Bali weather travel considerations

Visiting Bali? Take your pick of the island’s three climates: hot, hot, or hot.

All kidding aside, Bali is perfect for beach loungers, student partiers and senior cruisers alike – if you pick the right time to travel, that is. Follow our guide to the best travel times for your climate considerations to ensure your island getaway is exactly as you planned.

Travel seasons

Travel patterns to Bali hold quite steady, which is probably because weather patterns hold steady, too. No matter which travel season you choose to visit Bali, there is an activity for everyone. Avoid the crowds in the low season or lounge on bustling beaches in the high season; no mater when you go, there is no wrong way to visit Bali.

High season

In July and August, tourist numbers across Bali spike, which usually means rates spike, too. This is Bali’s dry season, but plan ahead and travel wisely as prices may increase by 50%. Temperatures remain consistent year-round on this island (sitting around 28°C), but the air is less humid during the high season.

Shoulder season

This is arguably the best time to travel to Bali. In May, June and September crowds die down, but the weather stays nice. While you should expect a bit of balminess in the air, this time of year especially attracts Aussies, as they are better acclimated to slightly humid climates. Travel more spontaneously during these months, as fares are low.

Low season

If you’re looking to relax on the beach, avoid Bali from October to April. This is the wet season, which means rain almost every day. It’s easy to find great deals, but it’s hard to take part in any of the island’s popular activities. If you’re looking to travel to eastern parts of Indonesia such as Papua, though, this is the best time to travel, as these islands remain dry.

Geography

Bali has a tropical wet and dry climate classification. This means that hot, humid weather usually fills the Island. Though there is little temperature change throughout the year (usually ranging between 23°C and 33°C), fluctuations in precipitation mean that some seasons are not travel friendly. Stay away during the low season unless you bring an umbrella. During this time, temperatures are not extreme, but the heat combined with the rain make for a very uncomfortable experience for travellers not used to extreme humidity.

Travelling between Australia and Bali can also be difficult during what meteorologists call cyclone season. In an average season, cyclones threaten this area between November and April. If you make travel plans during these months, be prepared for potential travel delays. Consider flight cancellation insurance in case rain-related events change your travel plans.

Image courtesy of Flickr user Joan Campderrós-i-Canas; cropped from original