Vietnam and Cambodia are two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that offer stunning natural and cultural attractions. From the ancient temples of Angkor Wat to the scenic Ha Long Bay, from the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh to the charming town of Hoi An, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The best time to visit these destinations is from November to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant.

Enchanting temples, vibrant cities, and emerald rice paddies - Vietnam and Cambodia ignite the senses with their rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking landscapes. But when is the best time to visit these Southeast Asian gems? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this comprehensive guide unveils the secrets of the ideal season for your unforgettable adventure.

If you are thinking of visiting Vietnam and Cambodia, you might be wondering when is the best time to go. The answer depends on many factors, such as weather, activities, festivals, and prices. In this article, we will help you find out the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia for your preferences and needs.

Vietnam and Cambodia's Climatic Tapestry

Vietnam and Cambodia are two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that share a long and complex history, a rich and diverse culture, and a stunning and varied landscape. Both countries boast tropical climates, but distinct seasons paint their landscapes with contrasting hues. Understanding these seasons is key to tailoring your trip to your preferences, as each season offers different experiences, attractions, and challenges.

Dry Season (November - April)

The dry season in Vietnam and Cambodia is generally warm and sunny, with little rainfall and low humidity. However, there are some regional variations in temperature and precipitation, depending on the latitude and altitude. The north of Vietnam tends to be cooler and drier than the south, while the east and west of Cambodia tend to be hotter and wetter than the center.

The dry season is the peak tourist season in both countries, as it offers the best weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the ideal time to explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the imperial citadel of Hue in Vietnam, to trek the majestic mountains of Sapa in Vietnam and the lush forests of Mondulkiri in Cambodia, and to bask on the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc in Vietnam and the islands of Koh Rong in Cambodia.

However, the dry season also has some drawbacks, such as higher prices, busier attractions, and cooler nights in the north. You may also encounter some occasional fog, haze, or dust in some areas, especially in the Mekong Delta and the Central Highlands. Moreover, you may miss some of the natural beauty and cultural festivities that the other seasons offer.

Shoulder Season (May - June, September - October)

The shoulder season in Vietnam and Cambodia is generally hot and humid, with moderate to heavy rainfall and occasional storms. However, there are some regional variations in temperature and precipitation, depending on the latitude and altitude. The central and southern parts of Vietnam tend to be hotter and wetter than the northern and coastal parts, while the north and east of Cambodia tend to be cooler and drier than the south and west.

The shoulder season is a good time to visit both countries if you are looking for a balance between the weather, the crowds, and the prices. This is the perfect time to enjoy the verdant landscapes and fewer throngs in both countries, as the rain brings life and color to the land. You can also witness the blooming of lotus flowers, a symbol of purity and beauty in both countries, and the harvesting of rice, a staple food and a source of income for many people.

However, the shoulder season also has some challenges, such as unpredictable weather, muddy roads, and insect bites. You may also encounter some travel disruptions, such as flight delays, road closures, or flooding in some areas, especially in the Mekong Delta and the Tonle Sap Lake. Moreover, you may need to pack more clothes and accessories, such as raincoats, umbrellas, and sunscreen, to cope with the changing weather.

Rainy Season (July - August)

The rainy season in Vietnam and Cambodia is generally hot and wet, with heavy rainfall and frequent storms. However, there are some regional variations in temperature and precipitation, depending on the latitude and altitude. The north and central parts of Vietnam tend to be cooler and drier than the south and coastal parts, while the south and west of Cambodia tend to be hotter and wetter than the north and east.

The rainy season is a good time to visit both countries if you are looking for adventure and dramatic scenery, as the rain transforms the landscape into a wonderland of waterfalls, rivers, and rice paddies. This is the ideal time to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of both countries, such as the waterfalls of Dalat in Vietnam and the elephants of Mondulkiri in Cambodia, the rivers of Ninh Binh in Vietnam and the Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, and the rice paddies of Mai Chau in Vietnam and the Battambang in Cambodia.

However, the rainy season also has some risks, such as floods, landslides, and diseases. You may also encounter some travel disruptions, such as flight cancellations, or power outages in some areas, especially in the mountainous and rural regions. Moreover, you may need to be flexible and adaptable, as the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia

the best time to visit vietnam and cambodia
According to the chart above, March and April are the best months to visit Vietnam and Cambodia every year.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, you might wonder when is the best time to visit these two fascinating countries. The answer depends on what you want to see and do, as well as your preferences for weather and crowds.

Vietnam and Cambodia share a similar climate pattern, with two main seasons: dry and wet. The dry season runs from November to April, while the wet season runs from May to October. Generally, the dry season is considered the best time to visit both Vietnam and Cambodia, as it offers clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and less humidity. However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, which means higher prices and more crowds.

The wet season, on the other hand, has its own advantages. Although you can expect frequent rain showers and higher humidity, the wet season also brings lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Moreover, the rain usually falls in short bursts, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the sights and activities.

Of course, Vietnam and Cambodia are large and diverse countries, with different regions having different weather conditions and attractions. Therefore, the best time to visit also depends on where you want to go and what you want to experience.

For example, if you want to explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, you can visit any time of the year, as they are always impressive and awe-inspiring. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, you might prefer to visit in the early morning or late afternoon, or during the shoulder months of May and October.

Similarly, if you want to enjoy the beaches and islands of Vietnam, you can find sunny and warm weather all year round, as long as you choose the right coast. The south coast, including Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc Island, and the Mekong Delta, has the best weather from November to April, while the central coast, including Hoi An, Hue, and Danang, has the best weather from January to August. The north coast, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa, has the best weather from October to April.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia depends on your personal preferences and travel plans. However, you can always find something amazing and memorable to see and do, no matter when you visit. The most important thing is to be flexible, prepared, and open-minded, and you will have a wonderful trip.

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that boasts of rich culture and history. You can marvel at the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, witness the royal splendor of Phnom Penh, or enjoy the natural beauty of Tonle Sap Lake. The best time to visit Cambodia is from November to April, when the weather is dry and mild. You can avoid the rainy season and the scorching heat.

Vietnam is a neighboring country of Cambodia that offers diverse attractions and experiences. You can cruise on the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, explore the charming town of Hoi An, or savor the delicious cuisine of Ho Chi Minh City. The best times in the year to visit Vietnam is also from November to April, when the climate is dry and comfortable. You can enjoy the scenery and the culture without any hassle.

If you want to combine both countries in one trip, you can easily do so by taking a flight or a bus from one capital to another. Vietnam and Cambodia are two amazing destinations in Southeast Asia that have a lot to offer to travelers. From the majestic Angkor Wat to the serene Ha Long Bay, from the historic Phnom Penh to the modern Ho Chi Minh City, from the colorful Hoi An to the diverse Tonle Sap Lake, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The best time to visit these destinations is from November to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. Book your trip now and discover the wonders of Vietnam and Cambodia.

Tailoring Your Trip to Your Dreams

When is the perfect time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia are two amazing destinations that offer a variety of experiences, attractions, and cultures. However, not everyone has the same travel style, preferences, and priorities. Some people may love the sun and the sand, while others may prefer the mountains and the forests. Some people may seek adventure and thrill, while others may look for relaxation and peace. Some people may want to immerse themselves in the local culture and history, while others may want to enjoy the modern amenities and entertainment. Some people may travel on a tight budget, while others may splurge on luxury and comfort. Some people may want to avoid the crowds and the noise, while others may enjoy the company and the atmosphere.

That's why, beyond the seasons, it is important to tailor your trip to your dreams. Depending on what you are looking for, you can choose the best places, activities, and times to visit Vietnam and Cambodia. Let's dive deeper into some of the common travel themes and how to make the most of them in both countries.

Beach Bliss

If you are a beach lover, you will be delighted by the stunning coastline and islands of Vietnam and Cambodia. Both countries boast some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Southeast Asia, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the clear water, and relax on the soft sand. You can also enjoy some water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, and kayaking, or explore some of the nearby attractions, such as fishing villages, markets, and temples.

The best time to enjoy the beach bliss in Vietnam and Cambodia is from December to April, during the dry season. This is when the weather is sunny and dry, the sea is calm and clear, and the humidity is low. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier beaches. Some of the best places to visit for beach bliss are:

  • Nha Trang:- a coastal city in central Vietnam: Nha Trang is a popular destination for beach lovers, with a long and wide beach, a lively promenade, and a range of resorts, restaurants, and bars. You can also visit the nearby islands, such as Hon Mun, Hon Tam, and Hon Tre, for more secluded and scenic beaches.
  • Phu Quoc - an island in southern Vietnam: Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise, with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests. You can relax, swim, snorkel, dive, and enjoy the fresh seafood and local specialties in this island getaway. You can also visit the Phu Quoc National Park, the Phu Quoc Prison Museum, and the Dinh Cau Temple for some cultural and natural attractions.
  • Sihanoukville - a coastal city in southern Cambodia: Sihanoukville is a gateway to the islands of the Koh Rong archipelago, where you can find some of the most pristine and idyllic beaches in Cambodia. You can also enjoy the nightlife, shopping, and dining options in the city, or visit the nearby Ream National Park, the Kbal Chhay Waterfall, and the Wat Leu Temple for some diversity.

Trekking Thrills

If you are an adventure seeker, you will be amazed by the stunning mountains and forests of Vietnam and Cambodia. Both countries offer some of the most challenging and rewarding trekking opportunities in Southeast Asia, where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the diverse wildlife, and the rich culture. You can also experience some of the most authentic and memorable homestays, where you can stay with the local people, learn about their traditions, and taste their food.

The best time to enjoy the trekking thrills in Vietnam and Cambodia is from November to April, during the dry season. This is when the weather is clear and cool, the trails are dry and safe, and the views are spectacular. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier trails. Some of the best places to visit for trekking thrills are:

  • Sapa - a mountainous town in northern Vietnam: Sapa is renowned for its stunning scenery of terraced rice fields, misty valleys, and ethnic villages. You can enjoy trekking, homestays, and cultural exchanges with the local people in this peaceful and picturesque place. You can also visit the Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Indochina, the Muong Hoa Valley, the Silver Waterfall, and the Cat Cat Village for some more attractions.
  • Cardamom Mountains:: A mountain range in western Cambodia, the Cardamom Mountains are one of the last remaining wilderness areas in Southeast Asia, with a rich biodiversity and a remote and rugged terrain. You can enjoy trekking, camping, and wildlife watching in this wild and authentic place. You can also visit the Chi Phat Community, the O'Som River, the Veal Ta Prak Pool, and the Chhay Chrey Rapids for some more activities.

Cultural Immersion

If you are a culture lover, you will be fascinated by the ancient and modern history and heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia. Both countries have a long and complex history, a rich and diverse culture, and a stunning and varied architecture. You can explore some of the most impressive and iconic monuments, temples, and pagodas in both countries, where you can marvel at the art, design, and craftsmanship of different eras and civilizations. You can also experience some of the most vibrant and festive occasions in both countries, where you can join the locals in celebrating their traditions, beliefs, and values.

The best time to enjoy the cultural immersion in Vietnam and Cambodia is from November to April, during the dry season. This is when the weather is sunny and dry, the attractions are open and accessible, and the festivals are abundant and lively. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier attractions. Some of the best places to visit for cultural immersion are:

  • Hue, a city in central Vietnam: Hue was the former imperial capital of Vietnam, and the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last royal family of Vietnam. You can explore the Hue Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see the royal palaces, tombs, and temples, as well as the Forbidden Purple City, the former residence of the emperors. You can also visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest and most revered pagoda in Hue, the Perfume River, the scenic and poetic river that flows through the city, and the Dong Ba Market, the largest and oldest market in Hue.
  • Angkor Wat: The largest and most impressive religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Cambodia's ancient Khmer civilization. You can marvel at the intricate carvings, statues, and towers of this temple complex, as well as the surrounding ruins and forests. You can also visit the Angkor Thom, the former capital of the Khmer Empire, where you can see the Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King, as well as the Ta Prohm, the jungle temple that was featured in the movie Tomb Raider.
  • Tet Festival: The Vietnamese New Year, usually celebrated in late January or early February, depending on the lunar calendar, is the most significant and joyous festival in Vietnam. It is a time for family reunions, ancestral worship, traditional food, and colorful decorations. You can join the locals in visiting the temples and pagodas, offering incense and flowers, watching the lion and dragon dances, and exchanging lucky money and wishes.
  • Water Festival: One of the most important and festive occasions in Cambodia, usually held in November, depending on the lunar calendar, the Water Festival celebrates the reversal of the flow of the Tonle Sap River, which provides life and prosperity to the Cambodian people. You can watch the boat races, the illuminated boats, and the fireworks on the riverfront of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, as well as join the locals in throwing water, playing games, and enjoying the music and food.

Budget Travel

If you are a budget traveler, you will be pleased by the affordability and value of Vietnam and Cambodia. Both countries offer some of the lowest prices and best deals in Southeast Asia, where you can enjoy a variety of experiences, attractions, and cultures without breaking the bank. You can find cheap and comfortable accommodation, transportation, and food in both countries, as well as some free or discounted attractions and activities.

The best time to enjoy the budget travel in Vietnam and Cambodia is from May to June and from September to October, during the shoulder seasons. This is when the weather is still good, but the prices are lower and the crowds are thinner. You can also find some special offers and discounts in some places, especially in the rainy season.

Nature's Embrace

If you are a nature lover, you will be enchanted by the mesmerizing waterfalls, rivers, and rice paddies of Vietnam and Cambodia. Both countries offer some of the most scenic and diverse natural attractions in Southeast Asia, where you can enjoy the beauty, the tranquility, and the wildlife of the land. You can also experience some of the most adventurous and thrilling activities, such as cruising, rafting, and zip-lining, or explore some of the hidden and unspoiled gems, such as caves, islands, and forests.

The best time to enjoy the nature's embrace in Vietnam and Cambodia is from July to August, during the rainy season. This is when the rain transforms the landscape into a wonderland of waterfalls, rivers, and rice paddies. The rain also brings life and color to the land, making it more lush and green. However, this is also the low tourist season, so you may encounter lower prices and fewer crowds. Some of the best places to visit for nature's embrace are:

  • Kratie, a province in eastern Cambodia: Kratie is a rural and tranquil destination with a riverine and pastoral charm. You can visit the Kampi Pool, where you can see the rare and endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, the Sambor Town, where you can see the pre-Angkorian temples, and the Koh Trong Island, where you can see the traditional villages and fruit orchards. You can also enjoy the waterfalls, the rapids, and the floating villages along the Mekong River.
  • Mekong River, the longest and most important river in Southeast Asia: the Mekong River flows through six countries, including Vietnam and Cambodia. You can cruise the Mekong River, where you can see the diverse and dynamic scenery, culture, and wildlife of the region. You can also visit the Mekong Delta, the fertile and populous area in southern Vietnam, where you can see the floating markets, the coconut farms, and the mangrove forests, and the Tonle Sap Lake, the largest and most biodiverse freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, where you can see the floating villages, the flooded forests, and the bird sanctuaries.

Avoiding the Crowds

If you are a solitude seeker, you will be pleased by the less-crowded and more-peaceful destinations in Vietnam and Cambodia. Both countries offer some of the most tranquil and serene places in Southeast Asia, where you can enjoy the silence, the privacy, and the relaxation of the land. You can also experience some of the most authentic and intimate interactions, such as homestays, cooking classes, and meditation sessions, or explore some of the off-the-beaten-path and undiscovered spots, such as ethnic villages, ancient ruins, and remote islands.

The best time to avoid the crowds in Vietnam and Cambodia is from May to June and from September to October, during the shoulder seasons, or from November to February, during the cooler months of the dry season. This is when the weather is still good, but the prices are lower and the crowds are thinner. You can also find some special offers and discounts in some places, especially in the rainy season. Some of the best places to visit for avoiding the crowds are:

  • Hoi An - a charming ancient town in central Vietnam: Hoi An is famous for its lantern-lit streets, colorful markets, and tailor shops. You can also explore the nearby countryside, beaches, and islands by bike, boat, or motorbike. Hoi An is a popular destination, but you can avoid the crowds by visiting in the shoulder seasons or the cooler months, when the weather is pleasant and the atmosphere is calm. You can also visit in the early morning or the late evening, when the town is more quiet and romantic.
  • Angkor Wat - the largest and most impressive religious monument in the world: Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Cambodia's ancient Khmer civilization. You can also visit the Angkor Thom, the former capital of the Khmer Empire, where you can see the Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King, as well as the Ta Prohm, the jungle temple that was featured in the movie Tomb Raider. Angkor Wat is a popular destination, but you can avoid the crowds by visiting in the shoulder seasons or the cooler months, when the weather is comfortable and the visitors are fewer. You can also visit in the early morning or the late afternoon, when the light is more beautiful and the mood is more serene.

Regional Nuances

Vietnam and Cambodia are two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that share a long and complex history, a rich and diverse culture, and a stunning and varied landscape. Both countries boast tropical climates, but each region experiences the seasons slightly differently. Depending on where you are, you may encounter different weather conditions, natural attractions, and cultural events. Therefore, it is important to remember the regional nuances when planning your trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.

Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is the region that covers the capital city of Hanoi, the mountainous areas of Sapa and Ha Giang, and the world-famous Ha Long Bay. This region has four distinct seasons, with the dry season lasting from October to May and the rainy season lasting from June to September. The dry season is generally cooler and drier than the rainy season, with the average temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C and the average rainfall ranging from 20 mm to 90 mm. However, there are some variations within the dry season, such as the winter months of December to February, when the temperature can drop to below 10°C and the fog and mist can reduce the visibility, and the spring months of March to May, when the temperature can rise to above 30°C and the humidity can increase.

The dry season is the best time to visit northern Vietnam, as it offers the most favorable weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the ideal time to explore the historical and cultural attractions of Hanoi, such as the Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, to trek the verdant mountains and ethnic villages of Sapa and Ha Giang, and to cruise the stunning seascape of limestone pillars, islands, and caves of Ha Long Bay. However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier attractions. Moreover, you may need to pack some warm clothes and accessories, such as jackets, scarves, and gloves, to cope with the cold weather, especially in the winter months.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is the region that covers the coastal cities of Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang, the imperial city of Hue, and the highland city of Da Lat. This region has two distinct seasons, with the dry season starting in February and extending to September and the rainy season starting in October and extending to January. The dry season is generally hotter and drier than the rainy season, with the average temperature ranging from 25°C to 35°C and the average rainfall ranging from 10 mm to 80 mm. However, there are some variations within the dry season, such as the summer months of June to August, when the temperature can soar to above 40°C and the heat can be unbearable, and the autumn months of September to November, when the temperature can drop to below 20°C and the rain can be occasional, especially in Hue.

The dry season is the best time to visit central Vietnam, as it offers the most favorable weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the ideal time to explore the charming and romantic attractions of Hoi An, such as the lantern-lit streets, the colorful markets, and the tailor shops, to visit the impressive and iconic monuments, temples, and pagodas of Hue, such as the Hue Citadel, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the royal tombs, and to enjoy the beautiful and pristine beaches of Da Nang and Nha Trang, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the clear water, and relax on the soft sand. However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier attractions. Moreover, you may need to pack some light clothes and accessories, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to cope with the hot weather, especially in the summer months.

Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam is the region that covers the largest and most populous city of Ho Chi Minh City, the fertile and populous area of the Mekong Delta, and the tropical island of Phu Quoc. This region has two distinct seasons, with the dry season spanning from November to April and the rainy season spanning from May to October. The dry season is generally warmer and drier than the rainy season, with the average temperature ranging from 25°C to 35°C and the average rainfall ranging from 10 mm to 50 mm. However, there are some variations within the dry season, such as the winter months of December to February, when the temperature can be slightly cooler and the humidity can be lower, and the spring months of March to April, when the temperature can be slightly hotter and the humidity can be higher.

The dry season is the best time to visit southern Vietnam, as it offers the most favorable weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the ideal time to explore the vibrant and cosmopolitan attractions of Ho Chi Minh City, such as the Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, to cruise the Mekong River, where you can see the diverse and dynamic scenery, culture, and wildlife of the region, and to relax on the white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests of Phu Quoc, where you can enjoy the fresh seafood and local specialties. However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier attractions. Moreover, you may need to pack some light clothes and accessories, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to cope with the warm weather.

Cambodia

Cambodia is a country that is located in the southern part of the Indochina Peninsula, bordering Vietnam to the east, Laos to the north, and Thailand to the west. Cambodia has a similar climate to southern Vietnam, with a dry season stretching from November to April and a rainy season stretching from May to October. The dry season is generally hot and dry, with the average temperature ranging from 25°C to 35°C and the average rainfall ranging from 10 mm to 40 mm. However, there are some variations within the dry season, such as the winter months of December to February, when the temperature can be slightly cooler and the humidity can be lower, and the summer months of March to May, when the temperature can soar to above 40°C and the heat can be unbearable.

The dry season is the best time to visit Cambodia, as it offers the most favorable weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the ideal time to visit the largest and most impressive religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Cambodia's ancient Khmer civilization, to visit the capital and largest city of Phnom Penh, a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis with a blend of colonial, traditional, and modern architecture, and to visit the coastal city of Sihanoukville, a gateway to the islands of the Koh Rong archipelago, where you can find some of the most pristine and idyllic beaches in Cambodia. However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter higher prices and busier attractions. Moreover, you may need to pack some light clothes and accessories, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to cope with the hot weather.

Insider Tips for travelling to Vietnam and Cambodia

Many consider December to March the emerald season - the dry season's peak - offering ideal weather for most activities. Expect clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant landscapes. However, this also coincides with peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

If you are planning to visit Vietnam and Cambodia during the emerald season, here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your trip:

  1. Book early: The emerald season is the most popular time to visit both countries, so you may face limited availability and higher rates for flights, hotels, and tours. To avoid disappointment and save money, it is advisable to book your trip as early as possible, preferably at least three to six months in advance.
  2. Be flexible: The emerald season is also the busiest time to visit both countries, so you may encounter long queues and crowded attractions. To avoid frustration and enjoy a more relaxed visit, it is advisable to be flexible with your itinerary and timing. For example, you can visit the popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is more beautiful and the mood is more serene. You can also explore some of the less-crowded and more-peaceful destinations, such as the ethnic villages in Sapa, the pepper plantations in Kampot, or the islands of Koh Rong.
  3. Pack smart: The emerald season is generally sunny and dry, but there are some regional and seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. To be prepared for any weather conditions, it is advisable to pack smart and layer your clothes. For example, you can pack some warm clothes and accessories, such as jackets, scarves, and gloves, for the cooler nights in the north of Vietnam. You can also pack some light clothes and accessories, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, for the hotter days in the south of Vietnam and Cambodia. You can also pack some raincoats, umbrellas, and waterproof bags, in case of occasional showers or storms.
  4. Embrace the culture: The emerald season coincides with some of the most important and festive occasions in both countries, such as the Tet Festival in Vietnam and the Chaul Chnam Thmey in Cambodia. These are great opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and community spirit, as well as to witness some of the most colorful and lively events. To embrace the culture, it is advisable to learn some basic phrases and customs, respect the dress codes and etiquette, and participate in the celebrations and activities. You can also try some of the traditional food and drinks, such as the banh chung, the sticky rice cake, and the "ruou can", the rice wine, in Vietnam, and the kralan, the sticky rice cake, and the teuk ampil, the palm juice, in Cambodia. If you want to learn more about the culture of these two countries, read the articles about Vietnamese culture and Cambodian culture

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hottest months in Vietnam and Cambodia?

Is it safe to travel during the rainy season?

What are some must-pack items for my trip?

What currency should I exchange?

Do I need a visa for Vietnam and Cambodia?



4.1904761904762 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1Rating 4.19 (336 Votes)

 

Last updated on 2024-02-16 06:13:47. 

Ask a question

We answer all questions, however, some questions we will answer privately via email so they will not appear on this website.


Customize Vietnam Luxury Tours

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

Dreaming of a tailor-made trip to Vietnam? Tell us your preferences and we'll send you a customized itinerary and price!
(We'll get back to you within 8 business hours)
HANOI - VIETNAM
5 Floor, HTK Building,
98 Nguyen Van Cu St, Long Bien Dist., Hanoi
T: +8424 3942 9444 - F: +8424 3942 9442
HCM CITY - VIETNAM
5th Floor Hong Anh Japan Bld.,
24 Truong Son Str., Ward 2, Tan Binh Dist., HCMC
Tel: 0084 28 3535 8444
SIEM REAP - CAMBODIA
67 Oum Khun Street,
Khum Svay Dankum, Siem Reap
T: +855 6396 7008 - F: 855 6396 7009
LUANG PRABANG - LAOS
No 203, Ban Mano,
Luang Prabang, Laos PDR.
T: +856 7191 9444 - F: +856 7191 9333
YANGON - MYANMAR
6th Floor, 158 Building, 45 Street,
Botataung Township, Yangon
T: +95 944 312 1788 / +951 201026
© 2024 TRAVEL VIETNAM TRAVEL VIETNAM. International Tour Operator licence No: 0919/TCDL. All rights Reserved. DMCA.com Protection Status
A division of Asia Travel & Leisure Asia Travel & Leisure.