Weather in Indonesia in October

October marks the beginning of the wet season in Indonesia, but don’t let that dampen your spirits. The rain usually comes in short, intense bursts, often in the late afternoon or evening. The beaches are less crowded compared to the peak season, so you can enjoy the surf and sand without the masses. Here’s our complete guide to the weather in Indonesia in October, with advice from our local travel experts.

Indonesia in October at a glance

• The weather in October in Indonesia typically experiences warm and humid weather with occasional rainfall. 
• Temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) on average.
• October sees moderate tourist crowds, especially in popular tourist spots like Bali and Java. It's not as crowded as the peak tourist season (June-August) but still relatively busy.

What is the weather like in Indonesia in October?

The weather in Indonesia in October is characterized by a mix of sunny and rainy days as the country transitions from the dry season to the wet season. 

Temperatures are typically warm with increasing humidity levels. Average rainfall in October varies, with many regions receiving between 100 to 150 mm. While there are still plenty of dry, sunny days, rain showers become more frequent towards the end of the month.

This increase in rainfall can impact travel plans, especially for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach visits, as sudden downpours might interrupt plans. Transportation remains generally reliable, although you’ll want to be prepared for occasional delays due to rain.

October is considered a shoulder season for tourism in Indonesia. As the dry season ends, the number of tourists starts to decrease, resulting in less crowded attractions and more competitive prices for accommodations and flights.

Overall, October can be a great time to visit Indonesia because it offers a mix of favorable weather conditions and fewer tourists, if you don’t mind the occasional rain.

Average daily temperatures in October

Daytime temperatures in October typically reach around 31°C (88°F), providing hot and sunny conditions, though occasional afternoon showers become more frequent. At night, temperatures drop to about 25°C (77°F).

Compared to the peak dry season months of July and August, October sees a slight increase in rain, making the weather more variable but still predominantly warm and sunny. Sea temperatures remain warm, averaging around 28°C (82°F), making the waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities.

The weather in Jakarta and Java

Jakarta and Java experience warm and increasingly wet weather in October, with daytime temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Humidity levels are high, and rainfall becomes frequent and heavy, often accompanied by thunderstorms. The wet conditions nourish Java's lush landscapes and agricultural regions.

The weather in Bali and the Lesser Sunda Islands

In October, Bali  and the Lesser Sunda Islands, including Lombok and Flores,  have temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F). The islands experience significant rainfall as the wet season intensifies, with frequent showers and occasional storms. Humidity levels remain high.

The weather in Sumatra

Sumatra in October sees temperatures between 24°C and 29°C (75°F to 84°F). Coastal areas like Medan and Padang experience increasing rainfall, transitioning towards the peak of the wet season. Inland regions receive substantial precipitation, sustaining the island's rainforests and biodiversity. October is characterized by humid conditions and frequent rain showers that contribute to Sumatra's lush and diverse ecosystems.

The weather in Papua and eastern Indonesia

Papua and eastern Indonesia, including Sulawesi and the Moluccas, have temperatures ranging from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F) in October. The region experiences heavy rainfall as it enters the wet season, with humidity levels reaching their peak. Persistent showers are common, particularly in mountainous areas and rainforests.

Is October a good time to visit Indonesia?

Absolutely, October is a fantastic time to visit this country. Though the weather in Indonesia in October is varied depending on the region you plan to visit, you can still expect sunny days with only occasional showers. 

Keep in mind, though, October is when the rainy season starts in some parts of Indonesia, particularly in places like Sumatra and Kalimantan. This might throw a wrench in your travel plans in those regions. However, popular spots like Bali and Java generally stay dry and sunny.

Temperatures are usually warm and great for beach days and swimming if you can avoid the rain. The seas are calm this month, and diving and snorkeling are popular.

October is generally considered a shoulder season in Indonesia, offering a quieter travel experience with lower tourist numbers and potentially more affordable accommodations. That said, you’ll want to keep a flexible schedule to account for the potential rain.

October is also ideal for cultural and nature tours. You can visit the ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan or take a trek through the lush, green landscapes of Ubud and the picturesque rice terraces of Tegalalang. The evenings are slightly cooler, so it’s comfortable for exploring markets or sampling local cuisine.

What about the crowd & cost?

In October, you’ll notice Indonesia's tourist crowds starting to thin out compared to the jam-packed months of July and August. The high season is winding down, so popular spots are much more relaxed. You’ll find during this month shorter queues at tourist attractions and less competition for that perfect beach spot.

Accommodation prices take a dip too. With fewer tourists around, hotels and resorts often roll out promotions and discounts to lure travelers. 

If you want similar weather but even fewer people, think about visiting in April, May, or September. These months boast pleasant weather like October (although slightly more rainy) but come with even fewer tourists, giving you a quieter and potentially more budget-friendly experience.

Festivals and events in Indonesia in October

When preparing for your journey to Indonesia, be sure to look into the various festivals and events happening across the archipelago during your stay. It's advisable to secure accommodations early as they are often in high demand. For further travel inspiration and suggestions, delve into our detailed guide to the top activities in Indonesia.

Ubud Writers and Readers Festival

Ubud Writers and Readers Festival is an annual literary event held in Ubud, Balir. It brings together Indonesian and international writers, poets, journalists, and artists for panel discussions, workshops, book launches, and literary performances. 

The festival explores diverse themes and narratives, promoting cultural exchange, literacy, and creative expression in a vibrant setting amidst Ubud's artistic and spiritual ambiance.

Jogja Java Carnival

Jogja Java Carnival is a colorful carnival held in Yogyakarta, usually in October, celebrating Javanese culture and creativity. The carnival features elaborate floats, traditional Javanese costumes, music and dance performances, and street parades showcasing the region's cultural heritage. 

Jogja Java Carnival attracts participants from different provinces in Java and visitors who come to witness the artistic displays and festive atmosphere in Yogyakarta.

Full Moon Festival

The Full Moon Festival, locally known as Purnama, is celebrated throughout Indonesia, particularly in Bali, to mark the full moon's significance in Hindu lunar calendars. It is a time for spiritual reflection and cultural festivities. Temples are adorned with offerings, and traditional dance performances such as the famous Kecak dance are held to honor the gods and seek blessings for prosperity and harmony.

Jakarta Fashion Week

Jakarta Fashion Week is one of Indonesia's premier fashion events. It showcases the latest collections from Indonesian and international designers, fashion shows, seminars, and industry exhibitions.

Jakarta Fashion Week plays a crucial role in promoting Indonesia's fashion industry and emerging talents on a global stage, attracting fashion enthusiasts, buyers, and media from around the world.

Nusa Penida Festival

Nusa Penida Festival is a cultural and environmental festival held on Nusa Penida Island, Bali. It celebrates the island's natural beauty, marine biodiversity, and cultural heritage through art exhibitions, traditional performances, music concerts, and eco-friendly initiatives. 

The festival includes activities such as beach clean-ups, snorkeling tours, and community-based conservation projects, highlighting Nusa Penida's commitment to sustainable tourism.

Maratua Jazz & Dive Fiesta

Maratua Jazz & Dive Fiesta is a unique festival held on Maratua Island, East Kalimantan, usually in October. It combines jazz music performances with diving expeditions to explore the island's pristine coral reefs and marine biodiversity. 

The festival features live jazz bands, sunset concerts, underwater photography exhibitions, and eco-tours that highlight Maratua's natural beauty and commitment to marine conservation efforts.

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