Weather in Indonesia in December

Indonesia in December is notorious for its rain showers, which can be heavy but usually short-lived. Mornings often start bright and sunny, ideal for early adventures, but by midday, clouds gather, promising a refreshing drenching. If you’re ready to experience the monsoon season, discover Indonesia with Rough Guides – here’s our guide to the weather in Indonesia in December.

Indonesia in December at a glance

• The weather in Indonesia in December is characterized by warm, wet, and humid weather, especially in coastal areas. 
• It marks the peak of the monsoon season in most parts of the country. 
• Average temperatures range from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C).
• Tourist crowds in December can vary depending on the specific destination. Most parts of Indonesia will experience fewer crowds and costs.
• Popular spots might see a surge especially during the Christmas and New Year period. 

What is the weather like in Indonesia in December?

Indonesia experiences its peak rainy season during this month due to its tropical climate. Although December coincides with the festive season and offers generally warm temperatures, it also marks a significant increase in rainfall.

Across Indonesia, rainfall averages vary considerably, typically from 200 to 400 mm. That's a lot of rain, which keeps the landscapes a fantastic green but might dampen your plans for beach days or hikes.

Transportation, particularly in rural or island areas, may be affected by occasional flooding and slower travel due to wet conditions on roads.

Overall, December is not the best time to visit Indonesia because of the heavy rainfall and potential disruptions to travel plans. However, it could be a budget-friendly option if you don't mind the rain and prefer quieter tourist spots. Just be sure to prepare with rain gear and an adaptable itinerary.

Read all about the best time to visit Indonesia.

Average daily temperatures in December

Daytime temperatures in December typically reach around 88°F (31°C). The weather this month is warm and humid interspersed with frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms. At night, temperatures cool down to about 77°F (25°C).

Compared to the dry season months (June to October), December sees a significant increase in rainfall and cloud cover, leading to more variable and potentially wet weather. Sea temperatures remain warm, averaging around 82°F (28°C).

The weather in Jakarta and Java

Jakarta and Java experience warm and rainy weather in December, with daytime temperatures averaging around 84°F (29°C). Humidity levels are high, and rainfall is frequent and heavy, often accompanied by thunderstorms. The wet conditions nourish Java's agricultural lands and rainforests, making December a month of lush greenery but also occasional disruptions to outdoor activities due to persistent rain.

The weather in Bali and the Lesser Sunda Islands

In December, Bali and the Lesser Sunda Islands, including Lombok and Flores,  have temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). The islands experience significant rainfall throughout the month, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms. Humidity levels remain high.

The weather in Sumatra

Sumatra in December sees temperatures between 73°F and 82°F (23°C and 28°C). Coastal areas like Medan and Padang experience heavy rainfall, contributing to the peak of the wet season. Inland regions receive substantial precipitation, maintaining the island's rainforests and supporting its diverse wildlife. December is characterized by humid conditions and persistent rain showers that enrich Sumatra's natural environments.

The weather in Papua and eastern Indonesia

Papua and eastern Indonesia, including Sulawesi and the Moluccas, have temperatures ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C) in December. The region experiences heavy rainfall as the wet season continues, with humidity levels remaining high. Persistent showers are common, particularly in mountainous areas and rainforests, creating challenging yet fertile conditions that sustain the region's biodiversity and cultural richness.

Is December a good time to visit Indonesia?

December can be a mixed bag for travelers considering a trip to Indonesia. The weather in Indonesia in December signals the start of the rainy season, characterized by frequent, heavy downpours that typically occur in the afternoon or evening. 

While the temperatures remain comfortably warm, the rain can disrupt outdoor plans and make some areas more humid and muddy. For sun-seekers or those who prefer dry weather, this might not be the ideal time to visit. 

However, the rain brings a lush vibrancy to the landscape, making destinations like Bali, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta particularly beautiful and green. 

Swimming is still possible, especially in coastal regions where the sea remains warm and inviting. If you don't mind occasional rain, you can enjoy Indonesia's rich cultural experiences, such as Christmas celebrations in Christian-majority areas and end-of-year festivities nationwide. 

Indoor activities like visiting museums, art galleries, and exploring Indonesia’s culinary scene are also great alternatives during rainy spells.

Decided to book a December break? For further inspiration, discover more of the best places to visit in December.

What about the crowd & cost?

In December, Indonesia experiences a mix of crowds and costs that can vary depending on the specific destination within the country. Generally, tourist traffic is moderately high during December due to the vacation season and pleasant weather in many parts of Indonesia (despite the rain). Popular tourist spots such as Bali, Yogyakarta, and Jakarta tend to see increased visitor numbers during this time, leading to somewhat higher accommodation prices and more crowded attractions.

Cost-wise, while Indonesia is generally affordable for travelers throughout the year, December might see slightly inflated prices for accommodations and activities, especially in highly touristic areas. However, compared to peak tourist seasons in other countries, Indonesia remains relatively budget-friendly.

For those looking to avoid larger crowds and possibly find better deals, other months such as April to October are recommended. During these months, Indonesia experiences dry seasons in many regions, making it way more ideal for outdoor activities and exploration with fewer tourists compared to the December vacation season.

Festivals and events in Indonesia in December

When planning your trip to Indonesia, be sure to look for the many festivals and events that may coincide with your visit. It's advisable to book accommodations early, as they often fill up quickly. For additional trip ideas and recommendations, check out see our Indonesia trip ideas.

Denpasar Festival

Denpasar Festival is an annual cultural event held in Denpasar, Bali. It celebrates Balinese arts, culture, and culinary traditions through art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, music concerts, fashion shows, and culinary showcases. 

Denpasar Festival aims to promote tourism in Bali's capital city while preserving and showcasing the island's cultural heritage and artistic talents.

Djakarta Warehouse Project

The Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP) is one of Asia's largest electronic dance music festivals, held annually in Jakarta. It features performances by top international DJs and electronic music artists, attracting thousands of music enthusiasts from around the world. DWP is known for its elaborate stage designs, light shows, and immersive music experiences.

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve celebrations in Indonesia are festive and lively, with cities and tourist destinations hosting special events, fireworks displays, and parties to welcome the new year. 

Popular spots such as Jakarta, Bali, Yogyakarta, and Bandung come alive with street performances, music concerts, countdown events, and spectacular fireworks lighting up the skies. Indonesians gather with family and friends to celebrate the transition to the new year with joyous festivities.

Pemuteran Bay Festival

Pemuteran Bay Festival is a community-based marine conservation and cultural event held in Pemuteran, North Bali, usually in December. It aims to raise awareness about marine conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices through educational programs, beach clean-ups, coral reef restoration activities, and traditional ceremonies. 

The festival includes cultural performances, eco-friendly tours, and workshops on marine biodiversity, attracting both locals and international visitors.

Iraw Tengkayu

Iraw Tengkayu is an annual cultural festival held in Tarakan, North Kalimantan, usually in December. It celebrates the cultural diversity and maritime heritage of Tarakan through traditional dance performances, music concerts, boat races, culinary exhibitions, and cultural exhibitions. 

Plan your trip with our Indonesia itineraries

Our Indonesia itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.