Padang's greatest asset as a base is the access it provides to the Minangkabau highlands — some of the most scenic and culturally rich territory in Sumatra. Bukittinggi, the highland town with the famous clock tower (Jam Gadang), is two hours away by road and makes an easy day trip or an overnight stop. Lake Maninjau is a beautiful volcanic crater lake a further hour west of Bukittinggi, reached by a spectacular road with 44 hairpin bends.
Further afield, the Harau Valley has dramatic cliff walls and waterfalls; Batusangkar preserves the ceremonial palace of the Pagaruyung kingdom; and Kerinci Seblat National Park to the south contains Sumatra's highest peak, Mount Kerinci, and one of the few remaining habitats of the Sumatran tiger. Lake Singkarak, a large natural lake northeast of Padang, is another rewarding half-day excursion.
Off the coast, Sikuai Island, Pagang Island, and Cubadak Island all offer clear water and snorkelling within a few hours' boat ride of Padang. The Mentawai Islands further offshore are a world-famous surfing and wildlife destination that requires at least several days.