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Best Time to Visit Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos Overview
Before we go into details on Best Time to Visit Vietnam Cambodia Laos here's easy chart as an overall reference for choosing the Best Time for your travel in Southeast Asia. As you can see from the chart November to April can be the best time to visit the 3 countries.
| Season | Weather | Travel Cost | Crowds | Festivals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | Dry & Cool | Highest | Largest | Less Common |
| Shoulder (Mar-Apr) | Warm & Mostly Dry (Possible heat & occasional rain showers) | Lower | Moderate | Possible (New Year) |
| Shoulder (Sep-Oct) | Warm & Some Rain Showers (Lower chance of rain compared to May-Aug) | Lowest | Smaller | Possible Local Festivals |
| Wet (May-Aug) | Hot, Rainy & Humid | Lowest | Smallest | No Major Festivals |
Considering the diverse landscapes, climate features, and unique experience available in each country, nuances could be lost in trying to determine a single perfect Best Time to Visit Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in one attempt.
Rest assured, this article will provide a detailed breakdown in the following sections so you can find your own best time to travel accordingly. Alternatively, you can simply Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for insights and inspiration to visit Vietnam Cambodia Laos on a wonderful tour!
Best Time to Visit Vietnam Cambodia and Laos for Best Weather: Dec to Feb
December to February is generally the Best of Best Time to visit Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, also the Best Time to Travel in Southeast Asia for the best weather.
| Location | Dec (Avg) | Jan (Avg) | Feb (Avg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnam (South) | High: 29°C (84°F), Low: 20°C (68°F), Rain: 6 cm (2.4 in) | High: 28°C (82°F), Low: 23°C (73°F), Rain: 3 cm (1.2 in) | High: 35°C (95°F), Low: 24°C (75°F), Rain: 1.2 cm (0.47 in) |
| Vietnam (North) | High: 20°C (68°F), Low: 10°C (50°F), Rain: 5 cm (2.0 in) | High: 20°C (68°F), Low: 15°C (59°F), Rain: 4 cm (1.57 in) | High: 20°C (68°F), Low: 15°C (59°F), Rain: 3.7 cm (1.46 in) |
| Cambodia | High: 30°C (86°F), Low: 20°C (68°F), Rain: 3 cm (1.2 in) | High: 31°C (87.8°F), Low: 21°C (69.8°F), Rain: 2 cm (0.8 in) | High: 32°C (89.6°F), Low: 22°C (71.6°F), Rain: 2 cm (0.79 in) |
| Laos | High: 25°C (77°F), Low: 15°C (59°F), Rain: 1 cm (0.4 in) | High: 25°C (77°F), Low: 15°C (59°F), Rain: 1 cm (0.4 in) | High: 29°C (84.2°F), Low: 14°C (57.2°F), Rain: 1.6 cm (0.63 in) |
Please note: These are average temperatures and rainfall, actual conditions may vary. Always check the forecast before planning your trip. Enjoy your travels!
You may have noticed that there is no mention of Central Vietnam in the chart. Vietnam's elongated north-south geography leads to varying weather conditions throughout the country. The best time to visit Central Vietnam, including Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang, generally falls between February and August, which is different from most regions in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.
However, since there are exceptional islands and beaches in other destinations such as beautiful Thailand Islands or Southern Vietnam, and plenty of weather-independent activities in Central Vietnam, our travel experts at Asia Odyssey Travel recommend excluding Central Vietnam when determining the Best time to visit Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos for best weather. Because central Vietnam is a year-round destiantion. Check Best Time to Visit Northern Vietnam.
Why Dec to Feb is the Best Time to Visit Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia?
The Best Time to Visit Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos for the best weather is from December to February.
December to February shines for perfect weather in Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Expect sunshine and cool, comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring temples, beaches, and bustling cities. It's the dry season, minimizing rain disruptions for outdoor activities.
While this coincides with peak tourist season, meaning higher travel costs and larger crowds, the weather trade-off for sightseeing is undeniable. You might miss some major festivals like New Year celebrations, but the overall comfort and sunshine make it a fantastic time to visit.
It's important to note that this period coincides with the peak season in most Southeast Asia travel destinations. Therefore, if you are planning a long vacation in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos in this time of the year, we recommend booking in advance and securing your trip with Asia Odyssey Travel experts for a smooth and stress-free experience. Contact us now.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam Cambodia and Laos for Balanced Travel: Mar to Apr
March to April can be the Most Balanced Time to Visit Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos considering both the weather, experience and travel costs. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant across these countries, and it's not the peak tourist season, which might result in lower-cost flights and accommodations.
| Location | Mar (Avg) | Apr (Avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Vietnam (South) | High: 33°C (91°F), Low: 23°C (73°F), Rain: 6.5 cm (2.56 in) | High: 35°C (95°F), Low: 24°C (75°F), Rain: 10.2 cm (4.02 in) |
| Vietnam (North) | High: 26°C (79°F), Low: 20°C (68°F), Rain: 6.5 cm (2.56 in) | High: 29°C (84°F), Low: 23°C (73°F), Rain: 10.2 cm (4.02 in) |
| Cambodia | High: 34°C (93°F), Low: 23°C (73°F), Rain: 3 cm (1.2 in) | High: 35°C (95°F), Low: 24°C (75°F), Rain: 9.1 cm (3.6 in) |
| Laos | High: 33°C (91°F), Low: 22°C (72°F), Rain: 4.1 cm (1.6 in) | High: 34°C (93°F), Low: 23°C (73°F), Rain: 9.1 cm (3.6 in) |
Please note that these are average temperatures and rainfall, actual conditions may vary. Always check the forecast before planning your trip.
Why Choose March & April as the Best Time for Balanced Travel in Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia?
March & April is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia weather wise and travel cost wise offering a travel sweet spot.
You'll enjoy warm, mostly dry weather ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventure just before the rainy hot season begins in May for most regions. While not peak season, prices for flights and other spending would start to drop after the peak season from December to February, making it more affordable.
Plus, you might catch some cultural celebrations like Khmer New Year in Cambodia and Lao New Year in Laos, adding a festive touch! Read on to find out more details on exciting festivals in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
When to Visit Vietnam Cambodia and Laos for Festival Immersion: April!
If you are looking for the best time to visit Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam for cultural immersion and to experience the best festivals, the most ideal time would likely be April, with November also deserving an honorable mention.
| Country | Festival Name | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | Tết Nguyên Đán (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) | Late January or Early February |
| Huế Festival | April (for two weeks) | |
| Mid-Autumn Festival | 15th day of the 8th lunar month (usually mid-September) | |
| Cambodia | Chol Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year) | Mid-April (over three days) |
| Pchum Ben (Festival of the Dead) | September or October (lasting for 15 days) | |
| Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) | Full moon of the Buddhist calendar month of Pouthy (usually falls in November) | |
| Laos | Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) | Mid-April (over three days) |
| That Luang Festival | November (over a week, culminating on the full moon of the 12th lunar month) | |
| Haw Pha Bang | Mid-July (for a week) |
Why April is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia for Festivals?
Visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos in April will give you the opportunity to experience some of their most significant festivals as all three countries celebrate their New Year festivities during this time. So April can be the best time to visit Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam for festivals.
Here's what you can expect:
Visit Vietnam in April: The Huế Festival, a cultural extravaganza showcasing Vietnamese traditions, art, music, and imperial performances, is held annually in April. However, the most important festival in Vietnam, Tết Nguyên Đán or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, usually falls in late January or early February.
Visit Cambodia in April: The Khmer New Year, also known as Choul Chnam Thmey, is the biggest and most important festival in Cambodia. It celebrates the beginning of the year according to the Khmer calendar, typically falling in mid-April over three days.
Visit Laos in April: Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) is renowned for its exuberant water throwing tradition. It involves people joyfully dousing each other with water, symbolizing the cleansing of misfortune and the arrival of a new beginning. If you decide to join in, be prepared to get wet! Additionally, you will have the opportunity to witness temple ceremonies and engaging in merit-making activities.
In terms of weather in these countries April would be the beginning for hot and rainy season for most regions, so the heat would be still manageable for outdoor celebrations.
While April offers New Year festivities, November is also a good time for festivals in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. You'll experience cooler weather and unique celebrations like That Luang Festival in Laos, a major pilgrimage with processions and cultural performances.
How to Plan Your Tour to Visit Vietnam, Laos & Beyond
Vietnam (7-13 days): Begin in Hanoi, known for its French colonial architecture and lively markets. Don't miss Ha Long Bay's impressive limestone cliffs and green waters. Visit Hoi An to see the historic lanterns and custom clothing shops. If you have extra time, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-see for its history and dynamic vibe.
Laos (3-5 days): Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO site with beautiful temples and monks. Kuang Si Falls offers lovely swimming spots. For the adventurous, Vang Vieng has breathtaking landscapes and activities.
Thailand (5-10 days): Dive into Bangkok's rich culture, grand palaces, and temples. Ayutthaya's history is fascinating, and learning to cook Thai food is fun. Choose between Pattaya beaches or Phuket's for exciting nightlife.
Cambodia (3-5 days): Be amazed by Angkor Wat, a UNESCO site and architectural wonder. Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and the Khmer Rouge history are compelling. For relaxation, head to Sihanoukville's beaches or Kep for seafood and tranquility.
Consider the suggested itinerary for each country freestanding modular to craft your own journey in Southeast Asia or talk to our travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel to plan your own tour from Vietnam to Laos and beyond!
Vietnam, Laos in One Go with Asia Odyssey Travel
It's all about timing when travel in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos!
Whether you crave sunshine and temple exploration (December to February), want to immerse yourself in vibrant New Year festivities (April & November) in Vietnam and Laos, or prefer budget-friendly travel during September-October, there's something for everyone.
Cambodia's awe-inspiring temples shine during the dry season (November to April), while the lush landscapes and wildlife encounters of May to August are captivating. In Laos, tranquil beauty awaits from November to February, and cultural immersion during Lao New Year (April) is a must. From Vietnam, Cambodia to Laos, the journey is never dull! It is always a good time to travel!
Always a Best Time for a Tour with Asia Odyssey Travel!
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