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Bali to Sumba Travel Guide
Walakiri Beach, East Sumba

Travel Guide

Best Time for Bali to Sumba

May to October brings sunshine and calm seas, but every season has its own reward.

Climate: Dry vs Wet Season

Two seasons shape every Bali to Sumba trip.

The dry season runs from May to October, with steady sunshine, low humidity and little rain.

The wet season brings short afternoon downpours and lush landscapes. Sumba’s dry season is often more pronounced than Bali’s.

Dry season
May–Oct
Dry season days
28–32°C
Wet season
Nov–Apr
Wet season days
26–30°C

Season by Season: Choose Your Season

Weather, crowds and conditions through the year.

Flights Bali to Sumba

May–Aug

Peak Dry Season

Clear skies, low humidity and the calmest seas of the year.

  • Days around 29°C, evenings 24°C
  • Diving visibility often over 30 m
  • Consistent west coast surf

Jul–Aug

High Season

Perfect weather and the busiest resorts.

  • Top resorts book out early
  • Reserve 6–9 months ahead
  • Sumba stays quieter than Bali

Apr, Sep–Oct

Shoulder Months

Great weather with fewer visitors.

  • April is still green after the rains
  • September and October stay dry and calm
  • A slower pace in the villages

Nov–Mar

Wet Season

Green landscapes, dramatic skies and real solitude.

  • Short, heavy showers, often late in the day
  • Wettest in January and February
  • Pasola season in February or March

At Sea: Marine Conditions

Diving, surfing and sailing change with the season.

Weekuri Lagoon, Southwest Sumba

May – October

Dry Season Seas

Calm water, mild currents and peak visibility.

  • Visibility often exceeds 30 m
  • Water around 27–29°C
  • Powerful, consistent west coast swells
Waimarang Waterfall, East Sumba

November – April

Wet Season Seas

Choppier water, still rewarding with the right plan.

  • Visibility drops to around 10–20 m
  • Sheltered breaks offer uncrowded waves
  • Boat trips need flexible planning

Always check real-time marine forecasts with local experts before diving or sailing.

Culture Calendar: Time Your Trip for Pasola

Sumba’s most famous ritual falls in the wet season.

Mounted warriors meet in a ritual battle tied to the lunar calendar and the harvest.

When
February or March, set by the lunar calendar
Dates
Shift every year, so always verify first
Villages
Praijing and Ratenggaro are worth visiting in any season

Best Time FAQ

Quick answers on timing your trip.

Plan Around the Right Season

Share your dates and we will match them to the best weather and events.