Surabaya in October

October weather, activities, events & insider tips

October Weather in Surabaya

33°C (92°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

53 mm (2.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season arrival means 70% humidity instead of rainy season's 85% - outdoor activities become comfortable again after September's peak rains
Post-Ramadan celebration period brings busy local festivals and extended market hours - streets come alive with food vendors until 2am
Shoulder season pricing kicks in - hotel rates drop 20-30% from peak July-August levels while weather remains excellent
Perfect temperature window for exploring Surabaya's industrial heritage sites - factories and refineries offer tours when heat isn't overwhelming

Considerations

Occasional afternoon thunderstorms lasting 45-60 minutes can disrupt outdoor plans - happens roughly every third day
University semester restart means increased local traffic and crowded public transport during weekday rush hours (7-9am, 5-7pm)
Some traditional markets reduce weekend hours during Islamic holiday recovery period - Saturday morning visits work better than Sunday afternoons

Best Activities in October

Surabaya Heritage District Walking Tours

October's moderate humidity makes exploring the Arab Quarter and Southeastasia comfortable for 3-4 hour walks. Early morning temperatures of 24°C (76°F) are perfect for photographing colonial architecture before afternoon heat builds. Local guides share stories about the city's role in Indonesia's independence - particularly relevant as October marks Heroes' Day preparations.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through hotel concierge or tourism office. Tours typically cost 150,000-250,000 IDR ($10-17) and include traditional snack stops. Look for certified local guides who speak your language. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Tanjung Perak Port Industrial Tours

Indonesia's second-largest port offers fascinating behind-scenes access during October's clear weather. Visibility reaches 15 km (9.3 miles) on dry days, perfect for container yard observations and ship watching. Morning tours avoid afternoon heat while showcasing Surabaya's economic powerhouse role in Southeast Asian shipping.

Booking Tip: Advance booking required 2-3 weeks ahead due to security clearance. Tours cost 200,000-350,000 IDR ($13-23) including transportation. Must book through authorized operators with port access permits. Check booking widget below for verified operators.

Madura Island Day Trips

October's calmer Java Sea conditions make the 30-minute ferry crossing to Madura comfortable for day trips. Visit traditional bull racing training grounds and salt farming villages. Dry weather means salt harvest season is active - witness traditional farming methods that haven't changed in centuries.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets cost 15,000-25,000 IDR ($1-2) each way. Full day tours including transport and guide range 400,000-600,000 IDR ($27-40). Book morning departures to maximize island time. Current ferry schedules and tour combinations available in booking section.

Surabaya Food Market Night Tours

Post-fasting month celebrations mean food markets explode with energy during October evenings. Comfortable 26°C (79°F) night temperatures make 3-hour walking food tours enjoyable. Sample traditional Javanese dishes and regional specialties while learning about spice trade history that built Surabaya's wealth.

Booking Tip: Evening tours start 6pm-7pm and cost 180,000-280,000 IDR ($12-19) including food samples. Book Easttimor-day through local operators or 2-3 days ahead during weekend periods. Look for tours covering multiple market areas. See current food tour options below.

House of Sampoerna Museum and Cigarette Factory Visits

October's lower humidity reduces tobacco processing odors, making factory floor visits more comfortable. Learn about Indonesia's kretek cigarette culture and colonial-era tobacco trade. Interactive exhibits work better in dry conditions, and outdoor courtyard areas become pleasant spaces for breaks.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits cost 25,000 IDR ($1.70) or guided tours 75,000-125,000 IDR ($5-8). Factory operates Monday-Friday, best visited 9am-11am before heat builds. No advance booking needed for individual visits. Group tours available through booking platforms below.

Mangrove Forest Eco-Tours in Wonorejo

October's reduced rainfall means mangrove waterways become clearer and wildlife more active. Boat tours through protective forests showcase Surabaya's environmental conservation efforts. Bird watching peaks during migration season - over 50 species documented in October surveys.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost 150,000-250,000 IDR ($10-17) including boat and guide. Morning departures 7am-8am offer best wildlife viewing. Book 3-5 days ahead during weekends. Operators provide life jackets and basic refreshments. Current eco-tour options in booking section below.

October Events & Festivals

Throughout October

Heroes' Day Preparations and Commemorations

October builds toward November 10th Heroes' Day with street decorations, military parade rehearsals, and historical exhibitions. Surabaya's role as the 'City of Heroes' comes alive with museum special exhibits and veteran storytelling sessions in public parks.

Mid October

Surabaya Fashion Week

Annual fashion event showcasing Indonesian designers typically runs mid-October at Grand City Mall and nearby venues. Features traditional batik innovations and modern Indonesian fashion trends. Public shows often free, designer exhibitions require tickets.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain poncho or compact umbrella - afternoon showers in October last 45-60 minutes and come with little warning

Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid polyester which traps heat in 70% humidity conditions

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 during midday hours with minimal cloud cover

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - wet sidewalks become slippery after brief rain showers

Light cardigan or long-sleeve shirt - air-conditioned malls and restaurants keep temperatures around 18°C (64°F)

Insect repellent containing DEET - mosquitoes become more active as dry season begins but standing water remains

Power bank and waterproof phone case - humidity can affect electronics and outlets aren't always available during long walking tours

Cash in small denominations - many local vendors and transport options don't accept cards, ATMs dispense large notes

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in warm weather, and filtered water refill stations are common

Basic first aid items including anti-diarrheal medication - trying new street foods can sometimes cause stomach adjustments

Insider Knowledge

October mornings before 9am offer the best photography light and coolest temperatures - locals exercise and shop early to avoid afternoon heat buildup

University students return in October creating traffic congestion - use ride-sharing apps like Gojek during off-peak hours (10am-4pm) for better rates and faster service

Traditional markets like Pasar Genteng close early on Fridays for prayer time - plan morning visits and avoid Friday afternoon shopping

The new Trans Surabaya Bus Rapid Transit system expanded in 2025 with air-conditioned buses connecting major tourist areas - costs 3,500 IDR (24 cents) versus 15,000-25,000 IDR for taxi rides

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming all outdoor attractions stay open during afternoon rain - many heritage sites close courtyards and outdoor exhibits during storms, plan indoor backup activities

Overdressing for air-conditioned spaces then suffering in outdoor humidity - layer clothing you can easily add or remove as you move between environments

Scheduling multiple outdoor activities back-to-back without rain contingencies - October weather changes quickly, build flexibility into daily itineraries