There are a few factors to consider when deciding when to visit Cambodia, including heat, number of people attending, and the amount of expected rainfall. For those who prefer to ditch the crowds, you can get a deal on your whole trip and visit between May and October.
Cambodia Seasons
Cambodia is humid and generally warm throughout the year. It’s very rare that temperatures get below 68 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 degrees Celsius. Unlike other areas of the world, instead of summer, winter, spring, and fall, people refer to Cambodia seasons as wet and dry.
The wet season spans from early May to mid-October. There is usually a heavy afternoon rain, but a lot of sun. This combination makes for a very humid environment. Although the wet season doesn’t hinder travel plans, many people would rather spend the dry season traveling through Cambodia, especially if they’re not used to high humidity areas. The wet season is referred to as the “green season” by the locals, and it’s beautiful to see.
Traveling in the green or wet season is the best time to see the national museum of Cambodia and Angkor. But, for many people, the lack of air conditioning and high levels of humidity make travel more preferable in the dry season.
From November to March tourists see hot and dry days. The temperatures for the dry season range from about 68 degrees Fahrenheit to the high 80s. There usually isn’t much rainfall, but the roads are dusty, and winds can bring up allergies. If you’re looking to explore the wilderness, this is the time.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia
Although the country is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit Cambodia depends on what you want to do while you’re there. If you’re going to hike into the jungle, explore ruins, and visit towns along the river, you’ll be better off in the dry season. If you plan on spending a substantial amount of time outside, it’s important that you gauge the humidity against what you’re used to.
However, if you want to see Angkor and explore know the wilderness without stepping foot in it, you should travel during the wet season. The beauty of the country is at its peak in June and July, but humidity and rainfall are also at its highest. The temples in the jungle and the many walking tours aren’t comfortable in this heat or moisture. The best place to visit during the wet season is the beaches.
Cambodia’s beaches are mostly untouched except for a few resorts or hotels. The white sand and clear water are the perfect solutions for days that are too hot to do any sightseeing.
Making Your Travel Plans
Because Cambodia has a fairly regular weather pattern, it makes it a year-round travel destination. The two seasons favor both preferences and offer a lot of options to those who are new to traveling abroad. There are a few rules of thumb when it comes to making travel plans to Cambodia.
If you’re planning on trekking into the wild, stick to the dry season. If you plan on doing more looking at nature than anything else, the wet season is fine. But, avoid the beaches during monsoon season because they are constantly enamored with rain storms. From late May until early June you can expect the beaches to be empty, but almost impossible to enjoy.
Just make sure that you pack your bags for the weather. Travel within Cambodia is relatively easy, and many Cambodians encourage tourists to keep their travel plans loose so they can enjoy Cambodia without struggling against the weather. If it’s hot, then head to the beach, if it’s raining head into the city!