Lombok in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Lombok
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Transition month between dry and wet seasons - fewer crowds at major attractions but still excellent weather for outdoor activities
- Ideal water visibility for diving and snorkeling around Gili Islands - calm seas with 20-25m (65-82 ft) visibility before monsoon arrives
- Local harvest festivals and Sasak cultural celebrations throughout the month - experience authentic village life during rice harvest season
- Perfect hiking conditions on Mount Rinjani - cooler morning temperatures 18-22°C (64-72°F) and clear views before afternoon cloud cover
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms increase in frequency - expect 20-30 minute downpours around 2-4pm on 10 days of the month
- Some coastal roads experience minor flooding during heavy rains - plan flexible transportation schedules for south coast areas
- Higher humidity makes midday activities feel more intense - temperatures feel like 35-37°C (95-99°F) during peak sun hours
Best Activities in October
Gili Islands Diving and Snorkeling Tours
October offers the last month of truly exceptional underwater visibility before monsoon season affects water clarity. Morning departures 7-8am avoid afternoon storms and provide calm seas. Water temperature stays comfortable at 27-29°C (81-84°F). Turtle spotting at Gili Meno reaches peak activity during this transition period.
Mount Rinjani Crater Rim Trekking
October provides the sweet spot for Rinjani hiking - dry trails from the previous months but cooler morning temperatures before November heat builds. Start predawn at 3am to reach Senaru Crater Rim by sunrise, avoiding afternoon cloud cover. Clear views of Segara Anak Lake guaranteed on 80% of October mornings.
Traditional Sasak Village Cultural Tours
October coincides with rice harvest season in central Lombok - witness authentic village life during panen raya (great harvest). Visit Sade, Ende, and Sukarara villages during morning hours 8-11am when weaving and farming activities are most active. Afternoon cultural performances move indoors during rain season.
South Coast Surfing and Beach Adventures
October brings consistent southeast swells to Kuta, Tanjung Aan, and Selong Belanak beaches. Morning sessions 6-9am offer offshore winds and smaller crowds. Intermediate surfers find perfect 1-2m (3-6 ft) waves. Afternoon beach time requires covered areas due to UV index 8 and potential rain showers.
Sekotong Peninsula Island Hopping
October offers calm morning seas for exploring Sekotong's smaller islands - Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis. Crystal clear water for snorkeling and pristine beaches with minimal development. Morning tours 8am-2pm return before afternoon weather builds up in the western peninsula.
Senggigi Sunset and Night Market Food Tours
October evenings provide spectacular sunset viewing from Senggigi Beach with clear western horizons before wet season clouds arrive. Post-sunset night markets come alive with seasonal specialties including fresh corn harvest and traditional ayam taliwang. Covered market areas provide shelter from occasional evening showers.
October Events & Festivals
Panen Raya Rice Harvest Festival
Traditional Sasak celebration marking the end of rice harvest season with village ceremonies, communal meals, and thanksgiving rituals. Experience authentic rural Lombok life with gamelan performances and traditional food sharing in central Lombok villages.
Bau Nyale Festival Preparation Season
Villages along the south coast begin traditional preparations for the sea worm harvest festival. Witness community preparations, traditional craft making, and ceremonial planning in coastal Sasak communities. Cultural performances and storytelling sessions occur in village halls.