Best time to visit Cambodia

The best time to visit Cambodia spans from November to April. This period promises minimal rainfall and clear, blue skies, perfect for basking in the tranquillity of Cambodia's southern coast. However, it’s good to know that there is really no wrong time to visit. Cambodia is warm all year, but it has a monsoon climate that creates two distinct seasons, rainy and dry. However, the dry period is split into two, hot and cool. Although the temperature is hot all year round.

Highlights weather in Cambodia

• Best time to visit: November to early April marks the dry season, featuring cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring. Temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C).
• Consider the Crowds: Peak season means more tourists but also vibrant city life and full services. Off-peak seasons offer a quieter, more intimate experience with nature and local life. 
• Rainy season: The rainy season (May to October) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, suitable for those looking for serene beauty and better deals on travel.

When's the best time to visit Cambodia

The best time to visit Cambodia is from November to April. Temperatures in this period typically range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). This season offers dry weather and clear skies, ideal for exploring the southern coast and other attractions.

The weather is hot all year round, but peaks in March and May when temperatures can reach around 32°C and above. In December and January, the weather is dry, but the temperatures are slightly cooler - it’s usually expected to be approximately 77°F - 86°F (25°C - 30°C) at this time of year.

The cooler part of the season between November and February is the peak time for tourism. Mild enough to explore temples in comfort but warm enough to sunbathe by the coast.

If your trip planning guide to Cambodia includes travel between May and October, expect humidity and heavy rainfall, as this period brings 75% of the country’s annual precipitation.

Best month to visit Cambodia

Are you looking for the best month to visit Cambodia? Here’s our month by month guide. It will give you a good idea of the climate and how this might affect your travel plans.

January: Best for temples, markets, and museums visits

January, typically the coldest month in Cambodia, still boasts warm temperatures of 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). The slight dip in temperature makes it more comfortable to explore cities like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Battambang. The reduced humidity facilitates easier visits to temples, markets, and museums. Since this is among the best times to visit Cambodia, expect more crowded conditions. Early reservation for accommodation is advised due to the high demand.

February: Best for jungle adventure

February's slightly lower temperatures still make for comfortable travel conditions across the country. Whether you're looking to explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, or lush jungles, this time provides an excellent backdrop for your adventures. Accommodation prices remain high, and popular sites can be crowded, so advance reservation is recommended.

Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February vacation.

March: Best for Angkor Wat exploration

The temperatures increase between March and May. In March, the heat begins to intensify across Cambodia, with temperatures climbing over 86°F (30°C) in some areas. This month marks the beginning of the warmer season, transitioning away from the cooler, more comfortable weather of the preceding months. Despite the rising temperatures, March still offers a relatively moderate climate compared to the peak heat of April and May. If you want to visit the Temples of Angkor, explore the colorful markets or trek in the jungle, it can be the best time to do so.

Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best vacation destinations in March.

April: Best for festive atmosphere

In April, temperatures in Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat can be as high as mid 30 to 40°C. The rainy season is starting, but there is a moderate rainfall compared to the extremely wet months of September and October. Kep and Kampot are popular at this time of year.

The Khmer New Year spans across three days in mid-April. In the capital Phnom Penh, most major attractions, museums and restaurants close during the celebration as Cambodians return to provinces to celebrate with family. Siem Reap usually has events taking place too. In the countryside, families celebrate as they reunite. It’s one of the busiest celebrations of the year, so you’ll need to book accommodation early.

Looking for more options for your vacation in April? Find the perfect vacation destination with our top suggestions.

May: Best for lazy days on the beach

You can be sure of sunshine and heat in the southern islands, which is perfect for lazy days on the beach and water activities. The temperature is cooler on the coast. Angkor Wat in May can be unbearably hot for some visitors. Avoid visiting unless you can handle humidity. March can be a little cooler and can be a good compromise if you are looking for the best time to visit Cambodia.

Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best vacation destinations in May.

June: Best for partying all night long

June to August is the rainy season, and although you can expect a downpour, temperatures are approximately 30°C or more, and very humid. Sihanoukville is also the entry point to the islands of Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem and Koh Ta Kiev. Tranquil Koh Ta Tiev remains peaceful undiscovered territory although there are some more lively beaches like Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity beach where you can party from sunset to sundown.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best destinations for vacations in June.

July: Best for a unique experience in a green tropical paradise

Cambodia can be less popular during the summer (July and August), which is officially when the rainy season is in full swing. The rainy season can still be the best time of year to visit Cambodia. July is also known as the “green season” as the countryside is flourishing. During rainy season Cambodia is in full bloom, and it’s a great chance to see the landscape as a lush green oasis.

Looking for even more ideas for your summer adventure? Explore our list of the best vacation destinations for July.

August: Best for a vacation with fewer crowds

The amount of rainfall per day starts to increase towards August. It can rain every day in the wet season in Cambodia, but generally, there won’t be a downpour that lasts all day, although that can happen.

Still haven't decided where you're going this summer? Explore our list of the best August vacation destinations.

September: Best for exploring the country from a different angle

During September, the country transforms into a waterlogged expanse of tropical green under the daily deluge of rainfall. It’s a fascinating time to see the country, although dirt roads can turn into mud and flooding is commonplace.

October: Best for exploring the high water levels of Tonle Sap Lake

Although the rainfall can present practical challenges, it can be a beautiful time of year to see the stunning scenery of Cambodia. October can be a great time to visit the floating markets of the Tonle Sap, and Angkor Wat is quieter than in December and January.

Looking for more options for an fall vacation? Also check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable vacation in October.

November: Best for observing local traditions and celebrations

In November, the temperatures are cooler, and there is less rain. It marks the end of monsoon season, and this becomes a popular time to visit for many tourists. It is also the month the Cambodian Water Festival is celebrated. This festival celebrates the reversal of the Tonle Sap River into the Mekong River. In early November, the Bonn Om Toeuk Water festival has traditionally been celebrated in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. You can watch the colorful boat races take place on the Mekong. Most towns and villages seek to participate by building boats that can hold up to 100 people

December: Best for a vacation in the midst of a vibrant atmosphere

December in Cambodia is a preferred month for many tourists due to cooler temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). It's an excellent time to visit iconic sites like the Temples of Angkor, colorful markets, and embark on jungle treks. This month also offers the best conditions for visiting lakes, rivers, and the Tonle Sap floating villages, still full from the rainy season. Remember, it's peak travel season, so reservation accommodation early is crucial, especially for a Christmas stay. Prepare for crowds, particularly at major tourist spots like Angkor Wat.

When is the rainy season in Cambodia?

The southwesterly monsoon from May to October brings the rainy season, humidity and strong winds. The northeasterly monsoon brings the sunshine. From November to April, Cambodia is still hot with average temperatures rising to around 89°F (32°C).

It doesn’t rain all day during the rainy season, so it’s possible to visit some of the highlights of Cambodia while avoiding the crowds. Summer can be the best time for families to travel to Cambodia if they need to coincide with school vacation dates. Everything is quieter wherever you choose to visit.

Flooding can be a problem on the roads in Cambodia during the summer, and although you can travel anywhere, it may take a lot longer. Mud can cause road closures, especially in the countryside.

In September and October, the rain can be more substantial and more consistent. It’s naturally much quieter, making this the best time to visit Cambodia for some. Traveling by road can be impacted during the rainy season as flooding is a possibility.

During the rainy season in Cambodia, as it doesn’t rain all day, it can be a good time for sightseeing. It is one of the quietest times to visit major landmarks like Angkor Wat and the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. There will be fewer crowds and the countryside is appealingly green and lush. Some travel plans may be affected if traveling between the cities Phnom Penh, Battambang and Siem Reap, or if traveling to other villages as flooding can occur.

When is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?

Millions of visitors head to Angkor Wat every year, and it can often get crowded, particularly between December and February. It is cooler at this time of year, but nothing can prepare you for the crowds. In the dry season, even if you get up very early before sunrise, you will experience crowds. The best times to visit are early morning and late afternoon if you want to avoid the sweltering hot weather at midday.

In March to May, it can get hotter, and the weather is usually dry and bright. For some, walking around Angkor Wat in the heat could be unbearable. Angkor Wat covers a large area, and you need to be prepared to travel around to see it fully.

During the rainy season in June to October, the whole of Angkor Wat will be quieter, so it is the right time to avoid the crowds. It’s most likely to rain in the afternoon, so it’s better to visit in the morning. Rainfall won’t impact the entire day, but mud roads or flooding may affect your journey to Angkor Wat. It may just take longer to reach your destination. The rainy season also brings intense humidity, so you need to be comfortable with heat if you choose to go at this time of year.

Start planning your trip to Cambodia today with our local experts and carefully planned Cambodia itineraries. Also, to better prepare for your trip you can read our travel tips for visiting Cambodia.