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When Is The Best Time To Visit Bali? Everything You Need To Know

Are you planning a trip to Bali soon? Here’s the ultimate guide to the best time to visit Bali.

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best time to visit bali

When Is The Best Time To Visit Bali?

Bali is magical all year round, with each season offering different weather conditions and experiences. However, certain times of the year are better for different activities activities.

For the best weather, you’ll want to visit Bali between May and September. For cheaper prices and less crowds, you’re better off visiting from February to April.

The Ideal Time To Visit Bali For Great Weather

While there is plenty to do in Bali that is not weather-dependent if you go specifically for outdoor activities, unpleasant weather can lead to canceled plans.

One of Bali’s biggest attractions is its breathtaking beaches! May to September is warm and dry, the perfect temperature for lazy days spent at the beach. If you are intrigued by the black, volcanic sand of Canggu, June to August brings the best weather to visit this small town. 

For those interested in diving, the months between April and October are best for this activity. Snorkeling is the best between April and September. Among diving and snorkeling, surfing is another popular activity in Bali, particularly in Uluwatu in the Southwest region.

The dry season brings clear skies, making it the ideal time for hiking in Bali. After all, what is a hike without the epic views at the top of the mountain? April to October is prime hiking time, but if you plan to do one of Bali’s most popular hikes, Mount Batur, it is best to go between May and September. 

If sightseeing is what draws you to Bali, you definitely won’t be disappointed! Ubud is known for its ancient temples, museums, and rich cultural landmarks, with a backdrop of lush tropical rainforests and rice paddies. Ubud is best experienced from June to October, during the dry season.

The Cheapest Time To Visit Bali

when to visit bali

While Bali is not the cheapest place in Southeast Asia, it is still very affordable compared to other countries. However, as with most countries, the prices of hotels and resorts can drop significantly during slower seasons.

Finding the cheapest time to visit allows you to splurge on things that you would not otherwise be able to. You won’t feel as bad about taking a few extra surf lessons when you’re saving money on transport and accommodations!

Bali’s wet season is less popular than its dry season. However, December and January are still busy due to the holidays. Towards the end of January, the majority of tourists start to leave. By February, the island is relatively quiet. 

The low season is from February to mid-May, but March to April are the quietest months for tourists and the cheapest time in Bali. During this time you will find the best deals on accommodation.

When To Visit Bali To Avoid Crowds

when should you visit bali

Bali’s exceptional natural beauty, range of activities, and affordability have made the island an extremely popular holiday destination.

Bali has become very crowded in the last few years, especially during peak tourist season.

Bali’s wet season is the best time to visit Bali if you want to avoid crowds. Specifically, February through April are the quietest times to visit the island.

Towards the end of March, when the wet season ends, tourists start to flock to Bali. By July and August, Bali is buzzing with tourists. July and August are also the summer school holidays of the northern hemisphere’s west, while Australia has its mid-term school holidays. 

December and January are another busy, crowded time in Bali. While it is still the wet season, December and January are Christmas and New Year irrespectively, and the summer school holidays of the southern hemisphere.

Many Europeans come to Bali during December and January to escape their icy winters and spend some time defrosting at the beach.

When Should You Not Go To Bali?

when to visit Bali

Just as the goal of your time in Bali will determine when to go, it will also determine when not to go. Are you going sightseeing or snorkeling? Each activity has a best and worst time. 

If you wish to avoid crowds and touristy things and experience a more authentic Bali, you should not go between peak tourist season.

While you can escape tourists by going off the beaten path, avoiding Bali during July, August, November, and December will allow you to enjoy a much more laid-back experience. 

Avoid the wet season for sightseeing and temple hopping, especially in January, the wettest month in Bali. Most temples are made of stone and can be very slippery and dangerous after a heavy downpour.

The wet season is should be avoided for anyone interested in diving and snorkeling. The heavy rains, occasional storms, and windy conditions can make the waters murky and not ideal for snorkeling. During bad weather, many of these activities get canceled.

When To Visit Bali – A Season By Season Breakdown

Unlike many other countries, Bali has only two seasons; a wet season and a dry season. As a tropical island, the temperate and humidity don’t change drastically throughout the year, but the wet season gets significantly more rain.

Wet Season In Bali – November To March (Rainy Season) 

The wet season is, as the name suggests, wet. Bali receives a lot of rain during this time, but most rainfall happens in short bursts that last only a few hours, usually in the afternoons and at night. 

Many mosquitos come with lots of rain, high temperatures, and high humidity! The wet season is therefore also known as mosquito season.

If you plan to visit Bali during the wet season, it is highly advisable to take malaria tablets. The chances of getting dengue fever or malaria are much higher during the wet season.

November and March are great times to visit for budget travelers as it is on the shoulder between the two seasons. The rainfall is not so much to interfere with any activities planned. The wet season is also great for visiting yoga retreats and relaxing at resorts.

Special Events During Wet Season

  • Galungan – November 
  • Nyepi – March 

Dry Season In Bali – April To October 

This is by far the most popular time to visit Bali. The weather is perfect for all outdoor activities, and the beaches are awe-inspiring. 

The dry season is the time to visit for outdoor enthusiasts, surfers, and beachgoers alike! April boasts the lowest humidity, the prices are low, and it is yoga time in Bali.

September and October are great times to visit if you want to visit during the dry season, but avoid the biggest crowds and the highest prices.

Special Events During Dry Season

  • Bali Spirit Festival in Ubud (yoga, music, and arts festival) – April
  • Bali Arts Festival – June and July
  • Indonesian Independence Day (Hari Merdeka) – August 17

Final Thoughts On The Best Time To Visit Bali

Bali has something unique to offer to everyone. While it is great visiting any time of the year, some times are better than others. When planning a trip to Bali, first decide what you wish to do or experience, and then pick the time of year that is best for that activity.

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