture stunning photos of this unique cultural tradition and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
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Evening Transfer to Bukittinggi (4:00 PM): After the event, drive to Bukittinggi and check in to your hotel for a restful evening.
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Overnight in Bukittinggi.
Day 2: Bukittinggi – Maninjau Village – Padang
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Morning Pick-Up (8:00 AM): Begin your day with a visit to Lawang Village, known for its traditional sugarcane processing. Enjoy a photography session capturing local craftsmanship.
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Maninjau Village: Explore the serene beauty of Maninjau, a tranquil village surrounded by rice terraces and lush greenery.
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Bukittinggi Exploration: Return to Bukittinggi to visit the iconic Sianok Canyon and its breathtaking views. Stroll through the traditional market to experience local life and culture.
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Afternoon Transfer to Padang: Depart Bukittinggi and journey back to Padang via the picturesque Anai Valley.
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Arrival in Padang: Enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant before checking into your hotel for the night.
Overnight in Padang.
This short yet exciting itinerary combines the adrenaline rush of Pacu Jawi with the charm of Minangkabau culture, offering a perfect blend of action, photography, and exploration.
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Practical Information​​
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Sumatra Cow race known as Pacu Jawi is a traditional game of Minangkabau people, to celebrate the end of harvest time in the rice field. So please bear in mind there is no animals violation or maltreatment as it looks in this event. The cows that participate in this event belong to the local farmer, they feed and take care of them for their living hood.
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This race is a ceremony or entertainment for local people/farmers and there is no very high competition, the main purpose of this game is to have fun.
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For the cows that show good performance by being able to run straight and cooperate with one another, they will get special attention from the owner and the local community and also the selling price will also go up in the traditional cattle market.
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Because the Sumatra area is covered with rainforest and located right on the equator, it has a tropical climate, the weather is hot and humid all year round. The driest season normally starts from May to September,although there are sporadic rains and may occur during this period. Rains are abundant between November and January. the average temperature is 30 °C degrees in Siberut island. Be ready for hot, humid, and hasty conditions.
