Nestled in the coastal line of the Indochina peninsula, Vietnam and Cambodia experience pretty similar weather patterns throughout the year. As a result, there is a perfect period to combine these two nations in one expedition. It is in December.

In today’s blog, Travel Sense Asia will draw the climate diagram of Vietnam and Cambodia during December and show you why it is the best time for a package to both of these countries.

Striking Features Of Vietnam And Cambodia Weather During December

Stretching up to 15 degrees of latitude, Vietnam has quite different weather among the three regions. However, December is when the whole country enters the dry period with low rainfall almost everywhere.

While Northern Vietnam welcomes strong and cold breezes of the winter with an average temperature of fewer than 20 degrees Celsius, the South of Vietnam enjoys a temperate temperature of around 27 degrees Celsius.

In the middle of the country, the weather conditions are comfortable. The average temperature is always below 25 degrees. December also marks the end of the typhoon season in Vietnam, which is an ideal time to explore the ultimate beauty of the beaches on the S-shaped land.

Cambodia follows an identical weather pattern to the southern Vietnam in December. It’s time for the dry season in this country. The northeast monsoon arrival helps to reduce the humidity from more than 90% to around 50 to 60%.

Still, thanks to the lower rainfall, the average temperature in Cambodia doesn’t drop very much. It hovers around 30 degrees, which is an absolutely beautiful number to enjoy either a beach holiday or a day tour around Angkor Wat. 

Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia in December 

Nice Weather Everywhere

As mentioned above, the weather in most parts of Indochina is quite pleasant in December. It is dry but not too hot, so visitors can immerse themselves in exciting outdoor activities as well as admiring the magnificent landscape. If you are a beach lover, December is the best time to lie down on the white sand beaches in both South Vietnam and Cambodia.

Swimming, kayaking or snorkeling are also suitable as there is little to no rain during this time of the year.

Long Public Holidays In Many Countries

During December, we have the biggest holiday of Christmas in western countries. Combined with the New Year Holiday, it will be the longest vacation in a year. Therefore, this is the time to let the moths out of your wallet and travel to the far east world like in Vietnam and Cambodia. 

The Christmas Vibe Of The Asian

Although both Vietnam and Cambodia are mainly influenced by Buddhism, Christmas is becoming more and more popular in these countries. On this occasion, Christmas songs are played in every corner, from the street vendors to large shopping malls. In the main squares, the festive atmosphere is more apparent with huge decorations and light exhibitions at night. On Christmas Eve, the young citizens often go to the church and organize colorful activities such as dance performance.

Recommended Destinations For A Trip To Vietnam And Cambodia In December

In Vietnam

Hanoi

December is the time when Hanoi experience some of the coldest monsoon arrivals. The days can be gloomy, but it is the best time to wander around the narrow streets of the Old Quarters and enjoying hot dishes such as Pho, Bun, Rib Porridge, Sticky Rice…

If you visit the Hanoi Cathedral at Christmas, it is a great chance to admire the splendid beauty with the bright lights, giant Christmas trees. The young people also gathers at the church to sing along the Christmas songs. The festival vibe can be seen in every corner.

Halong

Traveling to Halong during December, you will no longer have to worry about the rain or storm interrupting your journey. The sky in Ha Long in December is pretty clear. The gentle ocean breezes help you experience activities on the bay to the utmost.

Sapa

December is the beginning of winter in Sapa. The fogs lay over the valley, the temperature sometimes drops below 0 degrees Celsius. Snow covers the hills and the roofs of the stilt houses in the hill tribe villages, creating a fairy-like mountain town. 

Danang

Danang can experience some intermittent rain during December. But it won’t cause much trouble for your vacation because the weather is super refreshing. The average temperature remains at 24 to 25 degrees Celsius with not many tourists as it is the high season. So, you can enjoy your visits without crowded.

Ho Chi Minh

It will be the start of the dry season in Ho Chi Minh from December. So, outdoor activities in this city like exploring the bustling central streets, experiencing the exciting and adventurous games at the outdoor amusement parks have perfect timing. At Christmas time, Ho Chi Minh City will have magical decorations with enormous Christmas trees and a lot of light exhibitions.

In Cambodia

Phnom Penh

Located in the middle of country, Phnom Penh is the capital, as well as the biggest city, where gathers both ancient and modern sights in Cambodia. It will be a great experience to merge yourself into several cultural and historical highlights in the center of the city including Royal Palace, The National Museum or The Killing Fields.

Siem Reap

Heading to Siem Reap, you will be bewitched with picturesque natural landscapes and charming long-standing temples. Angkor Temple Ruins emerge as the largest religious complex to still exist. Here you will feel excited to discover outstanding temples such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm…

Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and of great importance to Cambodia. The lake expands and narrows significantly with the seasons. From November to May, during the dry season in Cambodia, Tonle Sap flows pour into the Mekong River in Phnom Penh. It is home to many ethnic minorities and the Cham, living in floating villages around the lake.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a port city and beach resort located on the Gulf of Thailand. The big attraction here is that white sand beaches and some tropical islands are still out of the radar of massive tourism. Koh Rong Island is about 2 km from the town of Sihanoukville. The seawater here is so clear that you can see the colorful fish swimming at the bottom.