Indonesia’s vast archipelago spans the Equator, resulting in a generally tropical climate with two main seasons: wet and dry. The dry season (April–October) often provides sunnier days and less rainfall, ideal for island-hopping, hiking volcanoes like Mount Bromo, or surfing Bali’s famous breaks. July and August are peak months with higher prices and crowds. The wet season (November–March) brings monsoon rains, but storms can be sporadic, leaving stretches of sunshine. Some areas, like Sumatra or Papua, have more complex rainfall patterns and may see year-round precipitation. Shoulder months (April, May, September) can deliver a good balance of cost savings and decent weather. If you desire the broadest range of outdoor activities—such as diving in Komodo or exploring temples in Yogyakarta—aim for the sunnier months in the mid-dry season.
January: Wet season across much of archipelago, fewer beachgoers.
February: Continued rains, decent for Bali’s cultural tours.
March: Monsoon tail end, calmer seas, quieter tourist spots.
April: Start of drier months, good for island-hopping and surfing.
May: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than peak, best for exploring temples.
June: Popular, dry, warm, prime for Bali and Lombok beaches.
July: Peak travel season, advanced bookings recommended, great diving.
August: Sunny days, busiest, cultural festivals in various islands.
September: Still dry, calmer after peak, good hiking conditions.
October: Transition, some scattered showers, smaller tourist numbers.
November: Rain picks up, off-season deals, tropical greenery.
December: Rainy, holiday crowds in Bali, spectacular year-end festivals.