Planning to spend Christmas in Indonesia? This diverse archipelago offers a unique experience during the festive season, complete with tropical weather and cultural vibrancy. Before packing your bags, let’s explore what the weather is like in Indonesia in December and what you can expect across different regions.
Also read: Indonesia Christmas Celebration: Guide for Foreign Tourists
What Season Is Christmas in Indonesia?
Christmas in Indonesia falls during the wet season, a time marked by high rainfall and humidity. However, the country’s vast expanse—spanning over 17,000 islands—means that weather conditions can vary significantly between regions.
Also read: Who Celebrates Christmas in Indonesia: Celebrating Cultural Diversity
General Weather Overview
Here is an overview of the weather in Indonesia in December:
- Temperature: Warm and tropical temperatures dominate, ranging from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F). Highlands like those in Java and Bali are slightly cooler, with temperatures between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
- Rainfall: Coastal areas and western islands, including Bali, Java, and Sumatra, receive 150-250 mm (6-10 inches) of rainfall, while central and eastern islands may exceed 300 mm (12 inches).
- Sunshine: Despite frequent showers, 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day are common across many regions.
Also read: 9 Popular Christmas Songs in Indonesia
Regional Weather Highlights
Here is an overview of the weather in some parts of Indonesia in December:
Java
Java experiences heavy rain and thunderstorms in December, with cities like Jakarta facing potential flooding. Surabaya and East Java are slightly drier but still prone to intense downpours. Average temperatures are around 27°C (81°F).
Bali
Rainy season is in full swing, with short but intense rains punctuated by sunny intervals. Beaches in the south, like Seminyak and Jimbaran, may experience windy conditions, and sea currents can be rough. Temperatures average around 27°C (81°F), and the festive atmosphere makes it a popular destination despite the rain.
Nusa Tenggara (Lombok, Flores, Komodo)
Wet weather persists, but rainfall is interspersed with periods of sunshine. Average temperatures hover between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F), with high humidity levels, especially in Lombok.
Kalimantan (Borneo)
Rainfall occurs as intense downpours, but not as heavy as in neighboring Java. Temperatures remain consistent at around 27°C to 28°C (81°F to 82°F).
Sumatra
Sumatra continues its wet season, though rainfall begins to taper off in northern regions like Medan by late December. Temperatures average 27°C to 28°C (81°F to 82°F), with high humidity levels exceeding 80%.
Sulawesi
December brings heavy rains to the island as monsoon season peaks. Diving in areas like Manado Bay is discouraged due to rough seas and poor visibility. Average temperatures are around 28°C (82°F).
The Moluccas
The central islands enjoy warm, dry, and sunny days, while southern and northern islands experience overcast skies and rain. The Banda Islands see strong winds and rain, affecting boat transfers.
West Papua & Raja Ampat
While rainfall is sporadic, calm seas and good visibility make December a great time for diving in Raja Ampat. Daytime temperatures remain warm and consistent.
Also read; 8 Fun Facts About Christmas in Indonesia
Make sure your travel documents are ready for a hassle-free vacation in this beautiful tropical destination.
Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, relaxing on scenic beaches, or diving in world-class reefs, Indonesia offers an unforgettable Christmas experience—rain or shine!
If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia during the Christmas season, ensure you have the correct travel documentation.
Check out the full details in our guide on Indonesia Travel and Entry Requirements 2024 and Indonesia Customs Declaration Guide.
For visa purposes, you can enter using the Indonesia visa on arrival which is valid for a 30-day stay. Meanwhile, if you want to stay longer, you can extend the Indonesian visa on arrival or apply for an Indonesia tourist visa.
For a simpler visa application, you can rely on InvestinAsia’s Indonesia Visa service. Our professional team is ready to help you through the process to the end.
Contact us today for a FREE Consultation and special package!
