Best Time to Visit Cambodia and Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide

Dreaming of a Southeast Asian adventure? Vietnam and Cambodia beckon with captivating landscapes, vibrant cultures, and ancient wonders. But when is the ideal time to visit? This guide unveils the secrets to crafting your perfect Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary based on your travel preferences. Whether you crave sunshine and turquoise waters or lush landscapes and cultural immersion, we'll unveil the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia for YOU.

Vietnam's Diverse Climate from North to South

Vietnam's climate is as varied as its landscapes, offering travelers a mosaic of weather experiences as they journey from north to south. In the north, cities like Hanoi and Halong Bay greet visitors with cooler temperatures ranging from 14°C to 20°C in January, gradually warming up to a pleasant 25°C to 31°C by September. The region's rainfall is modest in the early months, with January showers averaging around 13.0mm in Hanoi, making it an ideal time for those seeking a milder climate to explore the vibrant streets and tranquil bays.

Heading into the mountainous terrains of Sapa, adventurers will find a cooler climate, perfect for trekking through the lush greenery and terraced rice fields. The temperatures here can be a refreshing 12°C to 23°C in January, rising to a warmer 24°C to 32°C come September, with rainfall peaking in the summer months, reaching up to 219.8mm in July.

As you travel down to the central coast, Hoi An and Da Nang offer a tropical climate with warmer temperatures year-round. January sees a comfortable range of 20°C to 25°C, ideal for exploring the ancient town of Hoi An or lounging on the beaches of Da Nang. The rainfall in these regions is more pronounced towards the end of the year, with Hoi An experiencing its heaviest downpour in October, averaging 445.0mm.

Finally, in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the climate remains consistently warm, with temperatures rarely dipping below 22°C even in January, and climbing to a balmy 26°C to 34°C throughout the year. The city sees a gradual increase in rainfall from January's light 5.3mm to a heavier 159.6mm in June, perfect for those who enjoy the energy of a tropical city.

Whether you're seeking the cool, misty mornings of the north or the sun-soaked days of the south, Vietnam's diverse climate ensures a rich and varied travel experience for every visitor.

Average Monthly Temperatures for top tourist destinations in Vietnam

Rainfall Trends in top tourist places across Vietnam

Cambodia's Weather: Dry Season vs. Green Season

When planning a trip to Cambodia, understanding the nuances of the dry and green seasons can greatly enhance your travel experience. The dry season, spanning from November to April, offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring the ancient temples of Siem Reap or the bustling streets of Phnom Penh. With highs ranging from 30°C to 35°C and lows comfortably sitting at 22°C to 27°C, you can enjoy the warmth without the intense heat of the later months.

Conversely, the green season, from May to October, brings a different kind of beauty to Cambodia. The landscape transforms with lush vegetation and the countryside is at its most vibrant. While the rainfall peaks, with cities like Sihanoukville receiving up to 419.2mm in August, the showers are often short and can provide a refreshing break from the heat. This season also sees fewer tourists, which means more opportunities to experience the local culture and attractions without the crowds.

Whether you choose the dry season for its convenience and comfort or the green season for its scenic beauty and tranquility, Cambodia's climate is sure to offer a memorable backdrop to your adventure.

Monthly Temperature Averages for Cambodia's Top Travel Spots

Average Monthly Rainfall in Major Cambodia's tourist destinations

When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia?

The best time to travel to Vietnam is from mid-November to the end of April, with February and March being particularly favorable. During these months, the weather is generally dry and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. (best time to visit Vietnam)

For Cambodia, the prime travel period is from December to May, with January, February, and March offering the most favorable weather conditions. These months provide dry, warm weather perfect for visiting the iconic Angkor Wat and enjoying the coastal regions. (best time to visit Cambodia)

If you're planning to visit both Vietnam and Cambodia in one trip, consider traveling in February, March, or April. These months typically offer the best weather in both countries, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience with minimal weather-related disruptions.

Festivals and Cultural Events in Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia are countries rich in cultural traditions, and their calendars are filled with vibrant festivals and events that reflect their deep-rooted heritage. Here's a glimpse into some of the most significant celebrations you can experience:

Top cultural festivals in Vietnam:

• Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): Celebrated at the beginning of the lunar calendar, it's the most important festival in Vietnam, marked by family reunions, traditional foods, and ancestral worship.
• Perfume Pagoda Festival:This religious festival takes place in February or March at the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples located outside Hanoi. Pilgrims travel from all over Vietnam to attend the festival, which includes boat processions, pagoda visits, and offerings to the Buddha.
• Hung King Temple Festival: Held in Phu Tho province, this festival honors the Hung Kings, founders of the nation, with various folk games and processions.
• Giong Festival: Recognized by UNESCO, this festival celebrates Saint Giong, one of the four Vietnamese immortals, with cultural performances.
• Hue Festival:Held every two years in April or May, this festival is a celebration of Vietnamese culture and heritage. It features traditional music, dance performances, and elaborate parades.
• Mid-Autumn Festival:This festival, also known as the Children's Festival, is celebrated in mid-September. It's a time for families to enjoy mooncakes, lanterns, and lion dances. Children carry colorful lanterns in the shapes of animals and mythical creatures.

Top festivals and events in Cambodia:

• Choul Chhnam Thmey (Khmer New Year): A three-day festival marking the end of the harvest season, filled with purification ceremonies, temple visits, and traditional games.
• Royal Ploughing Ceremony:This ceremony takes place in May and is a symbolic event that marks the beginning of the rice-planting season. The king performs a ritual plowing of the fields to ensure a good harvest.
• Bon Om Touk (Boat Racing Festival or Cambodian Water Festival): This festival takes place in November and is the biggest festival in Cambodia. It celebrates the end of the rainy season and features boat races, traditional music, and fireworks displays.
• Pchum Ben (Ancestor's Day):This festival takes place in September and is a time to remember and honor deceased ancestors. People visit temples to make offerings of food and prayers.

These festivals not only offer a feast for the senses with their colorful processions, music, and dance but also provide a deeper understanding of the local customs and traditions. Whether you're witnessing the grandeur of Tet in Vietnam or the spiritual solemnity of Pchum Ben in Cambodia, these events are sure to leave a lasting impression. If you're planning a visit to Vietnam and Cambodia, timing your trip to coincide with these festivals can offer a unique and enriching experience

Combining Vietnam and Cambodia: Sample Itineraries

Vietnam and Cambodia are two neighboring countries with convenient transportation links, making it easy to combine them into one seamless journey. You can travel between major cities like Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City by car, flight, or even a scenic cruise along the mighty Mekong River. Other famous tourist destinations are also well-connected by air, such as Da Nang to Siem Reap, Hanoi to Siem Reap, or Hanoi to Phnom Penh.

To fully immerse yourself in the rich cultures and natural wonders of both nations, our travel experts often recommend spending at least two weeks on your Vietnam and Cambodia adventure. While 10 days might suffice to experience the highlights, an extended trip allows you to savor the diverse landscapes, ancient temples, and authentic local life at a more relaxed pace.

For those with limited time, a 5 or 7-day itinerary can still provide a tantalizing taste of the region's most iconic sights and experiences. Below are a few carefully curated itineraries combining the best of Vietnam and Cambodia for your reference:

7-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary Ideas:

• Vietnam Cambodia Highlights (7 Days): This action-packed adventure takes you through Hanoi's bustling streets, the awe-inspiring landscapes of Ninh Binh, and the ethereal beauty of Ha Long Bay. In Cambodia, you'll delve into the majestic Angkor Wat complex and explore charming Khmer villages.
  1. Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, immerse in a city tour, and enjoy a water puppet show and street food tour.
  2. Day 2: Discover Hoa Lu and Ninh Binh with a cycling tour and Tam Coc boat trip.
  3. Day 3: Journey to Ha Long Bay for an Athena Royal Cruise.
  4. Day 4: Continue the Athena Royal Cruise, return to Hanoi, and fly to Siem Reap.
  5. Day 5: Explore the Angkor temples, including Bayon, Angkor Wat, and Bakheng Hill.
  6. Day 6: Visit more Angkor temples like Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, and Ta Keo.
  7. Day 7: Experience a Khmer village and Tonlé Sap Lake before departure.
• Mekong River Cruise & Angkor Wat (7 Days): Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta on a captivating cruise. Explore traditional villages, witness local crafts, and witness the mighty river itself. This itinerary also includes a visit to the breathtaking Angkor Wat complex in Siem Reap.
  • Day 1: Land in Ho Chi Minh City, transfer to My Tho, and begin the Mekong cruise.
  • Day 2-4: Enjoy various activities on the Mekong, including rafting, village tours, and weaving workshops.
  • Day 5: Tour Phnom Penh, fly to Siem Reap, and take a city tour.
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to Angkor, visiting Bayon Temple and Angkor Wat.
  • Day 7: Witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat and explore more temples before departure.
• Vietnam & Cambodia: Da Nang, Hanoi & Siem Reap (7 Days): Experience the diversity of Vietnam and Cambodia. Relax on the pristine beaches of Da Nang, explore the historical treasures of Hanoi, and embark on a journey through the magnificent temples of Angkor.
  • Day 1: Arrive in Da Nang with optional beach time.
  • Day 2: Visit the iconic Golden Bridge.
  • Day 3: Fly to Hanoi for a city tour.
  • Day 4: Day trip to Ninh Binh with temples and boat rides.
  • Day 5: Travel to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor.
  • Day 6: Embark on a day trip to the Angkor temples.
  • Day 7: Explore Banteay Srei and floating villages before departure.

Vietnam and Cambodia in 10 Days

• Landmarks of Vietnam & Cambodia - 10 Days: This itinerary packs a punch, showcasing iconic landmarks across both countries.
  • Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam and explore at your own pace.
  • Day 2: Delve deeper into Hanoi's charm with a full-day sightseeing tour.
  • Day 3: Embark on a captivating overnight cruise through the mystical Ha Long Bay.
  • Day 4: Soak in the morning beauty of Ha Long Bay before transferring to Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Day 5: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and embark on a Ho Chi Minh City tour.
  • Day 6: Take a captivating day trip to the Mekong Delta.
  • Day 7: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and tantalize your taste buds with a street food tour.
  • Day 8: Witness the majesty of Angkor Temples on a dedicated day trip.
  • Day 9: Journey to Banteay Srei and Roluos for a glimpse into ancient Khmer architecture.
  • Day 10: Depart Siem Reap, brimming with memories.
• Unveiling the Cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia - 10 Days: This itinerary delves into the vibrant cultures of both nations.
  • Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi and get acquainted with the city's highlights and a traditional water puppet show.
  • Day 2: Take a captivating day trip to Ninh Binh, where you can cycle through picturesque landscapes and enjoy a scenic sampan ride.
  • Day 3: Immerse yourself in the wonder of Ha Long Bay with an overnight cruise.
  • Day 4: After a morning cruise, fly to Da Nang and transfer to the charming Hoi An Ancient Town.
  • Day 5: Explore the captivating alleys of Hoi An and embark on a countryside cycling adventure.
  • Day 6: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and delve into the Cu Chi Tunnels' wartime history.
  • Day 7: Witness iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City before flying to Siem Reap.
  • Day 8: Explore the awe-inspiring Angkor ruins on a dedicated day trip.
  • Day 9: Visit a traditional Khmer village and embark on a Tonlé Sap boat tour.
  • Day 10: Depart Siem Reap, filled with cultural experiences.

14 Days Best of Vietnam and Cambodia

This itinerary packs in a delightful exploration of both Vietnam and Cambodia:

• Day 1: Arrive Hanoi - Welcome To Vietnam 
• Day 2: Hanoi City Tour – Night Train To Sapa 
• Day 3: Sapa - Visit Hill Tribe Market 
• Day 4: Explore Sapa Hill Tribe Villages – Night Train Back To Hanoi 
• Day 5: Hanoi – Overnight Halong Bay Cruise 
• Day 6: Halong – Hanoi – Danang – Hoian 
• Day 7: Visit Myson Sanctuary & HoiAn Ancient Town 
• Day 8: Hoian – Hue, Visit Old Citadel 
• Day 9: Hue – Saigon, City Tour 
• Day 10: Saigon – Day Trip To Mekong Delta 
• Day 11: Saigon – Visit Cuchi Tunnels & Fly To Siem Reap / Cambodia 
• Day 12: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat Temples Tour 
• Day 13: Siem Reap – Visit Tonle Sap Lake & Floating Village 
• Day 14: Siem Reap - Departure

3 Weeks Vietnam Cambodia Tour  

For a truly in-depth exploration, consider this 3-week itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive In Hanoi - Welcome To Vietnam 
• Day 2: Hanoi – Drive To Ninh Binh: Visit Trang An & Bai Dinh Pagoda - Hanoi 
• Day 3: Hanoi City Tour – Night Train To Sapa 
• Day 4: Sapa: Visit A Hill Tribe Market 
• Day 5: Sapa: Visit Hill Tribe Villages 
• Day 6: Visit Silver Waterfall, Heaven Gate, Cat Cat Village And Back To Hanoi 
• Day 7: Hanoi – Visit Halong Bay And Overnight On Boat 
• Day 8: Halong Bay – Return To Hanoi 
• Day 9: Hanoi - Fly To Hue, Visit Hue Citadel And King Tomb 
• Day 10: Hue – Drive To Hoi An 
• Day 11: Visit Myson Sanctuary And Hoi An Ancient Town 
• Day 12: Hoi An - Street Food Tour 
• Day 13: Hoi An – Visit Ba Na Hill And Golden Bridge - Fly Ho Chi Minh 
• Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City Tour With Cu Chi Tunnels 
• Day 15: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta Tour – Can Tho  
• Day 16: Can Tho: Visit Cai Rang Floating Market - Fly To Siem Reap 
• Day 17: Visit Highlighted Angkor Wat Temples  
• Day 18: Visit Remote Angkor Wat Temples 
• Day 19: Visit The Floating Villages 
• Day 20: Free Leisure Day In Siem Reap 
• Day 21: Siem Reap – Departure

These handcrafted itineraries are just the beginning! Let Asia Travel and Leisure design your perfect adventure in Vietnam and Cambodia. Whether you have 5 or 21 days, we can create a trip that matches your interests and pace. Contact us today or visit our customized tour page to start building your dream Southeast Asia escape. With over 19 years of experience, we turn travel dreams into unforgettable realities.

Visa Information and Considerations

Both Vietnam and Cambodia offer visa options that are convenient for tourists.

Vietnam Visa

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. For many nationalities, including US citizens, a visa is required to enter Vietnam. You can check the Vietnam visa requirements and how to get a visa for Vietnam, for the latest information on visa requirements for your specific nationality.

Length of your stay: There are different types of visas available, depending on how long you plan to stay in Vietnam. A visa on arrival is typically the quickest and easiest option for stays of up to 30 days. E-visas are also available for stays up to 90 days. For longer stays, you will need to apply for a visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Number of entries: You can also choose between a single-entry visa or a multiple-entry visa. A single-entry visa allows you to enter Vietnam once, while a multiple-entry visa allows you to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times during the validity period of your visa.

Here are some of the most common types of visas for Vietnam:

• Vietnam visa on arrival (VOA):This is the most popular option for tourists. You can apply for a VOA online or at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. The processing fee is typically around $25 USD. You will also need to pay a stamping fee upon arrival in Vietnam. This fee is typically around $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa.
• Vietnam E-visa: This is a great option if you want to avoid the hassle of applying for a VOA. You can apply for an e-visa online at the Vietnamese government's website. The processing fee is typically around $25 USD. An e-visa is valid for stays up to 90 days, single or multiple entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country.
• Embassy/Consulate visa: This type of visa is required for stays longer than 90 days or for those who want to work or study in Vietnam. You can apply for an embassy/consulate visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country. The processing fee and requirements will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when applying for a visa to Vietnam:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Vietnam.
• You must have at least one blank page in your passport for the visa stamp.
• You may be required to provide proof of onward travel, such as a plane ticket out of Vietnam.
• You may also be required to provide proof of accommodation in Vietnam.

For Vietnam, many nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival, while others can apply for an electronic visa (e-visa) beforehand. A surprising fact for some visitors is that Vietnam's visa on arrival is now valid for multiple entries, allowing for greater exploration within the country. 

For Cambodia, most tourists can acquire a visa on arrival at the airport or major border crossings. These visas typically last for 30 days and can sometimes be extended while in-country. To learn more about specific Vietnam visa requirements and how to get a visa for Vietnam, visit these helpful resources. For Cambodia, you can find more information about Cambodia visa requirements to ensure a smooth entry process.

Cambodia Visa

You will need a visa to enter Cambodia as a tourist. There are three ways to obtain a visa:

• E-visa: This is the easiest and most convenient option. You can apply for an e-visa online at the official government website [eVisa Cambodia]. The processing time is usually 3 business days, and the visa fee is $36 for US citizens. The e-visa is valid for 30 days and allows for a single entry.
• Visa on Arrival: You can also obtain a visa upon arrival at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or Sihanoukville airports, or at major land border crossings. The visa fee is $30, and you will need to bring two passport photos. The visa is valid for 30 days and allows for a single entry.
• Embassy or Consulate: You can apply for a visa in person at a Cambodian embassy or consulate. This option is typically only necessary if you need a visa valid for longer than 30 days or for multiple entries.

Not all nationalities require a visa for Cambodia. Check if yours is exempt from a visa requirement here.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when applying for a Cambodian tourist visa:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Cambodia.
• You will need to provide proof of onward travel (e.g., a plane ticket out of Cambodia).
• You will need to pay a visa fee.