WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIETNAM?
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
There is no exact answer to the question for the best time to visit Vietnam, it depends on which regions you are visiting. However, if you are planning to visit through the whole country, the period from late December to April the following year can be considered as the most wonderful time in term of weather conditions.
Vietnam is a long country which expands over 15 degrees of latitude, which creates the variety of weather conditions along the county entirely. Vietnam has both a tropical climate zone and a temperate climate zone, with all of the country experiencing the effects of the annual monsoon. Rainy seasons correspond to monsoon circulations, which brings heavy rainfall in the north and south from May to October, and in the central regions from September to January.
Vietnam by months
January
Overview
Vietnam starts the year with its best dry conditions expected nationwide. Both the north and south are gifted with sunshine whilst the central region gradually steps out of its rainy season, which means the coastal cities like Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang are back to life (joining the in season Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne). There is an opposite temperature between the two ends of the country with the south being in the proximity of its hottest and the north undergoing the cooler weather.
January’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
January is regarded as one of the driest months of the year in the north. Though plenty of sunshine and clear blue skiescan be expected in this month, the temperature in the north stays quite cool with the average temperature is at 18°C (or even lower at the higher elevations like SaPa, Ha Giang or Mu Cang Chai). Precipitation is at its lowest in the north yetmisty haze is quite common, especially in coastal areas and around Halong Bay (Cat Ba island, for instance).
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
In January, the weather in the central Vietnam is getting better as the wet season comes to an end while the downpour is not on the cards. The average temperature during this month is 23°C. It’s the time for the beaches at Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang to take off their winter coats and come back to their glory days; meanwhile, Dalat and the Central Highlands are dry but chilly, especially at night so suitable clothing is recommended.
The Central Vietnam witnesses the obvious split of the weather condition between Hue and Danang due to the Hai Van Pass. With the height at 496m above the sea level, Hai Van Pass works as the wall to block all the rainfall in Hue and open up the sunshine on the other side of the range which is in Da Nang.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
January is absolutely the right month for the ones in need of sea-time. The south Vietnam is in the middle of the dry season in January with some of the best conditions of the year; blue skies and little, if any, rain anticipated in the region. The beaches within easy reach from Ho Chi Minh City like Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Phu Quoc and Con Dao Islands are basking in sunshine. Bikinis and swimwear can’t be missed in your suitcase.
Festivals to consider:
The Tet holiday, also known as Lunar New Year which falls in late January or early February (depending on the lunar calendar), is a significant cultural event in Vietnam that can greatly impact your trip to this beautiful country.
Please be well-prepared for the quietness of cities and towns or the limited operating hours of many businesses, shops, and restaurants. It is important to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements for accommodations, transportation, and meals during this time.
February
Overview
February remarks the best months to travel in Vietnam: February, March and April; Weather patterns are generally at their best, which means mostly dry and sunny with temperatures at an average of 23°C the entire country. The north (especially the farther north) remains cold weather and high humidity but the center and the south are warmer. All activities from trekking in the north, caving in Phong Nha or swimming in the southern beaches are perfect in February.
Lunar New year holiday is the great opportunity for you to learn about Vietnamese culture.
February’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
While plenty of sunshine and clear blue skies are available in February, temperatures in the north stay be quite cool (avg temp: 17 °C). In the north, cold weather happens same time as dry season. Rainfall comes at its lowest level even though a misty haze is quite common, especially in coastal areas and around Halong Bay and Cat Ba. The weather offers the wonderful conditions for mountain hiking with the tribes in Sa Pa, Mu Cang Chai, Ha Giang; especially enjoy the various customs of Lunar New Year celebrations.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
Perfect month to get sunbeam in Hang En cave in Phong Nha.
Hue is still quite wet with drizzle which causes high humidity for this former capital. Meanwhile, on the other side of Hai Van Pass, summer has returned to beaches of Hoi An and Danang bringing a lot of sunshine and just a little amount of shower. In Dalat and the Central Highlands, the climate is cool but dry due to the high altitude. The conditions are amazing for trekking and adventure activities with the indigenous tribes in the highland area. The trip to beaches is Nha Trang are filled with blue skies and higher temperatures.
Sunbeam in Hang En in February. Photo Credit: Oxalis
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
Like other regions in the country, good weather can be expected in the south in February. If you are a fan of beaches, this is the perfect time. The beaches of Phan Thiet & Mui Ne are experiencing clear blue skies, plenty of sunshine and almost no rain (avg temp: 27 °C). So are the archipelagoes of Phu Quoc and Con Dao. MeKong Delta is at the middle of dry season so you will absolutely enjoy the time here comfortably.
Festival to consider:
Same as in January, the Tet holiday, also known as Lunar New Year which may fall in February (depending on the lunar calendar, can greatly impact your trip to this beautiful country.
Please be well-prepared for the quieting of cities and towns or the limited operating hours of many businesses, shops, and restaurants. It is important to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements for accommodations, transportation, and meals during this time.
March
Overview
I would say March is the best time to visit Vietnam. The north and northern center are at their transition between spring and summer, offering the most fabulous conditions with dry, bright weather and the moderate temperature. Meanwhile, the beaches of the south and central regions are covered by hot weather with blue skies and sunshine. If you are looking for an adventure in the caves in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, March is the right time for lush green jungle, crystal clear water and butterflies along the trekking paths.
March’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
March brings the north region mild and comfortable temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 19 to 27°C (66 to 80°F). It is not hot, but the temperatures are on the rise. Why not take advantage of this favorable weather to do someamazing jungle trekking in the far north, or, who knows, Ha Giang loop.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
The weather in March is pleasant and warm in central region with the daytime temperatures usually range from 24 to 30°C (75 to 86°F). You can expect the sun-drenched beaches in Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang with the average temperature at 28°C. Hue is warm and dry whereas the conditions in Dalat and the Central Highlands are superb. Phong Nha is at its best condition, don’t miss it out.
March provides the wonderful conditions for caving in Phong Nha
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
Temperatures start to increase though the peak hasn’t reached yet. March is one of the best months for star fruit and rambutan, so make sure you don’t miss these sweet fruits during your trip in the south. Diving and snorkeling conditions continue to be considered excellent around the island of Con Dao in this month.
Festival to consider:
Don’t be surprised by the flowers and gifts sold along the streets in the cities and towns on March 8th. Vietnamese celebrate the day because it’s the International Women’s day. You may get some discount but also prepare for the higher-priced services and long queue for this day.
April
Overview
Vietnam continues the pleasant weather condition of the transitional period in April. This time of the year brings the whole S-shaped country a delightful, bright climate with temperatures rising and rainfall decreasing. Another wonderful month for exploring Vietnam's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Absolutely, April is the right time to visit Vietnam.
April’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
It’s warm and comfortable in Hanoi and Halong Bay area, with daytime highs ranging from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). However, it can be cooler in the evenings, so a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt are recommended for chilly nights. The mountainous regions such as Sa Pa, Mu Cang Chai or Tam Dao can be even colder, with temperatures fluctuating from 12-22°C (53-71°F).
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
The Central Vietnam keeps stretching its best weather condition to April. Temperatures are 1-2°C higher than March and all other climate patterns stay as pleasant as the previous month. Not much to worry about the weather in April so utilize your time for your most favorite activities in this month.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
April in South Vietnam heralds the arrival of the wet season, but with clear skies still prevalent and warm temperatures ideal for beachgoers, remaining a fantastic time to visit this stunning region. The average temperature during this time hovers around 31°C (88°F), making it certainly hot in the region. Despite the increasing possibilities of rain, clear skies are still more common throughout April, making it an ideal time to visit the beach destinations such as Phu Quoc, Con Dao archipelagoes, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne.
Festivals to consider:
It is important to be mindful of the Hung King's Celebration, which falls on the 10th day of the third lunar month in the Vietnamese calendar. Another big holiday in April you have to consider is the Reunification day (Apr 30th) and May Day (May 1st). This annual events often bring big influx of domestic tourists to popular destinations, with an upsurge in hotel price.
May
Overview
You start to see the changes in weather patterns in May despite the fact that this month is amongst the good time to travel in Vietnam. The north and central region are getting closer to summer whilst the south gradually steps towards the wet season; especially the end of the month The north begins to observe a higher downpour while this regions is heading into its hot, sticky summer. With being said, beaches and jungles are still the right choices.
May’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
Temperatures are on the rise in the north along with the chance of rain while dry days are still there (avg temp: 29°C(84°F)). The mountains remain nice conditions for exploring Mu Cang Chai and the Sapa, though Ha Giang starts to see higher rainfall.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
Hue and Phong Nha are also enjoying beautiful weather. Sunshine and blue skies are spreading all the way for the beaches of Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang at their best (avg temp: 30°C(86°F)). In Central Highlands and Dalat, the rainfall is going up but its peak is still yet to come and you can still expect dry breaks.
However, Vietnam tourism still sees the low season in May and June. Take advantages of the off-season to have the best deals while avoid the jam-packed tourist attractions.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
During May, chance of getting wet will grow, which helps to cool down the atmosphere that has been so scorching in the previous months. However, there are still plenty of dry spells that you can still expect in this month. Rain is likely to fall in the afternoon, usually short and heavy showers. In spite of the rain, the weather still provides favorable diving conditions for the islands in the South.
Festivals to consider
There is no big holidays or noticeable festivals in Vietnam during May.
June
Overview
June marks the transition from dry to wet season for the north and the south in Vietnam. During this time, frequent rains are expected, accompanied by high humidity. Yet, the central regions experience the less intense rainfall, offering you with cool and nice holiday in this area. In June, the lush landscapes are revitalized after the rains and the season becomes the time for green and unique photo opportunities. However, bear in mind that occasionally heavy showers may occur or even adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Not a good time for: Trekking in the mountains in the north or diving in the southern beaches.
June’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
The north Vietnam is in the middle of the summer, which means you can expect the hot weather as well as thunderstorms (avg temp: 30°C (86°F)). It is unadvisable for extensive trekking in the Northern mountains throughout the month. However, this is the time for sparkling terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai and Hoang Su Phi. Come there to enjoy the surprisingly beautiful fields in the northern mountainous area in Vietnam.
Sparkling terraced rice fields in Mu Cang Chai in June.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
In contrast to the northern weather, dry, sunny days and blue skies keep going for central Vietnam in June. The coastal cities Dong Hoi, Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang are at their wonderful time (avg temp: 30°C (86°F)); while Phong Nha and Hue are still enjoying the nice weather. The rainfall in the Central Highlands and is still on the increase though you still can travel to this region.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
The nesting season of Green Turtle on the beaches of Con Dao archipelago starts in June, when you can join your hand to protect this endangered species.
The south now is surely in its wet season. It’s not so tough, though the showers this month are a bit heavier than in previous months and you can still expect dry and bright daylight hours (avg temp: 28°C (82°F)).
Baby Green Turtles are making their first steps to the sea in Con Dao
Festival to consider:
June and July are at the peak time for domestic travel season in Vietnam as students are off from schools for their summer holiday. If you travel at weekends, make sure that you book the rooms in advance; otherwise, nowhere-to-stay can happen to you.
July
Overview
July shares the similar weather features with June: a patchwork of weather conditions. While the central Vietnam remains the typical traits of summer: hot and predominantly dry, the north and the south are added with downpours. Though this month is great for visiting the center, the number of visitors remain lower than earlier in the year.
Not a good time for: Trekking in the mountains in the north or diving in the southern beaches.
July’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
The weather condition in June continues to July. In summer in the north, high temperature and occasional storms are expected (avg temp: 30°C (86°F)). July is one of the wettest months in Hanoi and heavy showers are likely to happen quite often in Halong. As cautioned, trekking in the northern mountains is unadvisable in July.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
The nice weather continues on the beaches of Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang with lots of sunshine and blue skies. Phong Nha and Hue are hot and dry as these areas are characterized by Foehn winds blowing from Laos (avg temp: 33°C (91°F)). Dalat and the Central Highlands remain the high rainfall which makes jungle trekking and adventure activities unadvisable.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
The south now is surely in its wet season. It’s not so tough, though the showers this month are a bit heavier than in previous months and you can still expect dry and bright daylight hours (avg temp: 29°C (84°F)). Meanwhile, July marks the end of the dive season in Con Dao Islands where water conditions are still favorable.
Something to consider
June and July are at the peak time for domestic travel season in Vietnam as students are off from schools for their summer holiday. If you travel at weekends, make sure that you book the rooms in advance; otherwise, nowhere-to-stay can happen to you.
August
Overview
“A mixed bag” in terms of weather keeps going to be used in this month. Phong Nha and Hue going to end of hot and dry season at the end of this month with increasing rainfall in the later half of the month. The north and the south remain the weather characters from June and July: daily downpours and high temperatures. Domestic visitor numbers start going down especially at the end of the month.
Not a good time for: Trekking in the mountains in the north or diving in the southern beaches.
August’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
The weather condition in August is quite the same with July’s. In summer in northern Vietnam, high temperature and occasional storms are expected (avg temp: 30°C (86°F)). Hanoi is quite wet in Hanoi and heavy showers are likely to happen quite often in Halong. As cautioned, trekking in the northern mountains is unadvisable in this month.
Hanoi cools down after showers in August, offering the moderate temperature and green scenery
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
The good weather conditions keep spreading over the beaches of Hoi An, Danang and Nha Trang with the temperatures remain high and predominantly dry (avg temp: 30°C (°F)). Phong Nha and Hue are enjoying the wonderful weather with the hot days are eased up and more rain can be predicted towards the end of the month. Son Doong Expedition tour by Oxalis will finish its season when August closes. Da Lat and Central highlands are wet and adventure activities are not advised.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
From mid-August, Green Turtle babies in Con Dao are hatched. You can join your hand to help release the new-hatched turtles for their first steps to the sea. At midst rainy season in the south, the heavy showers and lots of dry and bright daylight hours can still be expected (avg temp: 29°C (84°F)).
Something to consider:
The number of domestic visitors will decrease at the end of August since a big holiday is going to happen at the beginning of September (Independence Day on September 2nd). Therefore, take your time to enjoy the low time before the huge influx of visitors throughout the country.
September
Overview
September marks the rainy season in central Vietnam while the rest of the country is moving in the opposite direction. Things remain largely unchanged in the south although rainfall does start to decrease as we move towards October.
Not a good time for: Jungle trekking and adventurous activities in central Vietnam.
September’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
Weather conditions in September are getting better with less rainfall, especially as we head towards October. Things in Sapa and Mu Cang Chai are also improving, which provides these regions trekking as an option again. Late September is wonderful time to visit Mu Cang Chai where the endless rice fields turn a golden color, ready to harvest.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
In September, wet weather is on the rise and the rain can even be expected to become more frequent towards the end of the month. Temperatures drop a little and please be prepared for possible stormy weather in the later half (avg temp: 28°C (82°F)). The beaches in Nha Trang start to see an increase in the rainfall. Dalat and the Central Highlands are still very wet so trekking and adventure activities are not a wise choice. Some of the caves in Phong Nha can be closed due to flooding and no Hang En and Son Doong tours are available in September. Some adventure tours to Tu Lan areas are still feasible until the middle of the month.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
The south observes a decrease in rainfall in the south although it is still in the wet season. Temperatures stay quite high (avg temp: 28°C (82°F)) and frequent rain can be predicted and dry and bright daylight hours are available in the south.
The possible risks in rainy reason:
It’s highly important to check the weather forecast when you travel in rainy season. In the mountainous area, the rain can cause landslides, rock falls or even flash flood. Along the coastal cities, there is high chance for typhoons from the Pacific Ocean from September to November. Remember that the heavy rain can lead to the cancellation or postpone of several domestic flights during the rainy season.
October
Overview
The weather in different regions of the country is moving in opposite directions. Things in the north continues to improve with brighter skies, lower rainfall and the humidity eases up; meanwhile, the opposite story happens in the center with increasing rainfall and more regular stormy weather. The region is receiving the lion’s share of the rain with flooding a possibility at times. In contrast, the south starts to see an improvement with a promise of the returning dry weather. Wonderful conditions for trekking and other adventure activities in the north Central Highlands.
Not a good time for: Jungle trekking and adventurous activities in central Vietnam (Phong Nha, Hue)
October’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
In northern Vietnam, October marks the end of the wet season. The temperatures gradually drop, so does the rainfall as the month moves on. The second half of the month sees the drier and cooler temperature (avg temp: 26°C (78°F)). In mountainous regions like Sapa and Ha Giang, the weather is dry and clear, creating the best trekking conditions of the year. Early October is a wonderful time to visit Mu Cang Chai where the endless rice fields turn a golden color, ready to harvest.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
The rainy season in the center of the country is getting close to its peak; typhoons and flood can occur in this area. The temperature is moderate through the region (avg temp: 24- 27°C (75-80°F)). Long term of heavy rain could mean that some of caves in Phong Nha are inaccessible and impossible to visit. Experiencing the flood with local people to feel the compassion in Phong Nha is worth spending time here. The beaches in Nha Trang experience high rainfall with almost half the city's annual rainfall falling in October and November. However, Dalat and the Central Highlands start to stop raining, as the month moves on and the lovely conditions for outdoor activity are coming back.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
In October, Con Dao Island sees Green Turtle hatchlings and going up from their nests under the sand and start their first steps to the sea.
The rainfall through the whole region is on the decline especially the later end of the month; the region is moving towards its dry and hot weather (avg temp: 27°C (80°F)). The beaches in Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, and the islands Phu Quoc & Con Dao are starting to wake up after the wet season and the sun starts to shine once again, creating the wonderful conditions for sea lovers.
Diving in Con Dao in October is a great experience
The possible risks in rainy reason:
It’s highly important to check the weather forecast when you travel in rainy season. In the mountainous area, the rain can cause landslides, rock falls or even flash flood. Along the coastal cities, there is high chance for typhoons from the Pacific Ocean from September to November. Remember that the heavy rain can lead to the cancellation or postpone of several domestic flights during the rainy season.
November
Overview
November is one of the best months to visit northern Vietnam when the dry, cooler weather has come back. The rainfall in central regions is on a decrease especially towards the end of the month, offering the better conditions for adventure activities. A different story happens in the southern beaches with blue skies and sunshine making Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne beaches the best destinations for the month.
Not the best time for: Jungle trekking and adventurous activities in central Vietnam in early November (Phong Nha, Hue).
November’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
The north is now enjoying some of the best conditions of the year. Temperatures stay moderate and the little rain is becoming infrequent and light (avg temp: 24°C).
The weather in the mountainous regions like Mu Cang Chai, Sapa and Ha Giang is dry and clear offering the best conditions for trekking. November is also known as one of the best months to experience Cat Ba Islands.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
Good conditions for adventure activities continue in the mountains of the north and also return to the Central Highlands including Da Lat.
However, Phong Nha, Hue and Hoi An still observe their severe rainfall and possible flood. The second half of the month see an improvement in terms of weather condition with less rain and flood. Tu Lan trekking and caving tours by Oxalis start being operated though the Son Doong Expedition is not opened until later January the following year. Nha Trang is still sitting in its own micro-weather system and seeing plenty of rain.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
The south welcomes November with all its glory as the sky is clear and humidity is dropping (avg temp: 27°C (80°F)). The beaches Phan Thiet & Mui Ne are firmly in their best condition with blue skies and plenty of sunshine. Same story for the islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao.
The possible risks in rainy reason:
It’s highly important to check the weather forecast when you travel in rainy season. In the mountainous area, the rain can cause landslides, rock falls or even flash flood. Along the coastal cities, there is high chance for typhoons from the Pacific Ocean from September to early November. Remember that the heavy rain can lead to the cancellation or postpone of several domestic flights during the rainy season.
December
Overview
December continues to be one of the best months for much Vietnam with optimum conditions throughout the country. The central region is still in its wet months, but surely experiences less rain and more sunshine this month; Meanwhile, December in the south is characterized by lower humidity and plenty of sunshine.
December’s weather in detail
North Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Cat Ba Islands, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
December is one of the driest months of the year in the north. This month helps remain the excellent conditions for trekking in northern mountains like Mu Cang Chai, Sapa and Ha Giang. The temperatures can be quite chilly (from 15°C to 22°C) but it’s a wonderful time to explore the cultural and historical sites, trek in the mountains, and witness stunning landscapes. Suitable clothing is recommended.
Central Vietnam
Phong Nha, Hue, Hoi An, Danang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat & Central Highlands
The central region sees an improving situation as the rains start to significantly decline and the temperatures are still far from chilly (avg temp: 24°C). Further to the south, Nha Trang still sees a steady decline of rainfall towards the end of the month. Dry and clear days keep being the main feature in Dalat and Central Highlands despite the cold evenings.
South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
The best conditions for travelling to the South are in December. It’s the dry season characterized by lower humidity and plenty of sunshine. Skies are blue and little, if any, rain can be anticipated. The beaches Phan Thiet & Mui Ne are alive with sunshine. Sunny days and warm weather are spreading over the islands like Phu Quoc and Con Dao while Ho Chi Minh City turns cooler and low humidity (avg temp: 26°C), especially Christmas Holiday.
Festivals to consider:
Absolutely Christmas and New Year Eve. Christianity only takes up 8.5% of Vietnamese population but more and more young people take this chance to hang out. If you are planning to eat out in big cities in this occasion, make sure that you have the reservation in advance.
Bianual Dalat Flower Festival can make the bookings for accommodation more difficult and expensive from November to December.
In a nutshell
Above is the summary of Vietnam weather conditions throughout the year based on our own experience. Although the period between December and April is considered the best time to visit Vietnam, the other months have their own charms. However, things are getting harder and harder to forecast due to the climate changes. The hot weather is becoming more extreme (in some parts, the temperatures can rise to 43°C (109.5°F in the summer) and the stormy season can stay with us longer. Hence, stay tuned for any changes during your trip to make sure that you can adapt with whatever the weather brings to you.
