Lombok has two distinct seasons — dry and wet — and the timing of your trip matters significantly, particularly if Mount Rinjani trekking is on your list. This guide breaks down every month so Australians can plan the optimal visit.
For the complete Lombok planning guide, see our Lombok Travel Guide for Australians 2026.
Quick Answer: The Best Times
- Best overall: May, June, September, October
- Best for Rinjani trekking: April–October (park closed November–March)
- Best for beaches and Gili Islands: April–October
- Best for surfing: May–September (dry season swells)
- Best for budget: April–May and September–October (shoulder season)
- Avoid for Rinjani: November–March (park closed)
Month by Month Breakdown
| Month | Weather | Rinjani | Crowds | Value | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Wet season, heavy rain | Closed | Low | Cheap | ★★☆☆☆ |
| February | Wet season, heavy rain | Closed | Low | Cheap | ★★☆☆☆ |
| March | Wet season tapering | Closed | Low | Cheap | ★★★☆☆ |
| April | Drying out, some showers | Open (1 Apr) | Low-medium | Good value | ★★★★☆ |
| May | Dry season starts | Open | Medium | Excellent value | ★★★★★ |
| June | Dry, sunny, warm | Open | Medium-high | Good | ★★★★★ |
| July | Dry season peak | Open | Peak | Pricier | ★★★★☆ |
| August | Dry season peak | Open | Peak | Pricier | ★★★★☆ |
| September | Dry season, excellent | Open | Thinning | Excellent value | ★★★★★ |
| October | Dry season ending | Open | Low-medium | Excellent value | ★★★★★ |
| November | Wet season beginning | Closing | Low | Cheap | ★★★☆☆ |
| December | Wet season | Closed | Low-medium* | Moderate | ★★★☆☆ |
*December sees some domestic holiday traffic around Christmas/New Year.
Dry Season: April to October
This is Lombok's prime season. Days are warm and sunny (27–32°C), humidity is lower than Bali, and conditions are excellent across all activities — beaches, Rinjani, surfing, and Gili Islands diving.
April–May (Sweet Spot)
Rinjani has just reopened after the wet-season closure. Trails are firming up. The landscape is lush and green from recent rains. Crowds are significantly below the July–August peak. Accommodation prices are lower. This is arguably the best overall window for Australian visitors — excellent conditions, good value.
June–August (Peak Season)
The most reliable weather of the year. Rinjani conditions are at their best — dry trails, clear summit views. Accommodation prices are at their highest and Gili Trawangan can feel crowded. Australians travelling on school holidays will likely be visiting in this window — book accommodation 2–3 months ahead for July and August.
September–October (Sweet Spot)
Excellent conditions as the dry season continues, but crowds have thinned significantly after the August peak. Some accommodation and tour operators run shoulder-season pricing from September. Rinjani is still open. The south coast surf is still good. This is the other outstanding window for Australian visitors.
Wet Season: November to March
Lombok receives significant rainfall from November through March, peaking in January–February. Rinjani National Park closes (usually mid-November to end of March). The south coast surf is smaller and more beginner-friendly. The Gili Islands remain enjoyable — showers are typically sharp and followed by sunshine rather than days of continuous rain.
Is the Wet Season Worth Visiting?
If your trip doesn't include Rinjani: yes, with realistic expectations. Accommodation is cheaper, the island is less crowded, and many visitors find the wet season perfectly manageable. If Rinjani is the main purpose of your trip: avoid November–March entirely.
Lombok vs Bali: Seasonal Differences
Lombok's dry season is noticeably drier than Bali's — lower humidity and more reliable sunshine during the April–October window. This is part of Lombok's appeal: the same Indonesian geography but with a drier, more comfortable dry season climate.
When Australians Typically Travel
Australian school holiday patterns tend to push travellers toward:
- July school holidays: Peak season — most expensive and crowded
- September–October school holidays: Excellent timing — good conditions, lower prices
- Christmas–January: Wet season in Lombok — manageable for beaches, not for Rinjani
- Easter: April — good timing, Rinjani just reopened, shoulder season prices
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Lombok?
May, September, or October for the best combination of good weather, reasonable prices, and fewer crowds than peak season. June is also excellent if you don't mind slightly higher prices.
Can I visit Lombok in December or January?
Yes, but with caveats. Rinjani is closed, rain is frequent, and some beach days will be disrupted. The Gili Islands and beach activities are still doable between showers. Accommodation is cheaper.
When does Rinjani open and close?
Rinjani National Park typically closes in mid-November and reopens on 1 April. The 2026 reopening was 1 April. Always confirm current status with your operator before booking.