Travel advice for Cambodia
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Cambodia
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Cambodia's varied landscape of mountains, lowlands and coasts creates different weather conditions throughout its compact territory. Due to this geographical diversity, cooler weather is usually experienced in the elevated areas, while the busy plains have a warmer atmosphere. Now let's understand the specifics of the weather in Cambodia in December.
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Cambodia's dry season, which began in November, fully arrives in December, offering sunny and warm weather ideal for exploring and enjoying the country's diverse landscapes. This period is considered the high season, attracting many tourists due to the comfortable weather ideal for outdoor activities and cultural excursions.
The northern regions of Cambodia, known for their cool breezes and mild sunshine, provide pleasant conditions for visiting historical and natural attractions. In contrast, the slightly warmer southern regions are great for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, with destinations such as Koh Rong and Sihanoukville being popular.
December sees minimal rainfall, averaging around 17mm for the month, so most days are dry with around eight hours of sunshine. It's a great time to visit Cambodia's famous temples, cycle through the countryside, or relax on the beautiful beaches.
Given the peak season, it is advisable to book accommodation and travel arrangements well in advance. Despite the increased demand, Cambodia remains an affordable destination with a variety of options to suit different budgets. Overall, December is a great time to visit Cambodia, combining inviting dry weather with the vibrant energy of holiday celebrations and cultural festivals.
Rough Guide's Tip: A trip to Cambodia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so connect with our travel experts for the best trip experience.
The weather in Cambodia in December is characterized by average high temperatures of around 30°C (86°F) and average low temperatures of around 22°C (71°F), signifying the beginning of the cool and dry season. This weather is generally considered warm and pleasant, making it one of the best times to visit the country.
In northern regions, including places like Siem Reap and its surroundings, temperatures can be cool, especially in the evenings and early mornings, due to chilly winds. Conversely, in the southern regions, closer to the coast and equator, temperatures are slightly warmer, making it ideal for beach vacations.
This variation means that although it's warm during the day throughout the country, it's not too hot and the humidity is lower than in other months, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and temple visits.
Decided to book a December break? For further inspo, discover more of the best places to visit in December.
December is considered an excellent time to visit Cambodia as it falls during the dry season, which lasts from November to April. During this period, the weather is usually warm, dry, and sunny, which is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's famous sights and beautiful landscapes.
Cambodia's dry season means minimal rainfall, resulting in clear skies and reduced humidity, allowing you to explore the huge temple complexes of Angkor Wat, venture into the countryside, or relax on the southern beaches. December also marks the beginning of the peak tourist season, so despite the favorable weather conditions, at this time in Cambodia, there is an increased influx of tourists.
In general, the weather in Cambodia in December greatly enhances the travel experience, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the full range of activities and attractions that the country has to offer. However, given the popularity of this period, accommodation and tours should be booked in advance to get the best options.
Can't decide on the season to travel? Explore our Cambodia year-round weather guide. Also, to better prepare for your trip you can read our travel tips for visiting Cambodia.
December marks the start of Cambodia's high tourist season due to attractive dry weather and warm temperatures. As a consequence, the flow of tourists increases, especially around popular tourist sites.
The increase in the number of tourists leads to an increase in prices, especially for accommodation and tour services, as demand rises. Despite this, Cambodia remains an affordable destination even during peak periods, but it is worth booking accommodation and experiences in advance to ensure availability and possibly get the best prices.
If you prefer more seclusion and potentially lower prices, however, you may find it advantageous to visit during shoulder seasons, such as late October or April, despite the greater likelihood of rain and humidity. Although December offers optimal weather, visiting Cambodia in other months can also be an enjoyable experience, especially if you are prepared for variable conditions and can put up with more unpredictable weather.
Looking for budget travel ideas? Explore our detailed list of the most budget-friendly destinations around the world.
Cambodia has some colorful festivals in December, particularly the Sea Festival, which is celebrated in coastal areas such as Sihanoukville. Attracting locals and tourists alike, this annual event is filled with activities ranging from traditional Cambodian martial arts and beach volleyball to motorboat races and a half marathon. It is not only a sporting event, but also cultural performances and music, making it a comprehensive celebration of Cambodia's maritime heritage.
Since December also coincides with global holidays, you can enjoy Christmas events in major cities where hotels and establishments cater to international visitors.
Due to the popularity of these events, it is advisable to make hotel reservations well in advance and participate in the festivities. These events provide an unforgettable insight into Cambodia's festive spirit and hospitality.
Depending on the weather in Cambodia in December, make your dream trip a reality by selecting one of our tailor-made trips. We simplify planning by providing itineraries created by local travel experts.
While each month offers a unique Cambodia experience, the best time to visit depends on your travel preferences, whether it's exploring ancient temples, enjoying the beaches, or participating in cultural activities. Here's a quick overview of what to expect in Cambodia by month:
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Cambodia
written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 22.05.2024
Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.