Weather in Sumbawa Besar

Planning your day or an entire journey? Check out the detailed forecast and current meteorological charts for Sumbawa Besar to be prepared for any conditions.

The climate of Sumbawa Besar can be characterized as hot and tropical, with high humidity and stable temperatures throughout the year. Located in Indonesia, this region experiences almost no seasonal fluctuations between cold and heat: the average daytime temperature here confidently stays in the range of +28°C to +31°C, while nights remain comfortably warm, rarely cooling below +22°C.

The weather here is clearly divided into two main periods: wet and dry. The rainy season usually lasts from November to March, peaking in January and February when the number of rainy days is at its maximum (up to 29 days per month). During this time, precipitation falls frequently, but it is usually followed by sunny intervals, allowing nature to remain lush and green.

The dry season, which sets in from May to September or October, is considered the most favourable time for beach holidays and excursions. During these months, rainfall is minimized (especially in July and August), the sky becomes clear, and the humidity is easier to tolerate. Thanks to this predictability, tourists can easily choose the perfect time for a trip depending on their preferences.

The temperature regime in Sumbawa Besar is distinguished by the stability characteristic of an equatorial climate, with minimal changes throughout the year. October is considered the hottest period here, when the average temperature reaches 27.3°C, and daytime highs regularly exceed the 31°C mark. At this time, preceding the rainy season, the air warms up the most, creating true tropical heat.

The period from June to August can be conditionally called the coolest season, although the concept of cold is quite relative here. In July, the average temperature drops to a comfortable 25.2°C. During the day in these months, the thermometer usually stays at the level of 28–29°C, which, combined with the lack of precipitation, makes this time ideal for travel. This "dry" summer is much easier to bear than the humid and hot months at the end of the year.

Daily temperature fluctuations also add variety to the climate picture. The difference between day and night readings is usually between 5 and 8 degrees. For example, in September, after a hot day with temperatures around 30°C, pleasant night freshness sets in when the air cools down to 22.6°C. Such drops allow for a comfortable rest at night without excessive stuffiness even in the warm seasons.

The nature of precipitation in Sumbawa Besar has its own unique features that distinguish it from many other tropical regions. Even during periods that climatologists classify as wet, prolonged or destructive downpours rarely occur here. Statistics indicate a high frequency of precipitation, but its intensity remains extremely low. This means that instead of a wall of rain, travellers are more likely to encounter light drizzle, brief sun showers, or simply high humidity under cloudy skies.

This weather pattern creates specific conditions: the air may seem thick and saturated with moisture, and the sky is often covered with haze, which protects against the scorching sun. Precipitation, as a rule, does not interfere with movement around the city and its surroundings, as water evaporates quickly due to the consistently high air temperature. Puddles on the roads hardly form, and the ground is only slightly dampened by moisture, which makes walks even more comfortable than on sweltering days.

When packing for a trip, focus on "breathable" clothing made of quick-drying fabrics. Heavy raincoats or thick jackets will be redundant here — it can be too hot in them due to the humidity trapping heat. The ideal choice would be a light windbreaker, a compact umbrella, or a weightless poncho that can be quickly thrown on during short-term precipitation. In the driest months of the year, the probability of even light rain is reduced to zero, and the sky delights with constant clarity.

When planning a journey to Sumbawa Besar, keep in mind the warm tropical climate characteristic of this region. Since the average air temperature throughout the year stays at +25–27°C, the basis of your luggage should be light items made of natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen. T-shirts, shorts, loose trousers, and summer dresses will ensure comfort in hot weather, while modest swimwear will be useful for beach holidays.

It is important to consider the seasonality of precipitation when planning your wardrobe. If the trip is planned for the period from November to April, when the number of rainy days is at its maximum (up to 29 days per month), be sure to take a light raincoat, a waterproof cover for your backpack, and quick-drying shoes. In the dry season, lasting from May to October, rains are extremely rare, so the emphasis should be on sun protection: do not forget a panama or hat, high-quality sunglasses, and cream with a high SPF factor.

For long walks and sightseeing, comfortable sandals with foot support or light sneakers are best suited. Despite the stable heat, bring one light long-sleeved shirt or a windbreaker: it will come in handy on cool evenings when the temperature drops to +22°C, and will also protect against strong air conditioning in transport or hotels.