Explore the real Indonesia – home to spectacular landscapes, sacred temples, rich culture and genuinely warm Indonesian. Itineraries are for suggestion and our tailor-made service is just one click away!
Indonesia is a vast archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, offering everything from lush rainforests and volcanoes to remote beaches and vibrant cities. Whether your journey takes you to the cultural heartland of Java, the surf breaks of Lombok and Bali, or the wild beauty of Papua and Sumatra, you’ll find a rich tapestry of traditions, landscapes and hospitality.
While the diversity of cultures is immense—each island or region has its own language, cuisine and heritage—the experience of travelling here is shaped by a spirit of discovery. Infrastructure in major destinations is strong: you’ll find luxury resorts, boutique hideaways, and service standards that cater to discerning travellers. At the same time, local communities remain accessible, and you’ll often enjoy moments of genuine connection—whether it’s a ritual ceremony in a mountain village or a quiet sunset on a nearly empty beach.
The ideal travel window depends on which part of Indonesia you’re exploring, but a safe general guideline is the dry season, typically from April (or May) to September.
During these months you’ll benefit from clearer skies, calmer seas and more predictable conditions for outdoor activities like island-hopping, diving and volcano treks.
If you’re exploring less-touristed regions or looking for off-peak value, a shoulder period—such as March to early April, or September to October—can work well, though weather can vary by island.
Best Places to Visit
January falls in the wet season across most of Indonesia, yet Bali and Lombok still attract visitors seeking spiritual retreats and lush tropical scenery. The rain tends to arrive in short bursts, leaving plenty of time to explore Ubud’s temples and rice terraces under misty skies. Meanwhile, North Sulawesi’s Bunaken Marine Park remains a haven for divers, with good underwater visibility between showers.
Recommended Travel Styles
Ideal for wellness and cultural experiences — yoga retreats, Balinese cooking classes, and art workshops thrive amid the peaceful green landscapes. Nature lovers can still enjoy light treks and photography, as the countryside glows in deep shades of green after rainfall.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– New Year Celebrations (January 1): Major cities and beach destinations like Bali and Jakarta host fireworks and beach parties. Tip: Secure accommodations early, as festive crowds peak during this time.
Best Places to Visit
February continues to bring tropical rains, but the lush beauty of Java’s countryside shines. Yogyakarta and Borobudur are particularly atmospheric with misty mornings surrounding ancient temples. Sumatra’s Lake Toba also reveals a tranquil side, with fewer tourists and dramatic volcanic scenery.
Recommended Travel Styles
Perfect for cultural and spiritual travel. Visit temples, explore art villages, or take part in traditional Javanese performances. Indoor cultural attractions such as museums and batik workshops offer great rainy-day alternatives.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Cap Go Meh (15th day of Lunar New Year): Celebrated in Chinese communities, especially in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, with dragon dances and parades.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the processions and respect local rituals by dressing modestly.
Best Places to Visit
March marks the transition to the dry season in parts of Indonesia. Bali and Lombok start to see longer sunny intervals, perfect for exploring temples like Tanah Lot and lounging on beaches such as Seminyak or Nusa Dua. The Komodo Islands also begin to reopen for smooth sailing and wildlife spotting.
Recommended Travel Styles
Great for island-hopping and cultural immersion. The pleasant weather allows temple tours, cycling through villages, or joining local ceremonies. Adventure seekers can begin planning diving trips or liveaboard cruises around Flores.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Nyepi (Balinese New Year, usually March): The “Day of Silence” when the entire island shuts down for reflection. Tip: Stay in your accommodation during Nyepi; prepare food and essentials in advance.
Best Places to Visit
The dry season arrives across much of the archipelago. Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are sunny and vibrant, while Komodo National Park offers calm waters and perfect diving visibility. Java’s highlands, including Mount Bromo, are especially photogenic at sunrise.
Recommended Travel Styles
Perfect for beach vacations and adventure travel. Dive, snorkel, or trek active volcanoes. April’s dry, clear days make it ideal for nature photography and outdoor excursions.
Key Festivals or Holidays
This month is relatively quiet for festivals, making it a good month for those seeking tranquility and lower prices.
Best Places to Visit
May is one of the best months to travel across Indonesia. The weather is stable and sunny across the nation. Bali, Lombok, and Komodo are stunning, while Sumatra’s rainforests, including Bukit Lawang, are lush yet accessible.
Recommended Travel Styles
Ideal for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters. Enjoy orangutan trekking, scenic volcano hikes, and island-hopping cruises. The warm, dry weather makes it perfect for exploring temples and beaches alike.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday): Celebrated at Borobudur with candle-lit processions and chanting. Tip: Visit early morning to witness the peaceful ceremony; dress respectfully in light-colored clothing.
Best Places to Visit
June welcomes long sunny days and blue skies — prime time for visiting Bali, Komodo, and Flores. Java’s cultural treasures like Borobudur and Prambanan shine under clear skies, while Raja Ampat offers excellent diving conditions.
Recommended Travel Styles
Perfect for luxury island escapes, diving trips, and cultural touring. The calm seas encourage yacht charters and liveaboard cruises. Families also find this month ideal for school holidays.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Bali Arts Festival (June–July): A month-long celebration of Balinese dance, music, and crafts in Denpasar. Tip: Check local schedules for performances — it’s a great chance to see authentic cultural showcases.
Best Places to Visit
July is high season and one of the most beautiful months. Bali, Lombok, and Komodo boast perfect beach weather, while the highlands of Java and North Sumatra are pleasantly cool. Mount Bromo and Ijen offer striking sunrise views.
Recommended Travel Styles
Best for beach holidays, family vacations, and cultural exploration. With dry weather and long daylight hours, it’s easy to combine relaxation with temple visits or adventure.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Eid al-Adha (dates vary): Celebrated nationwide with prayers, family gatherings, and religious ceremonies in July or sometimes late June, depending on the lunar calendar. Tip: Be aware that government offices, banks, and local businesses may be closed during this time, and it’s essential to respect local customs.
Best Places to Visit
August continues the dry season, offering bright, sunny days across the islands. Bali and the Gilis buzz with energy, while less-crowded destinations like Flores and Sumba provide serenity and authentic village life.
Recommended Travel Styles
Ideal for adventure, cultural experiences, and photography. Go trekking, diving, or attend traditional ceremonies. Sumba’s rugged landscapes and cultural richness make it an emerging gem this month.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Independence Day (August 17): Celebrated across Indonesia with parades, games, and flag-raising ceremonies. Tip: Join local festivities in villages — it’s a joyful and welcoming event for visitors.
Best Places to Visit
September offers warm weather and thinner crowds after the peak season. Bali and Java remain dry, while Flores and Sulawesi have outstanding diving visibility. It’s also one of the best times for hiking and volcano trekking.
Recommended Travel Styles
Great for couples and slow travelers who prefer fewer crowds. Enjoy private cruises, eco-lodges, and nature escapes. The calm weather favors snorkeling and cultural immersion.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Lake Limboto Festival: A festival in Gorontalo featuring a national lakes conference, traditional games, culinary events, and a traditional boat contest.
Best Places to Visit
The dry season continues in most areas, with occasional showers toward the end of the month. Bali, Lombok, and Java still shine, and the rice fields are lush before harvest. Raja Ampat reopens for diving with calm seas and thriving marine life.
Recommended Travel Styles
Ideal for diving, island-hopping, and cultural retreats. The weather is still pleasant, and accommodations become more affordable after the peak season.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Gandrung Sewu Festival (Banyuwangi, East Java): A festival featuring a mass performance of the Gandrung dance by thousands of dancers.
Best Places to Visit
November marks the start of the rainy season, but Bali and Java remain appealing with short afternoon rains. The lush landscapes and quieter atmosphere make it a peaceful time for travelers seeking rest and reflection.
Recommended Travel Styles
Best for wellness retreats, spa escapes, and cultural discovery. Photography enthusiasts will love the dramatic skies and fresh greenery.
Key Festivals or Holidays
This month is relatively quiet for festivals, making it a good month for those seeking tranquility and lower prices.
Best Places to Visit
December is festive and lively. While rain becomes more frequent, Bali remains a favorite destination with holiday celebrations and lush scenery. The Moluccas and Papua often experience calmer weather, offering adventurous escapes.
Recommended Travel Styles
Perfect for cultural immersion and year-end relaxation. Enjoy yoga retreats, beach resorts, or scenic drives through green valleys.
Key Festivals or Holidays
– Christmas and New Year Celebrations: Festivities light up Christian-majority regions like North Sulawesi and Flores, as well as tourist hubs like Bali. Tip: Book accommodations and flights well in advance — it’s one of the busiest months of the year.
| Place | Daily max temperature (°C) | Monthly rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Bali | ||
| Jakarta | ||
| Komodo | ||
| Lombok | ||
| Sumba | ||
| Yogyakarta |
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