Vietnam and Cambodia are two incredible destinations in Southeast Asia that offer a wide range of attractions and experiences. From the stunning Ha Long Bay and Hoi An to the magnificent Angkor Wat, these countries have something for every traveler. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, it’s important to consider the best time to visit to make the most of your experience.
Best Weather Times for Vietnam and Cambodia
The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is during the dry season, which lasts from November to April. This period offers mostly dry and clear days, making it ideal for exploring the beautiful landscapes and historical sites. The dry season can be further divided into the cool season (November to February) and the hot season (March to April).
If you’re sensitive to heat, it’s recommended to plan your trip between November and February when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. However, if you don’t mind the heat, the hot season is a great time for beach vacations and cruises in places like the Mekong River and Ha Long Bay.
Best Times Outside the Dry Season
If your schedule doesn’t allow for a trip during the dry season, there are still opportunities to visit Vietnam and Cambodia and enjoy comfortable weather. In Cambodia, the charm of Angkor Wat is ever-present, even during the rainy season from June to October. For fewer rainy days, it’s best to visit in May or late October.
In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc Island, and the Mekong Delta, November to April is the best time to visit. Even during the rainy season, Mekong River cruises are still a good option.
Central Vietnam, including popular destinations like Hoi An, Hue, and Danang, experiences a short wet season from September to December. From January to August, the weather is mostly dry, making it ideal for summer-holiday family trips.
In Northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay and Hanoi enjoy warm and mild weather from October to April. October, in particular, is a good month to visit Hanoi and Sapa, with moderate rainfall and warm temperatures.
Best Times for a Family Trip to Vietnam and Cambodia
If you’re planning a family trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, December and January are the best months to visit. These months offer mild and dry weather, as well as festive Christmas and New Year celebrations. However, it’s important to note that these months are also the busiest and most expensive. To secure the best deals, it’s recommended to book your trip well in advance.
For a summer getaway, June is a better time to visit. With lower rainfall and smaller crowds compared to July and August, you can enjoy a more peaceful and affordable trip.
The Worst and Cheapest Times to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia
The rainy season, which lasts from May to October, is generally considered the worst time to travel to Vietnam and Cambodia. However, this period also offers the opportunity to enjoy significant savings, with discounts ranging from 30% to 50%.
If you prefer to avoid crowds, the peak season from November to April may not be the best time for you, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays. However, with a well-organized private tour, you can still have a comfortable and enjoyable trip, avoiding crowded situations.
For a compromise between lower costs, smaller crowds, and lighter rainfall, it’s advisable to travel just before or after the high season, in May or late October.
The Rainy Season in Vietnam and Cambodia
The rainy season in Vietnam and Cambodia occurs between May and October, with the heaviest rainfall usually in July and August. Central Vietnam experiences its peak rainfall from September to November. However, it’s important to note that the rainy season doesn’t mean constant storms and floods. Most of the rainfall comes in the form of short afternoon downpours, allowing for dry day trips if you’re flexible and well-prepared.
It’s worth mentioning that Ekilove is here to help you plan your trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. With our personalized and stress-free experiences, we ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable journey. For more information, visit Ekilove.
Find Your Best Month to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia…
If you’re wondering about the weather in specific months, here’s a quick overview:
- January: One of the best months to visit with low rainfall and warm/cool temperatures.
- February: Drier and warmer weather than January, perfect for exploring the iconic attractions.
- March: Dry weather with increasing temperatures. Ideal for cooler weather in northern and central Vietnam.
- April: Moderate rainfall with smaller crowds. Northern Vietnam offers outdoor adventures.
- May: Transitional month with high temperatures. Early May has less rainfall and is a good time to visit central Vietnam.
- June: Beginning of the rainy season in most areas. Central Vietnam is in the “rain shadow” and still a good option.
- July: Frequent and heavy rainfall. Flexibility in itinerary planning is crucial to make the best of the weather.
- August: Heaviest rain in most areas, except for central Vietnam. Central Vietnam offers cultural experiences and beach activities.
- September: High rainfall throughout. Typhoons and heavy rains are likely to affect coastal areas.
- October: Tail end of the rainy season with cooler temperatures. Central Vietnam experiences persistent storms.
- November: More sunny days and cooler weather. Quieter time in early November to avoid crowds.
- December: Warm/mild weather in most areas. Central Vietnam enters the dry season in late December.
Visit Vietnam and Cambodia with Us
At Ekilove, we specialize in creating personalized milestone trips for families and couples. Whether it’s a special anniversary or a retirement celebration, we can tailor-make a trip that suits your preferences and needs. With our Create My Trip service, you can sit back and relax while our experts design your perfect itinerary.
To get started, simply contact us and our expert consultant will reach out to you within 24 hours. Take inspiration from our hand-picked private tours, such as the 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights, the 12-Day Essential Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour, the 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour, or the 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
