December in Indonesia is part of the rainy season and also a busy travel period due to Christmas, New Year, and school holidays. Cities feel more festive, especially shopping malls and public spaces, which are decorated with Christmas lights and seasonal ornaments from early December.
The first half of the month is generally calmer, while crowds increase toward the end of December, so planning ahead is important.
In this guide, you’ll find an overview of the weather, plus recommendations on where to go—and what to avoid—when traveling in Indonesia in December.
Weather in December
December is part of the rainy season in Indonesia. Some areas experience heavy rainfall, while others remain relatively stable. Weather conditions can vary significantly from one region to another, so flexibility is important when planning your trip.
It’s also important to be cautious in disaster-prone areas. In December, natural events such as landslides, flooding, or even volcanic activity can occur in certain regions. Always monitor weather forecasts and disaster updates through official platforms like BMKG.
In recent years, climate change and deforestation have contributed to the formation of cyclonic systems over the Indian Ocean. Because of this, December is generally not an ideal time for island hopping. Sea conditions can be unpredictable, with strong waves and rough waters, so overland travel is usually a safer option during this month.
Crowds and Cost
From early to mid-December, crowd levels are generally moderate and still fairly quiet, as school holidays and Christmas breaks have not yet started. Crowds usually increase from the third week of December through early January, when school holidays begin and Christmas public holidays take place. If Christmas falls on a Thursday or Friday, it often creates a long weekend, making this period especially busy for local travelers.
In terms of expenses, flight prices and accommodation rates are usually still reasonable before the holiday rush begins. Food prices, however, may be slightly higher, as the cost of basic goods often increases toward the end of the year.
Places to Visit in December
For traveling in December, I recommend focusing on Java—especially Central Java, Yogyakarta, and East Java. Rainfall in these areas is usually not too intense, and crowds are still manageable, particularly from early to mid-December. However, if you’re traveling around the 20th onward, it’s better to skip Yogyakarta, as it’s a favorite destination for families and can become very crowded with heavy traffic during the holiday period.
Planning a trip to East Java and looking for a hidden gem? Don’t miss our Tiga Warna Beach, Malang: A Hidden Gem Worth a Visit.
Other destinations worth visiting include Purwokerto, where you can explore several refreshing waterfalls, and Magelang, which tends to be greener during this season. East Java is also a good option, with places like Banyuwangi and Malang offering a mix of nature and culture.
The city of Surakarta (Solo) feels especially lively in December, with Christmas decorations lining the streets around City Hall. It offers a unique experience, including a visit to Pasar Gede, a traditional market known for herbal ingredients and local food. Solo is also great for walking tours, with historical sites such as the royal palace and other cultural landmarks.
For more details, you can read: Surakarta (Solo) Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See, and Eat.
In Sumatra, southern regions like Bandar Lampung, Palembang, and Belitung are relatively comfortable to explore in December.
Bali is also an option, but to avoid crowds, it’s better to explore central or northern areas of the island. Further east, Sumba has its own unique charm, where you can visit traditional villages with daily local activities and nearby megalithic sites.
Also read about: Waikabubak, Sumba: Travel Guide Full of Local Tips.
If you want to slow down even more, exploring Sumbawa can be a pleasant experience. The island is known for its wild horses, wide grasslands, and hidden gems like Moyo Island.
Places to Avoid in December
As a large country with more than 17,000 islands, some parts of Indonesia are less ideal for travel in December. This is mainly due to heavy rainfall and a higher risk of natural disasters such as flooding, landslides, volcanic eruptions, and rough sea conditions.
Last year, northern parts of Sumatra—such as Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra—experienced flash floods and landslides caused by extreme weather combined with severe deforestation. November to December is considered the peak rainy season in northern Sumatra, so it’s best to avoid these areas during this period.
Some people may recommend traveling to eastern Indonesia, such as sailing around Komodo Island or visiting Papua. However, due to climate change, sea conditions can be unstable. In Komodo Island, the impact of mass tourism has also led to several ‘pinisi’ boat accidents in recent years, often caused by boats sailing despite extreme sea conditions. It’s advisable to avoid southern Papua, where sea waves tend to be higher. On the other hand, Raja Ampat is generally still considered safe, depending on current weather conditions.
You should also stay alert to volcanic activity. In December last year, there were several eruptions from active volcanoes such as Mount Merapi and Mount Semeru in Java. It’s best to avoid hiking active volcanoes during this month. Always monitor official updates on volcanic activity through platforms like magma.esdm.go.id before planning your trip.
Also read: How to See Lava on Merapi Volcano at Night.
Tips for Traveling in December
- Book early, especially if you’re traveling after mid-December. Christmas, New Year, and school holidays mean limited availability and higher prices.
- Keep your plans flexible. Rain usually doesn’t last all day, but schedules can change quickly.
- Always carry rain protection—a lightweight poncho or rain jacket goes a long way.
- Wear proper footwear. Non-slip shoes or sandals are important during the rainy season.
- Don’t rush between destinations. Traffic and weather delays are common in December.
- Be extra careful with boat trips. Sea conditions can change fast, so always check the forecast.
- Follow local updates. BMKG and local guides often give more accurate, real-time information.
- Choose accommodation wisely, preferably in areas with good road access and drainage.
Travel smart, slow down a bit, and December in Indonesia can still be a great experience.
Backindo Tip: Need a reliable driver in Java? We can share contacts of trusted locals we know personally – just drop us an email at hello@backindo.com.
Final Thoughts
December may not be the easiest month to travel in Indonesia, but it can still be a rewarding one if you plan it right. The rainy season and holiday crowds require a bit more flexibility, but in return you’ll experience a festive atmosphere, greener landscapes, and a different side of the country.
If you travel early in the month, avoid risky destinations, and stay updated on weather conditions, December can be a great time to explore cities, culture, and slower travel experiences. Take it easy, adjust your plans when needed, and enjoy Indonesia at a calmer pace—even during the rainy season.
How about Other Months?
We summarized it all in our other articles: