Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting millions of visitors each year. However, before planning your trip, it is important to understand the island’s weather, climate, and seasons, as they can greatly impact your experience.

Here’s what you need to know:

When is the best time to visit Bali?

When planning a trip to Bali, the weather and climate are important factors to consider.

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to September.

During this time, the weather is generally sunny, warm, and relatively dry, with lower humidity levels and cooler temperatures in the evenings.

However, the best time to visit Bali may also depend on school holidays or public holidays, as this can affect the prices of accommodation and airfares, as well as the level of crowding in tourist areas.

For those who want to avoid the crowds and save some money, mid-season months like May, June, and September may be the perfect time to visit Bali.

During these months, the weather is still dry, and there are usually fewer tourists than during the high season months of July and August.

Room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during high season, and many shops offer sales and promotions.

Restaurants are also less crowded in these mid-season months, and Bali generally has a more relaxed atmosphere.

It is important to note that Bali’s weather can vary depending on the location on the island.

The mountains of Bali have a cooler climate with lower temperatures, while the coastal areas can be more humid and prone to rainfall.

The rainy season in Bali typically runs from October to March, with November being the wettest month of the year.

In summary, the best time to visit Bali is during the dry season from April to September, but mid-season months like May, June, and September can also be a great time to visit for those who want to avoid the crowds and save money.

It’s also important to consider the location on the island, as the climate can vary from region to region.

Month	Max Temp and Avg. Total Rain Days In a Month	Rainfall Height	Season
January	26°C, 78°F, 27	34.5 cm	Rainy Season
February	26°C, 78°F, 22	27.4 cm	Rainy Season
March	26.5°C, 79°F, 20	23.4 cm	Changing Season
April	27°C, 80°F, 9	8.8 cm	Dry season
May	28°C, 82°F, 8	9.3 cm	Dry season
June	26.5°C, 79°F, 6	5.3 cm	Dry season
July	26.5°C, 79°F, 4	5.5 cm	Dry season
August	26.5°C, 79°F, 4	2.5 cm	Dry season
September	26.5°C, 79°F, 8	4.7 cm	Dry season
October	27°C, 80°F, 12	6.3 cm	Changing Season
November	27°C, 80°F, 17	17.9 cm	Rainy Season

When is High/Peak Season in Bali?

Bali is a popular destination among tourists from all over the world. The island is famous for its scenic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich culture.

However, Bali can get crowded during peak season, which is important to keep in mind when planning your visit.

The high/peak season in Bali falls between July and August and during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

During this time, the island experiences a surge in tourists, and prices for accommodation, transportation, and activities tend to be higher compared to other times of the year.

If you’re planning to visit Bali during peak season, it’s essential to book your accommodation and activities well in advance to avoid missing out on your preferred options.

However, if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, it’s best to avoid the popular tourist areas like Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu during this time.

As an alternative, you can explore other parts of Bali that are less crowded and offer a more laid-back atmosphere.

For instance, Amed is a charming coastal village located in the eastern part of Bali that is known for its excellent diving and snorkeling spots.

Tulamben is another coastal village in the northeast of Bali that is famous for its shipwreck diving sites.

If you’re looking for a serene and secluded retreat, Lovina, located in the northern part of Bali, is an excellent choice.

The West Bali Area, which includes the areas of Negara, Gilimanuk, and Medewi, is also a less crowded alternative that offers a more rustic experience with its unspoiled beaches, rice fields, and traditional villages.

Overall, while Bali is a great destination to visit year-round, it’s essential to keep in mind the high/peak season and its impact on prices and crowds.

By planning your trip carefully and exploring alternative areas, you can enjoy Bali’s beauty and culture without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

When is Dry Season in Bali?

Bali’s dry season, which lasts from April to September, is considered the best time to visit the island.

During this time, the weather is sunny, warm, and relatively dry, with lower humidity levels and cooler temperatures in the evenings.

With temperatures ranging between 80-90°F (27-32°C) and humidity levels being relatively low, the dry season brings a nice and cool breeze which makes it very pleasant to enjoy outdoor activities.

The dry season is the most popular time for tourists to visit Bali as the weather is sunny and dry with little chance of rain.

Beaches are generally clean and Bali shows its pretty side. However, occasional rainfall can still be expected during this time.

It is, in general, the warmest time of the year, but the lower humidity makes it more comfortable than the rainy season.

The skies are usually clear and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, water sports, trekking, and beach parties.

If you have the choice, it is better to avoid traditionally rainy months to minimize the risk of bad weather and come to Bali during the dry season.

Moreover, Bali has many festivals and events during this period, such as Bali Arts Festival and Bali Kites Festival, which provide a unique experience to visitors.

Overall, Bali’s dry season is the best time to visit for those who want to enjoy the island’s outdoor activities and natural beauty.

However, it is essential to book accommodation and activities in advance, as prices can be higher, and places can be crowded during this peak season.

When is Rainy Season in Bali?

Bali’s rainy season is not the most popular time to visit the island due to the frequent rainfall and higher humidity levels.

The rainy season in Bali runs from October to March, with November to March being the months with the most rainfall.

During this time, it is important to be prepared for wet conditions and plan indoor activities in case of heavy rainfall.

However, if you don’t mind a little rain, the rainy season can be a great time to visit Bali as the island’s lush tropical landscape is especially beautiful during this time.

The vibrant green rice terraces and the jungle covered in mist create a magical atmosphere that is worth seeing.

Temperatures during the rainy season are still warm, typically ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C).

Although the island receives most of its annual rainfall during this time, it doesn’t rain all day, usually, there are short spells of rain that might last a couple of hours in the afternoon and during nights.

It’s still possible to enjoy many outdoor activities during this time of the year, such as hiking, exploring waterfalls, or visiting temples.

One thing to keep in mind during the rainy season is that the beaches and sea in the south of Bali, such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu, can be quite dirty due to debris and trash washed onto the shore, especially during December, January, and February.

If you plan to visit Bali during the rainy season, it’s best to check the weather forecast and choose your activities and destinations accordingly.

On the other hand, the rainy season can be a good time to enjoy quieter and less crowded streets and attractions, as Bali sees fewer tourists during this time.

Plus, you can often find lower prices for accommodation, transportation, and activities.

In summary, while the rainy season in Bali may not be the most popular time to visit, it can still be a great time to enjoy Bali’s lush green landscapes, quieter streets and attractions, and lower prices. Just be prepared for wet conditions and plan accordingly.

The Mountainous Region of Bali Climate

Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods,” is a tropical paradise with a warm and humid climate that is perfect for beach vacations.

However, Bali is not just about beaches; it also offers stunning mountainous regions, including several active volcanoes, which are popular destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

The central mountain area of Bali, including regions such as UBUD, SIDEMEN, and BATUKARU, is typically cooler and gets more rain than the lower coastal areas. Temperatures can drop significantly at night in the highlands near the volcanoes, offering a more comfortable climate than the hot and humid coastal areas.

Lots Of Volcano Exist

The mountains of Bali, including Mount Batur and Mount Agung, are popular destinations for hikers and offer breathtaking views of the island.

Mount Agung is the highest volcano on Bali, standing at 3,142 meters above sea level, and is an active volcano that has erupted several times in recent history, with the most recent major eruption occurring in 2017.

The volcano is also an important cultural and spiritual site for the Balinese, believed to be the home of the gods. Mount Batur, located in the northern part of Bali, is an active volcano that last erupted in 2000 and is known for its beautiful caldera lake, a popular spot for swimming and boating.

Mount Merbuk and Mount Abang are also volcanoes located in Bali, standing at 1,142 meters and 2,151 meters above sea level, respectively. Mount Merbuk is an inactive volcano and not considered a popular tourist destination, while Mount Abang is an inactive volcano that can be reached by hiking in around 2.5 hours.

Mount Batukaru is another volcano located in the central part of Bali, standing at 2,276 meters above sea level. It is an active volcano but has not erupted in recorded history. It is a popular destination for trekking and hiking, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush rainforests, rice terraces ( such as Tegallalang ), and waterfalls.

The summit of the volcano is also home to the Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, one of the most important temples in Bali and considered sacred by the local people. The volcano is located in the Tabanan Regency of Bali and is surrounded by the Batukaru mountain range, also known as the “Garden of Bali.”

The area around the mountain is a protected area and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many rare and endemic species. Mount Batukaru is known for its cool and misty climate, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the heat and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Bali.

Central Part Is More Cooler

The climate in Bali’s mountainous regions is cooler than in the lowlands, with temperatures dropping by about 10 degrees Celsius for every 1000-meter increase in elevation.

The temperature in Ubud, for example, is typically around 75-85°F (24-29°C) throughout the year, which is cooler than the coast.

Bali’s warm and humid climate and beautiful scenery make it a destination worth exploring year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from April to September.

However, tourists should be prepared for high season crowds and higher prices during July to August and Christmas and New Year.

All of the volcanoes in Bali and Lombok are considered sacred by the local people and are often sites of religious ceremonies and offerings.

Visitors should be aware that all of these volcanoes are active, and there may be restrictions on access during times of increased volcanic activity.

It’s important to be prepared, have proper equipment, and follow the guidance of a local guide, as the trek can be challenging at times, and the path may be slippery, especially during the rainy season. However, for those who are up for the challenge, hiking the mountains of Bali can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Popular For Hiking

Mount Batur, located in the northern part of Bali, is one of the most popular destinations for hikers and trekkers. It offers a stunning view of the sunrise from its peak and the surrounding landscapes, including its beautiful caldera lake. The trek to the summit takes around two hours, and it is best to start early in the morning to avoid the heat and catch the sunrise.

Another popular mountain in Bali is Mount Agung, the highest volcano on the island standing at 3,142 meters above sea level. It is an active volcano and an important cultural and spiritual site for the Balinese people. The trek to the summit of Mount Agung is challenging and requires a good level of fitness and experience, but it offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean.

Apart from hiking, the mountainous regions of Bali offer a cooler and more comfortable climate than the lowlands, making them a great place to escape the heat and humidity of the coast. The temperature in Ubud, for example, is typically around 75-85°F (24-29°C) throughout the year, which is cooler than the coastal areas such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Ubud, located in the central mountain area of Bali, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is home to many art galleries, museums, and cultural performances such as Balinese dances and gamelan music. The town is surrounded by rice paddies, lush rainforests, and scenic waterfalls, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and experience the local way of life.

Other popular regions in the mountainous areas of Bali include Sidemen and Batukaru. Sidemen, located in the eastern part of Bali, is known for its stunning rice terraces and traditional villages, while Batukaru, located in the central part of Bali, is famous for its cool and misty climate and beautiful trekking routes.

In conclusion, Bali’s mountainous regions offer a unique and rewarding experience for travelers who want to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From hiking the volcanoes of Bali to experiencing the local way of life in Ubud, the mountainous regions of Bali offer something for everyone. Just remember to be prepared, follow the guidance of a local guide, and respect the local culture and traditions.