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WEATHER IN VIETNAM
Vietnam’s climate and weather are very different and characteristic from one end of the country to the other due to its “S” shape and differences in latitude and varied terrain.
Vietnam is often depicted as a place with steamy jungles and hot beaches, but country’s climate is quite diverse, with freezing temperatures and even snow in its northern highlands.
Vietnam has two distinct monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon brings in wet and humid weather while the northeast monsoon delivers drizzly, colder temperatures to the north and dry weather to the south.
Characteristics of the climate in Vietnam:
Vietnam is often depicted as a place with steamy jungles and hot beaches, but country’s climate is quite diverse, with freezing temperatures and even snow in its northern highlands.
Vietnam has two distinct monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon brings in wet and humid weather while the northeast monsoon delivers drizzly, colder temperatures to the north and dry weather to the south.
Characteristics of the climate in Vietnam:
Table of Contents
Best time to go to Vietnam
Northern vietnam
(Ha Giang – Sapa – Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh- Mai Chau..)
Northern Vietnam has four seasons: during its winter months December-February, it may dip down to 5-6°C occasionally, even below zero in mountainous areas. The summer months of June and July are hot, with daytime temperatures reaching 35°C. Drizzling rains and more pleasant temperatures come in autumn, August-November, and the spring, March-April.
Halong Bay landscape is awe-inspiring to take a cruise tour throughout the year, except the typhoon season from July to August.
Ha Giang and Sapa set location in far northeast mountainous regions where the winter cold can be frozen and snowed in late December and January. The most suitable time to travel to the Vietnamese northern mountain is dry months, from September to April. Not to mention, Sapa in September and Ha Giang in November are most beautiful with golden rice terraces and buckwheat flower blossoms.
All in all, the best time to visit the northern Vietnam range from October to next April. Despite the cold in December and January, you can enjoy the most beautiful Vietnam in the dry season and vibrant festival season.
Northern Vietnam has four seasons: during its winter months December-February, it may dip down to 5-6°C occasionally, even below zero in mountainous areas. The summer months of June and July are hot, with daytime temperatures reaching 35°C. Drizzling rains and more pleasant temperatures come in autumn, August-November, and the spring, March-April.
- Dec – Feb: 5°C to 25°C, mostly dry, grey.
- March: 15°C to 30°C, season change, dry.
- April – June: 25°C to 35°C, some heavy showers.
- Sept – Oct: 25°C to 35°C, clear weather, occasional showers.
Halong Bay landscape is awe-inspiring to take a cruise tour throughout the year, except the typhoon season from July to August.
Ha Giang and Sapa set location in far northeast mountainous regions where the winter cold can be frozen and snowed in late December and January. The most suitable time to travel to the Vietnamese northern mountain is dry months, from September to April. Not to mention, Sapa in September and Ha Giang in November are most beautiful with golden rice terraces and buckwheat flower blossoms.
All in all, the best time to visit the northern Vietnam range from October to next April. Despite the cold in December and January, you can enjoy the most beautiful Vietnam in the dry season and vibrant festival season.
Central Vietnam
(Hoi An – Da Nang – Hue – Da Lat – Nha Trang)
Central Vietnam has warm temperatures year round, with the hottest months in middle of the year, and cooler, drier days from November to April.
In Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang, the hottest time and dry climate occur from mid-Jan to August. During this time, the average temperature is around 30°C and sometimes can peak at 40°C. The rainy season starts from August to December with the highest precipitation as well as a high chance of floods between Oct and Nov. If you intend to visit Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang, remember to avoid this typhoon season.
In the central highland, Da Lat experiences the wet weather from June to October and dry, cold season in December and January.
Further south of Central Vietnam, coastal provinces from Nha Trang to Mui Ne features a longer dry season, which is typically from January to September. In contrast, the summertime in the South-Central region has higher temperatures. As being less affected by the rain, the rainy season runs only from October to early December.
All things considered, you should avoid visiting Central Vietnam during the rainy season (Sept- Oct) unless you want to experience the heavy storms as well as floods.
Central Vietnam has warm temperatures year round, with the hottest months in middle of the year, and cooler, drier days from November to April.
- Dec – Feb: 15°C to 30°C, mostly dry, grey.
- March – Aug: 25°C to 35°C, dry, ideal.
- Sept-Nov: 23°C to 32°C, rain risk due to atmospheric depressions.
In Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang, the hottest time and dry climate occur from mid-Jan to August. During this time, the average temperature is around 30°C and sometimes can peak at 40°C. The rainy season starts from August to December with the highest precipitation as well as a high chance of floods between Oct and Nov. If you intend to visit Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang, remember to avoid this typhoon season.
In the central highland, Da Lat experiences the wet weather from June to October and dry, cold season in December and January.
Further south of Central Vietnam, coastal provinces from Nha Trang to Mui Ne features a longer dry season, which is typically from January to September. In contrast, the summertime in the South-Central region has higher temperatures. As being less affected by the rain, the rainy season runs only from October to early December.
All things considered, you should avoid visiting Central Vietnam during the rainy season (Sept- Oct) unless you want to experience the heavy storms as well as floods.
Southern Vietnam
Southern Vietnam has a dry season from November to April and a wet season from July to October.
Nha Trang : All year: 25 to 35°C
Phan Thiet and Vung Tau:
All year: 25 à 30°C Phu Quoc : All year: 25 to 35°C.
The South of Vietnam is typical of a humid tropical climate which remains constant temperatures from 25 to 35°C all year round. There are two main seasons: the rainy and the dry season. The dry season lasts from November to the end of April when it is hotter and more humid from late February to April.
The rainy season runs from June to November with the highest rainfall occurring from June to August. During the rainy time, you will most likely see sudden and heavy downpour rain in mid-afternoon in Ho Chi Minh City. Also, there is frequent flooding in the months between July and August. Despite the wet climate, the rainy season is a good time of the year to visit Southern Vietnam if you don’t mind experiencing a few raindrops. The Mekong Delta becomes more attractive and lively when the dry season comes. Though the best time to enjoy vibrant floating markets is dry season, Mekong Delta in monsoon season is surprisingly gorgeous for photography as dramatic thunderheads float across and rice paddies are covered in vibrant emerald green. To sum up, the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City and other southern provinces is in the dry season, especially the months from December to April. If you are fed up with the cold weather, Southern Vietnam is a perfect place to take a break from it.
- All year: 25°C to 30°C.
- Nov – June: 22°C to 34°C, dry and enjoyable especially from December to February.
- July – Oct: 25 to 35°C, showers late afternoon, especially in September.
Nha Trang : All year: 25 to 35°C
Phan Thiet and Vung Tau:
All year: 25 à 30°C Phu Quoc : All year: 25 to 35°C.
The South of Vietnam is typical of a humid tropical climate which remains constant temperatures from 25 to 35°C all year round. There are two main seasons: the rainy and the dry season. The dry season lasts from November to the end of April when it is hotter and more humid from late February to April.
The rainy season runs from June to November with the highest rainfall occurring from June to August. During the rainy time, you will most likely see sudden and heavy downpour rain in mid-afternoon in Ho Chi Minh City. Also, there is frequent flooding in the months between July and August. Despite the wet climate, the rainy season is a good time of the year to visit Southern Vietnam if you don’t mind experiencing a few raindrops. The Mekong Delta becomes more attractive and lively when the dry season comes. Though the best time to enjoy vibrant floating markets is dry season, Mekong Delta in monsoon season is surprisingly gorgeous for photography as dramatic thunderheads float across and rice paddies are covered in vibrant emerald green. To sum up, the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City and other southern provinces is in the dry season, especially the months from December to April. If you are fed up with the cold weather, Southern Vietnam is a perfect place to take a break from it.
Best time to go to Vietnam
Vietnam weather in spring
February
February features the most optimal weather conditions, dry and rising temperatures, across the country. The North experiences cool days and little rains in the beginnings of springtime, while the Central and South have clear skies and warm seawater. The average temperature in the North is 17°C, the Central is 25°C, and the South is 27°C. What to expect in February?
With regard to the weather, March must be the best month to visit Vietnam for a whole country itinerary. In the North, the temperatures tend to rise, making March an ideal time to go trekking to the highlands and take a boat tour in Ha Long Bay. In the South and Central coast, you can enjoy sunshine days and mild weather on the beaches. What to expect in Vietnam March?
As the summer approaches, April is expected warmer temperatures and light rains in the North. The central coast and highlands have crystal skies and beautiful beaches. April is the end of the dry season; then you can see a low chance of rain in the South. What to expect in Vietnam April?
February features the most optimal weather conditions, dry and rising temperatures, across the country. The North experiences cool days and little rains in the beginnings of springtime, while the Central and South have clear skies and warm seawater. The average temperature in the North is 17°C, the Central is 25°C, and the South is 27°C. What to expect in February?
- Vietnamese Tet Holiday usually falls in early February then you can take consideration to visit the country during this period. It is a perfect time to learn about Vietnamese culture and traditional cuisine. However, please note that there is an upsurge of the service cost on the very first days of Lunar New Year.
- Vietnam also welcomes the blooming season of various types of flowers, including cherry blossoms in Da Lat; plum, apricot, and peach blossoms in the northern mountains like Sapa, Ha Giang.
With regard to the weather, March must be the best month to visit Vietnam for a whole country itinerary. In the North, the temperatures tend to rise, making March an ideal time to go trekking to the highlands and take a boat tour in Ha Long Bay. In the South and Central coast, you can enjoy sunshine days and mild weather on the beaches. What to expect in Vietnam March?
- As the best time to go to Vietnam, March gives the driest and most moderate season to visit the South and Central coast cities like Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An.
- March is the season of white coffee flowers in the central highlands, Tay Nguyen and Da Lat. It is the most wonderful time to both enjoy the weather and admire the bloom season.
As the summer approaches, April is expected warmer temperatures and light rains in the North. The central coast and highlands have crystal skies and beautiful beaches. April is the end of the dry season; then you can see a low chance of rain in the South. What to expect in Vietnam April?
- Making the best weather in Vietnam, April is a perfect time to visit islands (Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island, Ly Son, Phu Quoc), caves (Phong Nha), and beaches (Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang).
Vietnam weather in summer
May
May is a sign of the new season in Vietnam, summer in the North, and monsoon season in the Central and South. You can hardly feel the heat and frequent rain in early May. The North is still dry and vibrant with a maximum temperature of 30°C. The Central has the best climate in May; meanwhile, the South is getting hot with short afternoon downpours. What to expect in Vietnam May?
Vietnam experiences higher temperatures and more frequent thunderstorms in June. However, the bright blue sky on sunny days is perfect for photography. In the northern, it is hitting up to reach mid-30s°C on average; in the central, it is still expected decent weather; in the southern and central highlands, floods are increasingly common. What to expect in Vietnam June?
Like June weather, downpours can happen at both ends of the country, with strong winds and thunderstorms. In southern, the monsoon season also hits its peak with daily downpours. The overheat temperatures can peak at 40°C and cool down until midnight. However, the pretty clear sky and bright sunshine are perfect to enjoy beach relaxation across the country. What to expect in Vietnam July?
Known as the peak rainy month in northern and central Vietnam, heavy storms occur frequently. August temperatures are not as high as June and July averages, from 27 – 32°C in Hanoi and lower in Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. It also marks the beginnings of typhoon season in the North and flooding season in Mekong Delta. What to expect in Vietnam August?
May is a sign of the new season in Vietnam, summer in the North, and monsoon season in the Central and South. You can hardly feel the heat and frequent rain in early May. The North is still dry and vibrant with a maximum temperature of 30°C. The Central has the best climate in May; meanwhile, the South is getting hot with short afternoon downpours. What to expect in Vietnam May?
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- As the butterfly season in Ninh Binh, May is the best time to trek at Cuc Phuong National Park to catch this stunning sight and discover the ecosystem in Vietnam.
- The mountainous areas in northern Vietnam come to changing seasons of rice terraces. You can see the paddy fields turning into mirroring patches filled with water for the preparation of the next crop
Vietnam experiences higher temperatures and more frequent thunderstorms in June. However, the bright blue sky on sunny days is perfect for photography. In the northern, it is hitting up to reach mid-30s°C on average; in the central, it is still expected decent weather; in the southern and central highlands, floods are increasingly common. What to expect in Vietnam June?
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- Tropical beaches and coastline cities are the best destination to visit in June. It is a good time to visit Halong Bay, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Con Dao, etc. to enjoy pristine beaches. Particularly, June is the month of the turtles hatching season in Con Dao Island.
- Late June is the best time to visit Da Nang and contemplate the International Firework Competition with the most captivating firework show than ever.
- Sapa becomes more appealing in blooming lavender season at Sun World Fansipan Legend.
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Like June weather, downpours can happen at both ends of the country, with strong winds and thunderstorms. In southern, the monsoon season also hits its peak with daily downpours. The overheat temperatures can peak at 40°C and cool down until midnight. However, the pretty clear sky and bright sunshine are perfect to enjoy beach relaxation across the country. What to expect in Vietnam July?
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- The central region between Da Nang and Nha Trang is the best place to enjoy seascape in July. Despite the heat and infrequency of the rain, Vietnam weather in July is perfect for outdoor water activities on the central coastline.
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Known as the peak rainy month in northern and central Vietnam, heavy storms occur frequently. August temperatures are not as high as June and July averages, from 27 – 32°C in Hanoi and lower in Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. It also marks the beginnings of typhoon season in the North and flooding season in Mekong Delta. What to expect in Vietnam August?
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- August is still a good time to travel to Vietnam with a variety of rain-free hours in the day. On the whole, the central coast like Nha Trang is still amazing to spend a couple of days relaxing.
- Due to the peak of the wet season, August is considered one of the cheapest months to go to Vietnam. If you aren’t afraid of the floods and high chances of Ha Long cruise tour cancellation, travel to Vietnam in August will give unique experiences.
Viet nam weather in autumn
September
As the start of autumn, September is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, when the temperature and rainfall drop considerably in the North. In the south and central highlands, the rainy season still happens to cause flooding season in some main destinations like Hoi An, Phong Nha – Ke Bang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta. What to expect in Vietnam September
October is the official sign of autumn in northern Vietnam when the temperatures fall a little bit further, the rainfall is lesser, and the air gets chillier. The central regions receive less sunshine and more rainfall, resulting in severe flooding in Hoi An Ancient Town. Meanwhile, the southern areas are drier and warmer.What to expect in Vietnam October?
November is another best time of year to visit Vietnam, from the northern loop to the southern tip of the country. During November, the North remains a pleasant climate of late autumn; the temperatures drop further down to an average of 24°C; the humidity also decreases, and the air is clearer. The Central is at the end of the rainy season due to the northeasterly winter monsoon. Meanwhile, the South experiences balmy days after the monsoon season. What to expect in Vietnam November?
As the start of autumn, September is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, when the temperature and rainfall drop considerably in the North. In the south and central highlands, the rainy season still happens to cause flooding season in some main destinations like Hoi An, Phong Nha – Ke Bang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta. What to expect in Vietnam September
- September is the best time to visit Hanoi thanks to the romantic atmosphere of the cool breeze along with seasons of milk flower and green rice.
- It is highly expected to harvest season in northern mountainous areas. Sapa and Mu Cang Chai are the highlights to catch the sight of golden rice terraces in September.
October is the official sign of autumn in northern Vietnam when the temperatures fall a little bit further, the rainfall is lesser, and the air gets chillier. The central regions receive less sunshine and more rainfall, resulting in severe flooding in Hoi An Ancient Town. Meanwhile, the southern areas are drier and warmer.What to expect in Vietnam October?
- As the best time to visit North Vietnam, October is a great month for trekking in Sapa and other northern provinces.
- October is another blooming season of Vietnam to admire the charm of buckwheat flowers in Ha Giang and wild sunflowers in Da Lat.
- It is also the best time of year to behold the beauty of Ba Be Lake (Bac Kan Province) and Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang Province).
November is another best time of year to visit Vietnam, from the northern loop to the southern tip of the country. During November, the North remains a pleasant climate of late autumn; the temperatures drop further down to an average of 24°C; the humidity also decreases, and the air is clearer. The Central is at the end of the rainy season due to the northeasterly winter monsoon. Meanwhile, the South experiences balmy days after the monsoon season. What to expect in Vietnam November?
- Northern mountains in Vietnam are most stunning in November, with a cloud hunting trip, a trekking tour, or buckwheat flower sightseeing.
- November is also a perfect time to take an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay and go trekking in Cat Ba National Park.
Vietnam weather in winter
December
December is one of the driest months in Vietnam, making the least rain in most parts of the country. In the North, the beginning of winter brings balmy temperatures of 20°C on average, occasional drizzles, and chilly breezes. In central Vietnam, the end of the rainy season offers average temperatures of 24°C and the landscapes become more stunning in their original beauties. In the South, it is consistently sunny with temperatures averaging at 26°C. What to expect in Vietnam December
January is one of the coldest months but the best months of high season in Vietnam. In some northern provinces, you will find the extremely cold winter (average temperatures of 15°C) with frequent drizzles, persistent mists, frozen, and rare snowfall. In the central and south, it is at peak of the dry season with average temperatures of around 25 – 30°C. What to expect in Vietnam January
December is one of the driest months in Vietnam, making the least rain in most parts of the country. In the North, the beginning of winter brings balmy temperatures of 20°C on average, occasional drizzles, and chilly breezes. In central Vietnam, the end of the rainy season offers average temperatures of 24°C and the landscapes become more stunning in their original beauties. In the South, it is consistently sunny with temperatures averaging at 26°C. What to expect in Vietnam December
- December marks the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City and southern beaches like Mui Ne, Phu Quoc, etc. to get away from the coldness in the North.
- It is best to get some chilly in the northern mountains. If the cold doesn’t bother you, go experience the rare snowfall in Sapa and the surroundings.
- Christmas and New Year Eve could be amazing in large cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.
January is one of the coldest months but the best months of high season in Vietnam. In some northern provinces, you will find the extremely cold winter (average temperatures of 15°C) with frequent drizzles, persistent mists, frozen, and rare snowfall. In the central and south, it is at peak of the dry season with average temperatures of around 25 – 30°C. What to expect in Vietnam January
- Late January is usually the last month of Vietnamese lunar year, making the atmosphere bustling and festive. It is the best time to visit Vietnam for deeply cultural insights.
- The warmth in southern and central creates favorable conditions to enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkeling, diving, water skiing, and other more.