Located in Southeast Asia, Cambodia has a monsoon climate with dry and rainy seasons. The weather in Cambodia in April is extremely hot and dry. April falls in the shoulder season, but the temperatures are increasingly hot. It's an excellent time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, as crowds are thinner at some of the most popular destinations, particularly the incredible Angkor Wat. Because of the heat, it is best to go sightseeing during the cooler mornings or late afternoons.
Cambodia is a tropical oasis with a wet and a dry season, each divided into cooler and hotter periods. April marks the beginning of the dry season’s hot period, with the average temperatures being slightly higher than earlier in the year. This period is when humidity begins to increase while rainfall remains relatively low.
Considering the weather in Cambodia in April, the country witnesses average temperatures of 35°C (95F), with the possibility of rising to 40°C (104F). The chances of rain remain low, though you can expect the occasional shower near the end of the month. The average rainfall observed in Cambodia in April is 78mm (3 inches).
Visit Cambodia in April and head for the mountains or beaches to escape the heat.
Rough Guide's Tip: A trip to Cambodia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to get the best out of your trip? Connect with our travel experts.
Bayon temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia © Shutterstock
Marking the transition from the dry to the wet season, April is placed on the cusp of the shoulder season. It's a period of delicate balance before the onset of increased rainfall. April offers a serene environment with fewer tourists and advantages in pricing for accommodations and activities.
Check on the weather in Cambodia in April before planning your trip. The temperatures in the coastal region reach highs of 32°C (90F) and lows of 26°C (79F). Going further north, in Siem Reap, the average temperature ranges from 31°C (88F) to highs reaching 35°C (95). The possibility exists that temperatures can go as high as 40°C (104F). If this happens, seek shade whenever possible and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Very hot, dry weather is the norm throughout the country, resulting in ideal travel conditions. Rain is unlikely to fall for many months, leaving the terrain dusty with little vegetation. The weather in Cambodia in April ensures an enjoyable travelling experience for tourists who enjoy hot weather.
Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia © Shutterstock
If you enjoy the sun, this is the best time of year to plan a few days of relaxation. Head on to the south coast beaches of Sihanoukville, Kep, or the smaller islands of Koh Rong and Kong Rong Samloem. As we get deeper into April, the occasional tropical storm may bring some refreshing rain to the parched land, but these will be fleeting at this time of year.
You can surely expect occasional rain showers to interrupt your outdoor activities, but the lush landscapes and reduced tourist density provide a unique charm to the visit. Travellers willing to embrace the transition to the wet season can enjoy the beauty of Cambodia's tropical splendour during this time.
For more info about the weather, check out our article about the best time to visit Cambodia.
Fishing boats off the coast of Sihanoukville © Shutterstock
Tourist numbers are lower than during the peak of the dry season due to the weather in Cambodia in April. The reduced crowd density allows for a more relaxed atmosphere at popular attractions. The rising heat means fewer tourists, which is great news if you want to see the country's highlights without large crowds.
With the country entering the wet season, some accommodations and services may offer competitive pricing.
To avoid crowds, consider visiting Cambodia during the shoulder season. Alternatively, exploring Cambodia in the low season can bring cost advantages, but be prepared for occasional heavy rainfall.
The Khmer New Year is celebrated between the 13th and 17th of April. This is the period when the country comes to a halt. Government offices, markets, and certain tourist attractions close for the holiday and many Cambodians return to their hometowns.
Cambodia's entire population floods the streets and soaks each other with water!
Plan ahead of time if you need to travel long distances. Most of Phnom Penh's major attractions, museums, and restaurants will be closed for Khmer New Year. Book lodging ahead of time wherever you intend to visit during this festival.
The Royal Palace, Phnom Penh ©Shutterstock
Depending on the weather in Cambodia in April, make your journey a dream come true by choosing one of our tailor-made trip services. We make planning hassle-free by offering itineraries prepared by local travel experts. We can tailor them to your specific requirements if you wish to personalise them.
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written by
Ties Lagraauw
updated 21.03.2024
