Weather in Cambodia in December

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.

Cambodia in December at a Glance

December is one of the best times to visit Cambodia, with dry weather, cooler temperatures, and blue skies across most of the country. The monsoon rains are long gone, leaving behind green countryside, manageable heat, and comfortable travel conditions.

• Daytime temperatures in December average between 77°F and 86°F (25°C to 30°C), with cooler mornings and evenings, especially in places like Siem Reap and Mondulkiri. Humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal.
• This is peak season, so expect more visitors at major sites like Angkor Wat, especially around Christmas and New Year. Early mornings and weekdays are your best bet for avoiding the largest crowds.
• Popular activities in December include temple-hopping in Angkor, river cruises along the Mekong, and beach time in Kep or Koh Rong. The dry, sunny weather also makes December perfect for cycling tours, trekking, and open-air festivals across the country.

What is the weather like in Cambodia in December?

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, December is one of the best months to go. The dry season is in full swing, bringing warm, sunny days and little to no rain, ideal for temple visits, cycling, beach escapes, and everything in between.

This is also the best time to visit Cambodia for comfortable travel. Expect daytime temperatures between 77°F and 86°F (25°C to 30°C), low humidity, and around eight hours of sunshine a day. Rainfall is minimal, averaging just 17mm for the month.

Northern areas like Siem Reap feel cooler with gentle breezes, perfect for exploring Angkor Wat and countryside villages. The south, including Koh Rong and Sihanoukville, is slightly warmer and ideal for beach time and water sports.

It’s peak tourist season, so book your hotels and transport early. Despite higher demand, Cambodia remains budget-friendly and offers plenty of ways to experience its culture, history, and natural beauty.

Temperatures in Cambodia in December

The weather in Cambodia in December is characterized by average high temperatures of around 86°F (30°C) and average low temperatures of around 71°F (22°C), 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.

Is December a good time to visit Cambodia?

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.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Perfect weather for travel: December marks the heart of the dry season, with clear skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures across the country, ideal for temple visits, cycling, and beach escapes.
• Great beach conditions: Southern coastal areas like Kep, Kampot, and the islands (Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem) are sunny and calm, with excellent conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips.
• Festive but not overwhelming: While it’s the start of the high season, December in Cambodia still feels relaxed. The major crowds arrive later, so you get the perks of great weather without the full vacation rush.

What about crowds and costs?

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 reservation 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.

Where to Go in Cambodia in December

December is dry, sunny, and one of the best times to visit Cambodia. With comfortable weather and lush scenery left over from the monsoon, it’s the perfect month to explore both cultural highlights and off-the-radar gems.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Cambodia this time of year:

Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

The cooler mornings and blue skies make temple-hopping much more pleasant in December. Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise, then explore Ta Prohm and Bayon before the heat builds. Go early or late in the day to avoid the biggest crowds.

Kampot and Kep

Down south, Kampot’s riverside setting and Kep’s quiet beaches are ideal for slower travel. The dry weather is perfect for motorbiking through the countryside, visiting pepper farms, or taking a sunset cruise on the Kampot River.

Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem

If you're craving island time, December delivers. These islands are warm, dry, and peaceful before the peak vacation rush. Expect calm seas, clear water, and plenty of space to relax.

What to do in Cambodia in December

With clear skies, warm temperatures, and dry roads, December opens up countless things to do in Cambodia: from ancient temples and river cruises to beach escapes and cultural celebrations. It’s one of the best times of year to explore the country’s diversity, especially if you prefer sunshine over sweat.

Bon Om Touk (Water Festival): Late November to early December

If the timing’s right, you might catch the tail end of Cambodia’s Water Festival in smaller towns. While the main event in Phnom Penh wraps up in November, riverside villages may still hold local boat races and celebrations into early December. It’s a fun, energetic window into Cambodian traditions.

Snorkeling and island-hopping

The southern coast, especially around Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, is at its best in December. Calm seas and clear skies mean excellent snorkeling, longboat trips, and lazy beach days, without the high-season crowds.

Explore Angkor by bike

With cooler mornings and less humidity, cycling between Angkor’s temples is a great way to cover more ground while avoiding tour buses. Early December sees fewer crowds than Christmas week, giving you more space to explore quietly.

Plan your trip with our Cambodia itineraries

Our Cambodia itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point, perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Cambodia itinerary 7 days: A week in Cambodia lets you explore the highlights: spend a few days in Siem Reap discovering Angkor Wat and nearby temples, then head to Phnom Penh to learn about the country’s history and vibrant culture.
• Cambodia itinerary 10 days: With ten days, you can dive deeper by adding a visit to Kampot’s riverside charm and Kep’s coastal seafood scene, along with Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
• Cambodia itinerary 14 days: Two weeks gives you time to experience Cambodia in full, from the temples of Angkor and Phnom Penh’s history to the peaceful beaches of Koh Rong and the rural landscapes around Battambang.