Bottom line first: June and September are the best months to visit all year round (travel suitability index hits 100%—dry, comfortable, and fewer tourists); December has the lowest index (only 50%) due to frequent rain and the peak Christmas holiday crowds, making it better for indoor activities. Rainfall in Bali also varies by region—eastern/northern areas and mountains see more rain than lowlands, and it’s rare for the entire island to rain at once.
Before answering one of the most common questions in our two Facebook groups—‘Bali/Indonesia Food & Fun’ and ‘Go Bali Go Bali Travel’—here’s a quick chart to help you understand:
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When interpreting the data in this chart, keep the following points in mind:
Average Rainfall Probability
‘Average rainfall probability’ refers to the likelihood of rain occurring in a specific area and time frame, usually expressed as a percentage. For example, if the forecast says a 30% chance of rain in a certain area, it means that under similar conditions, rain has occurred 30% of the time in the past. Note that rainfall probability does not indicate the duration or intensity of rain, nor does it mean it will rain 30% of the time in that area. When interpreting rainfall probability, understand that it only represents the chance of precipitation, not the extent of it.
Rain Days
‘Rain days’ refer to the number of days in which at least one rainfall event occurs within a 24-hour period. Typically, a day is counted as a rain day if the total precipitation reaches 0.1 millimeters or more. Therefore, rain days tally the total number of days with rainfall over a given period. Note that rain days do not reflect the intensity or duration of the rain. For example, if a location experiences rain on 5 days in a month, with each rainfall exceeding 0.1 mm, the rain days for that month are 5.
Temperature Explained
The ‘average temperature’ is the actual measured air temperature, while the ‘feels-like’ temperature is how hot or cold the human body perceives it, influenced by humidity, wind speed, and sunlight. For example, at the same 30°C, high humidity makes it feel more muggy, while a breeze can make it feel cooler.
Travel Suitability Index
The ‘Travel Suitability Index’ is a comprehensive recommendation based on factors like rainfall probability, number of rainy days, average temperature, and tourist crowds on the island for each month. A higher score indicates more stable weather, fewer visitors, and better conditions for outdoor activities. For instance, June and September score 100%, meaning dry, pleasant weather with fewer tourists—ideal for travel. In contrast, December scores only 50% due to frequent rain and peak crowds during the Christmas holidays, making indoor activities more advisable. This index helps travelers quickly gauge whether the weather and crowd levels for a given month are ideal.
Quick Reference: Bali Has Five Peak Seasons! How to Travel Smart and Avoid Crowds?
It Doesn’t Usually Rain Across the Whole Island
In Bali, rainfall distribution is influenced by terrain, with the eastern and northern regions often seeing rain, and mountainous areas more prone to precipitation than lowlands. So, even during the rainy season, some areas may be basking in sunshine while others experience rain. It’s very rare for the entire island to rain at the same time.
What is a Rainy Season Backup Plan?
A ‘Rainy Season Backup Plan’ refers to a ‘Plan B’ that allows you to quickly switch your itinerary when planned outdoor activities are interrupted by rain. Check out our collection of 60 Rainy Day Backup Plans for Bali
Popular Outdoor Activities in Bali
- Nusa Lembongan & Manta Bay Snorkeling Experience
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- Bali UNESCO Heritage Day Tour: Taman Ayun, Jatiluwih & Tanah Lot
- Seminyak Beach Horse Riding Experience
- Bali Instagram Tour with Professional Photographer
- Tanah Lot Sunset Tour (Optional Chinese-Speaking Guide)
- Tanjung Benoa Watersports: Wide Range of Activities
- Bali Surfing Guide: Beaches for All Skill Levels
- Gates of Heaven Sunset Private Tour: Lempuyang & Tirta Gangga
- Bali Water Activities Deals on Klook
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