How is the weather like

December is the most splendid month for a vacation in Vietnam and Cambodia because it's cooler and drier than other months, so you can go outside to visit the sights better. Besides, it doesn't rain too much here, so outdoor activities and sightseeing are quite possible. 

Vietnam's Weather in December

December in Vietnam brings a welcome break from the usual heat and humidity. It's the peak of the dry season, with little rain and pleasant temperatures. This makes it a great time to see the country's cities and beaches.

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December

Visiting the northern winter in Ninh Binh during the middle of December

Rainfall is low, with most places getting less than 2 inches of rain. This dry weather makes exploring Vietnam's landscapes and culture more enjoyable.

City

Average High (°F/°C)

Average Low (°F/°C)

Average Rainfall (inches/mm)

Hanoi

72°F (22°C)

59°F (15°C)

1.2 inches (30 mm)

Ho Chi Minh City

88°F (31°C)

75°F (24°C)

1.6 inches (40 mm)

Nha Trang

82°F (28°C)

75°F (24°C)

1.4 inches (35 mm)

Da Nang

82°F (28°C)

72°F (22°C)

1.6 inches (40 mm)

Northern Vietnam in December

If you travel to the North of Vietnam in December, you can enjoy the winter which you would never feel in the Central and South. The average temperature is about 18°C  and decreases to 12°C.

December in north Vietnam is the driest month of the year, however, it might be foggy during a particular day. You may even find snow falling on the mountainous areas like Sapa or Ha Giang, although snowy weather is not frequent in this tropical country. 

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December

Enjoying snowy weather in Vietnam is a rare experience (Sapa)

As the rainfall of the Northern regions is low, you can catch up on sight seeing in many tourist attractions including Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Hai Phong. Or if you prefer cooler weather, Sapa is your better choice. 

Central Vietnam in December

The first week of December in Central Vietnam might feature some showers. Nevertheless, the skies are more bright in the following week and temperature is approximately 22°C - 24°C. 

If the cold weather makes you hesitant about going to the beach, there are many other places in central Vietnam that you can experience, such as Hoi An Ancient Town, Ba Na Hill, and Hue. Although these places are not as cold as the northern region, they are still a must-try because the number of tourists is lower than other months of the year, and there are many interesting activities such as handicraft making, cooking classes, or lantern releasing. 

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December

Visiting Hoi An ancient town in December

Southern Vietnam in December

The temperature of South Vietnam in December changes a lot during the day and night. During the day, it is between 30°C to 32°C but during night it is 22°C.

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December

Foreign tourists in Ho Chi Minh City tours

December in Southern Vietnam is a good time to enjoy beaches, for instance Phu Quoc. This destination will afford you an optimum opportunity to engage with its majestic attributes, interesting and spicy cuisines and excellent services in grand hotels and resorts.

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December

Enjoying Phu Quoc beaches during December

Vietnam in December is a tropical paradise ready to be discovered. It's the perfect time for cultural adventures, outdoor fun, or a relaxing getaway.

Cambodia’s Weather in December

The Cambodia weather in December is cooler than other months. The average temperature typically ranges from around 21°C to 30°C (70°F to 86°F). 

Destination

Average Temperature

Rainfall

Phnom Penh

31°C (88°F)

15mm

Siem Reap

29°C (84°F)

10mm

Sihanoukville

30°C (86°F)

20mm

 

In Cambodia, December is often dry, mild and pleasant, which is ideal for outdoor fun. For example, you can visit Angkor Wat, go to local markets to try Khmer foods, or go on nature trips. 

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December

The beauty of Angkor Wat in December 

The weather in December is the greatest time for you to travel to Cambodia because you do not have to worry about flooding or strong storms.

Is December a good time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia

Definitely, December is a great time to visit. The weather is mild, and there's plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for seeing the culture, nature, and outdoor activities these places offer. And here are some reasons:

  • Pleasant Weather: December is a dry season in both countries which is a great time for outdoor activities and visits. 

  • Scenic Beauty: The cloudless sky and moderate air temperature in December make it a perfect time to visit natural places such as Halong Bay in Vietnam and the Angkor Wat Temples in Cambodia.

  • Festivals and Events: Christmas and New Year's Eve are the joyful times when the people of major cities celebrate in ways they never did before such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap thus creating a bountiful scene.

  • Fewer Rains: You would comfortably go sightseeing as well as visit many attractive destinations without the worries of upcoming sudden rains.

Travel Tips

When planning your trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in December, it is essential to think ahead. The weather during this time is cool and dry, making it perfect for exploring. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind for the best possible experience:

  • Be prepared for a mix of climates in both countries, ranging from cool temperatures in the north to warm and humid conditions in the south.

  • In Vietnam, pack layers to accommodate any sudden changes in weather, especially when visiting Hanoi or Halong Bay. 

  • And don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and some first aid supplies for your best and safest experience 

To gain more insights, navigate to our post about best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia!

Vietnam and Cambodia weather in December is pretty good for traveling from the lively energy of bustling cities to the tranquil beauty of stunning natural landscapes. If you’re planning a combined trip to these captivating destinations, you can visit the website of New Asia Tours to get more information about Vietnam tours and the similarities with reasonable prices.