Best time to visit Indonesia

Best for: fewer crowds, travels to West Papau and Maluku, Grebeg Sudiro (Chinese New Year)

Every Indonesian new year starts right in the middle of the country’s rainy season. While it won’t rain 24/7, intense rain will come and go in most regions, so bringing waterproof clothes is essential! Although the rainy season does impact most of the country, some regions in the East (the West Papua province and the Maluku Islands) won’t be as drenched. At this time the country will be much quieter, perfect for a relaxing Indonesian vacation.

Best for: a quieter atmosphere, Lailat al Miraj (Night of Ascension), Cap Go Meh (last day of Chinese New Year), Pasola

Indonesia might not be as picture-perfect during the rainy season, but it does come with the bonus of fewer contenders for beach space and smaller lines at hot spots. If you’re interested in a unique moment of Indonesian culture, why not visit Sumba for the ritual battles on horseback known as Pasola?

Best for: beach stays and day trips, Java Jazz Festival, Nyepi (Day of Silence)

Bali holds its annual Day of Silence in March. This day, known as Nyepi, will essentially shut down the entire island for a day of internal reflection and to ward off negative energy for the start of the new year. Any visitors to Bali will also be impacted by this tradition and should take note that the date changes every year. Outside Bali, the country has a vast range of offerings perfect for May. Why not visit Candi Borobudur (the largest Buddhist structure on earth) in Yogyakarta or learn about the coffee, cocoa and palm industries in Java?

Best for: hiking, diving and wildlife excursions, yoga retreats, Kartini’s Day, Good Friday, Bali Spirit Festival

You know what they say about the shoulder season… it’s the best time to visit anywhere! April falls right at the last stages of the rainy season and before the mid-year tourism crowds. While rain is still likely to come on and off, the change in weather can mean better conditions for outdoor fun such as hiking the mountains, diving the reefs and visits to wildlife sanctuaries. April also hosts a celebration day of the women’s rights activist Raden Ayu Kartini and the Bali Spirit Festival which combines the joys of yoga, dancing and music.

Best for: snorkelling and diving, beach-going, National Awakening Day (celebrates Indonesian identity), Budda’s birthday, Ascension Day

Put away the umbrellas and pull out the sunhats, the dry season is here. With the reduced rainfall, temperatures will sit around the high 30s and improve visibility, especially while snorkelling or orangutan spotting. The dry season is recommended for most travellers due to the good weather, but if you'd prefer it slightly quieter, venture to the country in May before the school holiday crowds arrive. There are also some important dates in the Indonesian calendar this month, including National Awakening Day, Buddha’s birthday and Ascension Day.

Best for: rice paddy exploration, temple visiting and pool dipping, animal spotting, Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)

Whether you want to calm your senses or up your pulse on a hike, June has exactly what you need. This time of year will be great for meandering through rice paddies in Ubud, reflecting at temples or alternatively, diving with the whale sharks off West Papua. But if the jungle is more your calling, look out for some of Indonesia's famous native flora including the Sumatran tiger, orangutan, sun bear and tree kangaroos. Maybe you'll spot the varied bird life and their impressive reptile species (see Komodo dragon) within the greenery or just hanging around the islands too.

Best for: beaches, monument sighting, market shopping, Solo Batik Carnival in Java, Islamic New Year, Festivals of Flower and Fruit

July is bustling in Indonesia. The lively roster of events, particularly the Festivals of Flower and Fruit, Solo Batik Carnival (Java) and Islamic New Year will fill the streets with celebrators, while the perfect weather invites international travellers to the beaches and landmark sites. Split your time between laying under the warm Indonesian sun and venturing out to lively traditional markets (open day and night), learning about local produce or ticking off stunning natural locations –such as the Munduk waterfall and Gili Islands – from your must-see list.

Best for: hiking, sunny beaches, boating outings, Galungan dan Kuningan, Independence Day, The Balinese holiday Galungan dan Kuningan

No matter if you prefer the jungle to the mountains or the city to the beach, the climate in August makes it a perfect time to travel to your style. Hiking trails are dry and the beaches are bustling, so if you’d prefer to stay out of the rain but don’t mind crowds, this month is your best bet for a good time. Hop on a boat tour for a different view of the islands or get up with the sun to see spectacular sights from the top of Mt Bromo. Bars are likely to be busy at this time of year and there's plenty on offer for family days out, too.

Best for: bike tours, surfing, Lake Toba Festival, Erau biennial cultural festival

Surf the days away in sunny September. Or, for those more land-based, why not bike through Bali or combine the two on an active adventure through three of Indonesia’s hot spots? This month’s weather is great for all things action, relaxation and exploration. You’ll also be able to watch the 5-day Lake Toba Festival in Northern Sumatra, which is a unique celebration of the year’s blessings complete with sport, dancing and art.

Best for: cultural activities, animal encounters, Batik Day, Ubud Writers & Readers Festival

October marks one of the last dry months in the calendar year. Often during this time, farmers around Sumatra and Kalimantan will begin burning fields which can cause air pollution due to the smoke and haze. The weather can also be a little touch-and-go due to the incoming wet season, so try to reach the orangutan and wildlife sanctuaries before the animals hide away from the rain. There are also some great festivities in October such as the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival or the celebration of batik, a traditional cloth originating in Java.

Best for: gallery hopping, museum visits, Jakarta Fashion Week

If crowds aren’t your style and you’re interested in both indoor and outdoor offerings of Indonesia, November may be the way to go. While the weather is perfect for exploring temples, museums and markets, you’ll still be able to lounge by the pool or beach – just maybe sit near an umbrella as it is very close to the rainy season. Jakarta also hosts their Fashion Week in November (the largest in Southeast Asia), so it's a great time for appreciating the artisans and creators of the country in the many galleries and museums.

Best for: holiday fun, cooking classes, yoga, spa days, Djakarta Warehouse Project

Okay, now the wet season has officially started. You can enjoy the peace of Indonesia with fewer visitors for most of the month. However, the country does see an influx of visitors for Christmas, New Year’s and the Djakarta Warehouse Project dance festival. While the wet season can put a damper on things (pun intended), the rain usually comes in sudden heavy showers, so it may not be the best time for hiking. If the weather doesn't allow outdoor expeditions, why not partake in a cooking class, yoga session or a wind-down at one of Indonesia’s many spas?