15 June 2017
Staying in family home and trekking at the Sekumpul Waterfalls …
Experience the authentic charm of Bali’s north by trekking through lush jungle and staying with welcoming local famil...
1 April 2015
Best time to visit Indonesia for Holidays
Indonesia offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures and experiences across its numerous islands, making it an ideal destination to discover all year round. Choosing the best period for your stay depends on the seasons, festivals and the experiences you are seeking.
When to Travel: Seasons and Climate
Indonesia invites you to experience a journey of a thousand faces throughout the year. The best time for a trip to Indonesia is during the dry season, from May to September, when you can enjoy sunny days and minimal rainfall across most of the archipelago. This period is especially pleasant for outdoor adventures and beach escapes. July and August mark the peak tourist influx, so traveling in May, June, or September allows you to enjoy ideal weather with fewer crowds. The rainy season, from October to April, brings lush landscapes and calmer spots; if you prefer quiet and don’t mind occasional showers, this off-peak period also offers attractive prices and a more intimate discovery of Indonesian culture.
Visa and Entry Formalities
Before departure, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date, with at least one blank page. Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival for $35 (check your eligibility based on nationality). Always verify current requirements on official government websites or at your embassy, as regulations may evolve. For travelers from the UK, refer to the Indonesian Embassy's consular page.
Health and Vaccinations
There are generally no compulsory vaccines to enter Indonesia, except for yellow fever for travelers coming from affected regions. Standard travel vaccinations such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine immunizations are strongly advised. Malaria risk is low in Java and Bali but higher in Papua and Maluku—consult a healthcare professional for prophylaxis advice. Carry good mosquito repellent and practice usual health precautions.
Currency and Money Matters
The Indonesian rupiah (IDR) is the official currency, and cash is the main way of payment in most areas. ATMs are widely available in cities. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check the latest conversion before your trip and consider withdrawing local currency at the airport for convenience.
Highlighting the Festive Seasons
Spring Holidays: Rebirth and Creativity
Celebrate spring between April and June, as Indonesia moves into its dry season. The weather is especially superb from Java to Bali and Flores Komodo, though occasional rain may still touch Sulawesi and Sumatra. This is festival time—don’t miss the renowned jazz festival in Java, the Yogyakarta Arts Festival, and the unforgettable Buddhist ‘Waisak’ celebration at Borobudur. Enjoy tranquil rice fields, volcano treks, and emerging cultural vibrancy.
Summer Holidays: Adventure Awaits
Indonesian summer offers perfect weather for exploring with friends and family. July and August welcome lively crowds, so seek lesser-known paths for an authentic escape. On August 17, the archipelago celebrates Independence Day with parades and vibrant gatherings. In Sulawesi, experience the unique Tana Toraja rituals. Demand soars in this high season—customize your journey for rare explorations from Java’s heartlands to the treasures of Bali and beyond.
Thanksgiving and Autumn: Calm and Inspiration
As autumn arrives, Indonesia enjoys gentle winds and sunny days, ideal for romantic getaways and tranquil travel. Head to Bali, Java, or Komodo for sun and serenity, and catch the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival for literary celebrations and culinary surprises. This is an excellent time for couples and honeymooners—perhaps for your honeymoon in Bali.
Christmas and Winter: Unique Family Moments
The festive season in Indonesia brings intermittent rains, especially in Lombok and Sulawesi, but Bali, Java, and Komodo often remain welcoming and lively. Revel in Bali’s New Year festivities, with beach parties and gourmet dinners, or choose a more peaceful family Christmas in a Balinese village, atop a volcanic peak, or on a cruise among the mythical dragons of Komodo. For inspiration, explore ideas for Christmas holidays that promise unforgettable experiences.
Off-Season Discovery: Tranquility and Savings
Traveling outside school holidays opens up authentic opportunities in Indonesia—lower airfares, better hotel deals, and uncrowded temples and parks. Off-season gems include April, May-June, and late September-October. Savor cultural marvels and unspoilt landscapes at your own pace.
Final Recommendations
No matter when you choose to travel, Indonesia’s charm is ever-present. From orangutans in Sumatra to volcanoes in Java, idyllic beaches in the Gili Islands, and the artistic pulse of Ubud, every season is the right season for discovery. Let Shanti Travel design your dream trip to Indonesia, tailored to your desires and timing. Our team is ready to guide you toward unforgettable memories in this extraordinary archipelago.
