Indonesia sits right on the equator, so it has a classic tropical climate: warm and humid year-round. February falls in the wet season, which means you can expect quite a bit of rain. Humidity levels are high in February, often around 80%. This can be a bit uncomfortable if you’re not used to it, but staying hydrated and taking breaks in air-conditioned spots can help. Adopting a slower pace can also make it easier to handle the heat. Here's our complete guide to the weather in Indonesia in February.
In February, Indonesia is still under the spell of the monsoon season, which means you’ll be dealing with heavy rainfall and high humidity. Frequent tropical downpours and occasional thunderstorms are the norm. Many regions get between 200 to 250 mm of rain during this month. Temperatures are warm, and the humidity can make it feel even warmer.
These weather conditions can put a damper on your travel plans. Rural roads might turn into muddy paths, and flooding can disrupt transportation. However, urban centers like Jakarta and Bali handle the rain better.
February is generally a low season for tourism in Indonesia because of the monsoon rains. This means that the popular tourist spots are less crowded, and you can often find lower prices for accommodations and flights.
Overall, February might not be the best time to visit Indonesia if you’re looking for sunny skies and exploring the outdoors. However, if you don’t mind the rain and prefer fewer crowds and lower travel costs, it can be an interesting time to explore Indonesia’s cultural and urban attractions.
Mawi Beach in Lombok, Kuta, Indonesia © Shutterstock
The weather in Indonesia in February is warm, wet and humid. Being near the equator, Indonesia enjoys about 12 hours of daylight year-round. Days heat up to around 31°C (88°F), making it hot and sticky, with heavy showers often rolling in during the afternoons and evenings. Nights cool down to a more comfortable 25°C (77°F).
If you’re planning on water activities, the sea temperature hovers around a balmy 29°C (84°F), perfect for swimming or snorkeling on days when the rain lets up.
Jakarta and Java experience similar weather patterns in February. Daytime temperatures average around 29°C (84°F), with high humidity levels. Afternoon showers are common, typically short-lived but intense, cooling down the temperatures briefly.
February in Bali and the Lesser Sunda Islands (such as Lombok and Flores) sees temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F). The weather remains warm and pleasant, ideal for beachgoers and tourists. Rainfall decreases compared to previous months, with occasional short showers or evening thunderstorms. The islands' lush landscapes thrive under these conditions.
Sumatra in February experiences temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F) and the island's tropical rainforests are in full bloom during this time. Coastal areas like Medan and Padang enjoy warm days with occasional rain showers, while inland regions may experience more consistent rainfall.
Papua and eastern Indonesia, including Sulawesi and the Moluccas, have varied weather conditions in February. Daytime temperatures range from 27°C to 33°C (81°F to 91°F), with high humidity levels. Rainfall remains frequent, particularly in Papua's mountainous regions and Sulawesi's rainforests, supporting the region's unique ecosystems.
Sire beach, white sand beach in Lombok, Indonesia © Shutterstock
February in Indonesia is still within the wet season, which means the weather in Indonesia in February is predominantly rainy with high humidity. The rains are typically heavy but often occur in short, intense bursts, interspersed with periods of sunshine. This pattern can lead to disruptions in travel plans, including delayed flights and challenging road conditions, especially in rural areas prone to flooding.
However, the frequent rains also keep the landscapes lush and green, creating beautiful scenery. Swimming is possible, particularly in resort areas with well-maintained pools and protected beaches. However, ocean conditions may be rough, so caution is advised for sea activities.
Despite the wet weather, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can visit the temples of Bali, explore Jakarta's museums, or attend cultural festivals in Yogyakarta. The rainy season can also be a perfect opportunity to indulge in Indonesia’s culinary delights, from trying street food to dining in high-end restaurants.
While February’s weather may not be ideal for sunbathing or certain outdoor adventures, it offers a chance to experience Indonesia’s culture, food, and urban life in a different way.
Lombok, one of the best Indonesian islands © Ties Lagraauw
The weather in February in Indonesia can be a mixed bag depending on where you go. It's still the rainy season for many parts of the country, particularly in Bali, Java, and parts of Sumatra. On the upside, these conditions generally translate to lower prices for accommodations and tours, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit.
Crowds in February are usually lighter compared to the peak tourist months like July and August, but it's not entirely quiet either. Popular tourist spots can still see moderate foot traffic, especially during weekends and around major attractions.
For those who prioritize dry weather and are willing to pay a bit more, months like June to September typically offer clearer skies and less rainfall, making them a lot more suitable for outdoor activities and beach trips across Indonesia.
Sea turtle sanctuary in Gili Meno Island, Indonesia © Shutterstock
If you’re planning your trip to Indonesia, you’ll want to check if your visit coincides with the archipelago’s many festivals and events. Don't wait too long to book your accommodation for the best options. If you’re looking for ideas to fill your itinerary, see our Indonesia trip ideas.
Bau Nyale Fishing Festival takes place in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, typically in February (or sometimes March) during the spawning season of Nyale sea worms.
The legend has it that Princess Mandalika, a mythical figure, sacrificed herself to prevent war among her suitors by jumping into the sea, transforming into sea worms (Nyale).
The festival celebrates this legend with fishing competitions and cultural performances. Locals believe that catching Nyale during this period brings blessings and good fortune.
Cap Goh Meh marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations and is celebrated by the Chinese-Indonesian community across the country, particularly in cities like Jakarta, Medan, and Surabaya.
It falls on the 15th day of the lunar new year and is known as the Chinese Valentine's Day. The festival includes vibrant parades, dragon and lion dances, cultural performances, and the tradition of releasing lanterns and offerings to pray for good luck and prosperity.
The weather in Indonesia in February is rainy, even in Maluku © Ties Lagraauw
Bau Nyale is a traditional ritual associated with the aforementioned fishing festival in Lombok. During Bau Nyale, locals gather on the beach at night to catch Nyale sea worms, which are believed to be a manifestation of the Princess Mandalika's spirit.
The worms are considered sacred and are either eaten raw or cooked in local dishes. The ritual is accompanied by prayers and offerings, reflecting the spiritual significance attached to this natural phenomenon.
Pasola is a traditional spear-throwing festival held in Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, usually in February. It is an ancient ritual where horsemen from rival clans charge at each other and throw wooden spears (traditionally blunted) while riding at full speed.
The festival is believed to maintain the harmony between tribes and ensure a bountiful harvest. Pasola also includes cultural performances, traditional music, and ceremonies that highlight the island's unique cultural heritage.
Balingkang Festival is celebrated by the Batak Toba people in North Sumatra, particularly in the Samosir region of Lake Toba. It typically takes place in February and is dedicated to the mythical figure of Balingkang, who is believed to have introduced rice cultivation to the region.
The festival includes rituals, traditional dances, music performances, and competitions that showcase the agricultural traditions and cultural heritage of the Batak Toba community.
Diver, cabbage coral in Banda, Indonesia © Shutterstock
Eager to explore Indonesia? Forget the hours of planning and let our local travel experts handle it for you. Our trips are fully customizable and include 24/7 support throughout your adventure. Check out some of our inspiring Indonesia itineraries:
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 02.07.2024
