Things to Do in Cambodia in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Cambodia
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season with only 15mm (0.6 inches) of rainfall - perfect for temple exploration and countryside cycling without mud or flooding
- Comfortable humidity at 65% (lowest of the year) makes walking Angkor's 3km (1.9 mile) Grand Circuit actually pleasant by 10am
- Cool season winds from northeast create ideal conditions for Mekong boat trips and Mondulkiri elephant sanctuaries at 1,000m (3,280 ft) elevation
- Chinese New Year celebrations in Phnom Penh's Chinatown (late January/early February) bring spectacular lion dances and street food festivals locals actually attend
Considerations
- Peak tourist season means Angkor Wat sunrise viewing platforms packed with 400+ people by 5:30am and accommodation prices 40-60% higher than May-October
- Extreme UV index of 10 requires constant sun protection - many tourists underestimate intensity at 13°N latitude and get severe burns by day two
- Dust clouds from dry roads make rural areas like Battambang uncomfortable for sensitive travelers, especially on red dirt roads to Banan Temple
Best Activities in February
Angkor Archaeological Complex Temple Tours
February's dry conditions mean no flooding around Ta Prohm's root systems and clear access to remote temples like Beng Mealea. Early morning temperatures of 21°C (70°F) make the 5:30am sunrise crowds at Angkor Wat bearable. Midday temple interiors stay naturally cool while exterior stones become too hot to touch after 11am.
Mekong River Dolphin Watching Expeditions
February's low water levels concentrate Irrawaddy dolphins in deeper pools near Kratie, increasing sighting chances to 85%. Northeast winds create calm water perfect for small boat navigation. Water temperature stays comfortable for occasional swimming stops at sandbar beaches that only appear during dry season.
Countryside Cycling Adventures
Dry roads and cool mornings make February perfect for cycling between rural villages around Battambang and Siem Reap. Rice fields show bright green new growth, and dust settles overnight for clean morning air. Local villages host traditional wedding season (December-March) offering authentic cultural encounters.
Mondulkiri Elephant Sanctuary Visits
February's cool, dry weather at 1,000m (3,280 ft) elevation creates ideal conditions for ethical elephant encounters. Clear skies offer spectacular views across forested valleys, and elephants are more active in cooler temperatures. Waterfalls run lower but create perfect swimming holes.
Phnom Penh Street Food Walking Tours
February's lower humidity makes walking Phnom Penh's street food districts comfortable until 10pm. Chinese New Year season brings special dishes like nian gao and reunion hot pot to local markets. Russian Market and Night Market operate peak hours with minimal rain interruption.
Coastal Island Hopping from Sihanoukville
February offers Cambodia's calmest seas with minimal wind and waves under 0.5m (1.6 ft). Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem show crystal clear visibility for snorkeling, and beach temperatures stay comfortable for all-day activities. Dry weather means reliable boat schedules.
February Events & Festivals
Chinese New Year Celebrations in Phnom Penh
Cambodia's ethnic Chinese community celebrates with elaborate lion dances, dragon parades through Chinatown near Wat Ounalom, and traditional family reunion dinners. Street vendors sell special New Year delicacies like sticky rice cakes and red-cooked pork. Fireworks displays happen at major pagodas.
Meak Bochea Religious Festival
One of Cambodia's most important Buddhist holidays commemorating Buddha's final sermon. Thousands gather at Angkor Wat and major pagodas for candlelit processions at sunset. Locals dress in white and bring lotus flowers and incense for merit-making ceremonies.