Overview of Vietnam and Cambodia Climate
Vietnam and Cambodia have similar climate patterns due to their geographical proximity in Southeast Asia. Both countries experience a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The two countries share many similarities in terms of their year-round high temperatures and a large amount of rainfall. Here is the climate overview and season of each country.
Overall
Vietnam weather overview: The climate in Vietnam varies according to seasons and geographical regions, resulting in climatic differences among the country's three regions: North, Central, and South.
Northern Vietnam has 4 seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter while Central and Southern have dry and rainy seasons. Central Vietnam from September to November may be influenced by typhoons.
Cambodia weather overview: The weather of the country can be categorized into two primary seasons. It includes the dry season, which spans from November to April, and the rainy season from May to October.
Best time of year to visit Vietnam and Cambodia
Weather by season in Vietnam and Cambodia
Seasons in Vietnam 3 regions:
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Northern Vietnam: Autumn and Spring have mild and comfortable weather. Summer from June - August is hot and humid with occasional rainfall. The Winter in the region is cold and sometimes foggy, especially in mountainous areas.
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Central Vietnam: The region experiences hot and arid summers from May to August, followed by substantial precipitation during the rainy season from September to December. In Central Vietnam, from February to May, the weather is characterized by gentle and dry conditions.
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Southern Vietnam: The southern part of Vietnam has tropical weather, with a dry period spanning from December to April, and a rainy period lasting from May to November.
Seasons in Cambodia:
- Dry Season (November to April): This season is characterized by hot and dry weather with plenty of sunshine. Temperatures can be quite high, especially in April, reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in some areas.
- Rainy Season (May to October): Cambodia receives most of its rainfall during this season. The rain showers are usually short and intense, though September and October can experience heavy continuous rainfall.
Best time to go to Vietnam and Cambodia
Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia
Based on the overviews of the weather and climate in Vietnam and Cambodia mentioned above, we can gather the best months to visit Vietnam and Cambodia during the following periods:
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The best time to visit Northern Vietnam is in autumn, from September to November, and spring, from February to May. During these months, the weather in Northern Vietnam is pleasant, balanced, and suitable for outdoor exploration and activities.
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The best time to visit Central Vietnam is from February to May. During these months, the weather in Central Vietnam is dry, with clear skies and fewer storms, making it ideal for exploring beautiful beaches and coastal cities in this region.
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The best time to visit Southern Vietnam is from December to April. While the Southern part of Vietnam experiences sunshine throughout the year, during these months, the weather is milder, and more comfortable to hang out.
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The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, which usually spans from November to April. This timeframe offers delightful sunny weather and minimal rainfall, creating the perfect conditions for exploring the renowned Angkor Wat temple complex and engaging in various outdoor activities.
Best season to visit Vietnam and Cambodia
These are the periods with mild climates that are the best time of year to go to Vietnam and Cambodia. Rainfall may affect some travel plans, nevertheless, the unique beauty of each season is worth experiencing, while ensuring your safety during your journey. By preparing yourself well and following destination guidelines, weather conditions should not pose a significant obstacle to any adventurer. In the next section, let’s discover the top destinations in Vietnam and Cambodia that you should visit, as well as the best time to explore these places.
For more on this topic, read our ultimate Vietnam travel guide.
Best time to visit Vietnam Cambodia by Region
Vietnam Northern Highland
The Northern Highland region of Vietnam is widely recognized for its pristine natural allure and captivating landscapes all year round. It boasts enchanting sights such as idyllic rice fields, vibrant floral displays, and majestic mountains and forests. One particularly renowned highlight is the harvest season on terraced fields, taking place from September to October, which bestows upon spectators awe-inspiring and tranquil scenery.
Hanoi (Vietnam)
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city renowned for its captivating blend of cultural treasures. During the fall season, which spans from September to November, this ancient city comes alive with a unique charm that complements its bustling urban atmosphere, resulting in a harmonious fusion of historical grandeur.
Furthermore, Hanoi serves as an ideal starting point for exploring other breathtaking destinations in Northern Vietnam, including the scenic highland regions to the North, the serene beauty of Ninh Binh, and the unforgettable experiences offered by Ha Long Bay.
Da Nang (Vietnam)
Visitors walk in the Golden Bridge of Da Nang in the Chua Mountain
Da Nang is situated along the stunning coast of Central Vietnam. With the exception of the stormy and rainy months from September to November, Da Nang can be enjoyed at any time. From April to August, the summer season brings sunny and dry weather, making it an ideal time to bask in the crystal-clear waters of Da Nang's beautiful beaches. Among them, My Khe Beach stands out and has earned recognition as one of the world's most breathtaking beaches by Forbes.
Da Nang is not just about its city and beach; it also serves as a gateway to other remarkable destinations like Hue and Hoi An.
Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
The ideal period to visit Ho Chi Minh City is from December to April, characterized by the dry and pleasant weather. The temperatures during this time are moderate, avoiding excessive heat, and the rainfall is minimal. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can further explore attractions such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and the remarkable Mekong Delta region. Additionally, you could consider extending your journey into the captivating country of Cambodia.
Siem Reap (Cambodia)
The unique architectural structure of Angkor Wat has persisted for centuries
The city is home to Angkor Wat, an architectural marvel, that is renowned worldwide as a remarkable cultural heritage site. Its construction dates back to the 12th century, yet it continues to captivate with its timeless beauty and grandeur. The optimal period to visit Angkor Wat is from November to February, during Cambodia's dry season. This time offers pleasant weather, devoid of excessive heat, allowing for an ideal exploration of the region's rich cultural treasures.
Phnom Penh (Cambodia)
The travel route between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is relatively short, allowing travelers to conveniently explore both cities. The ideal time to visit the capital and cultural-political center of Cambodia is also from November to February. Phnom Penh boasts significant historical landmarks of the country, such as the Choeung Ek Memorial, the National Museum of Cambodia, and the Royal Palace.
Sihanoukville (Cambodia)
Nestled along the southern coast of Cambodia, Sihanoukville offers stunning beaches and captivating neighboring islands. Tourists can partake in a plethora of activities including swimming, diving, sunbathing, and savoring delectable fresh seafood. In addition, the city boasts an array of upscale resorts, restaurants, bars, and casinos, ensuring an exciting nightlife experience in Cambodia.
The optimal period to explore Sihanoukville is from November until April, as this timeframe offers delightful and arid weather, inviting visitors to indulge in invigorating swimming and diving experiences. It is recommended to steer clear of the monsoon season between May and October, when heavy rainfall and turbulent waters may persist.
Vietnam and Cambodia best time to visit
Ultimately, the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Both countries are enchanting year-round, offering an array of delights for travelers. Whether it is exploring bustling cities, uncovering ancient ruins, or indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, Vietnam and Cambodia are waiting to leave you with lifelong memories. Remember when you require the companionship of a trustworthy ally on a remarkable Vietnam and Cambodia package tour, New Asia Tours remains ever-present, ready to assist!
