When Is the Best Time to Visit Indochina?

Most people would say that best time of year to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is in November. But if everyone comes at that time then is there any other ideal time of year to visit? Choosing the best time to visit is one of the most important considerations in a multi countries exploration for many factors affecting when planning your trip.

Weather Overview of Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia have diverse climates, with Vietnam experiencing distinct weather patterns in the north, central, and south regions, while Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate characterized by dry and wet seasons.

Vietnam

Vietnam boasts a diverse climate due to its elongated shape and varying topography. It can be broadly divided into three distinct regions: the north, central, and south.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

The northern region experiences four distinct seasons:

• Winters (December to February) are relatively cold, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F) and occasional drizzles.
• Spring (March to April) brings milder temperatures and occasional showers.
• Summers (May to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) and frequent rain showers.
• Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and clear skies, making it an ideal time to visit.

Recap: November to April is great to visit North Vietnam. It’s dry and there are no storms. But in mountainous areas, January and February are foggy.

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang)

Central Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons:

• The wet season typically lasts from September to January, with heavy rainfall, occasional typhoons and may have flooding.
• The dry season, from February to August, is characterized by hot temperatures and low chances of rain.

The best time to visit central Vietnam is from February to May when the weather is generally dry and temperatures are more moderate.

Recap: October, November, December rains a lot. January is still a bit wet. However, February to April is great to visit.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

The southern region of Vietnam experiences a tropical climate with high humidity throughout the year.

• The dry season, from December to April, with the temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) offers plenty of sunshine and lower chances of rainfall.
• The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms with the temperatures remain relatively high, but the humidity can be intense.

Recap: November – April is beautiful because there is no rain, but it is still hot. May – October is the rainy season and it rains almost daily, mainly showers in the evening.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that weather patterns can vary slightly from year to year. So it’s always a good idea to check the forecast closer to your travel dates.

Cambodia

Cambodia experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

Dry Season (October – April/Early May)

This period is the best time to visit Cambodia. The weather is relatively cooler, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). You can expect clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable conditions for exploring popular attractions like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh.

Wet Season (May to early October)

While the wet season brings frequent rain showers, it also has its advantages. The landscapes turn lush and vibrant, and you’ll encounter fewer tourists. However, be prepared for high humidity, occasional heavy rainfall, and potential transportation disruptions.

This time could be a great ideal to visit Cambodia, especially Siem Reap (less touristy). The greener terraces and the cheaper in hotels price. It will satisfy who want to relax and travel not too crowded.