When to Visit Cambodia
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Dry Season - Cool (Nov-Feb)
Dry Season - Hot (Mar-May)
Wet Season - Early (May-Aug)
Wet Season - Peak (Sep-Oct)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January sits right in the sweet spot of Cambodia's dry season, offering consistently pleasant weather with minimal rainfall and comfortable humidity levels. It's peak tourist season for good reason, with clear blue skies and temperatures that are warm but not oppressive. You'll find Angkor Wat and other major sites fairly crowded, but the reliable weather makes it worth dealing with the tourist buses.
February
February continues the dry season pattern, though temperatures start climbing as the month progresses. The humidity remains relatively low by Cambodian standards, making it one of the most comfortable months for extended outdoor exploration. It's still peak season, so expect higher prices and advance bookings at popular hotels and guesthouses.
March
March marks the beginning of the hot season, with temperatures noticeably climbing and the air feeling heavier as humidity increases. Rain is still rare, but the heat can be intense, particularly in lowland areas and around the temples during midday. Tourist numbers start tapering off toward the end of the month as the weather becomes less forgiving.
April
April is typically the hottest month of the year, with temperatures that can feel oppressive, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You might catch the occasional pre-monsoon shower, which brings temporary relief but also increases humidity. It's low season for international tourists, though Khmer New Year in mid-April brings domestic travel to a peak.
May
May signals the transition to wet season, with the southwest monsoon typically arriving and bringing welcome relief from April's heat. Afternoon thunderstorms become common, though mornings are often clear and pleasant for sightseeing. Prices drop noticeably, and the countryside starts turning vibrant green as the rains revive the landscape.
June
June settles into the wet season rhythm, with regular afternoon downpours that are usually predictable enough to plan around. Mornings tend to be sunny, making it actually a decent time for temple visits if you start early. The humidity is high, but temperatures are slightly lower than the scorching April-May period.
July
July continues the wet season pattern with consistent rainfall, though it's rarely the all-day type that completely disrupts travel plans. The countryside is at its most lush and photogenic, and tourist sites are wonderfully uncrowded. Just be prepared for muddy conditions in rural areas and occasional flooding in low-lying regions.
August
August maintains heavy rainfall patterns, with afternoon storms that can be quite dramatic but usually pass within a few hours. The Tonle Sap Lake is swelling, and the surrounding flooded forests become accessible for unique boat tours. It's one of the quietest months for tourism, meaning excellent deals but also some seasonal closures at beach destinations.
September
September typically sees the wettest conditions of the year, with heavy rainfall that can occasionally cause flooding in Phnom Penh and rural areas. That said, it's not constant rain—you'll still get sunny spells, particularly in the mornings. Some remote areas might become difficult to access, but main tourist routes generally remain open.
October
October continues the wet pattern into its first half, though rainfall typically starts decreasing toward month's end as the monsoon begins retreating. The landscape is incredibly green, and the moats around Angkor Wat are full and reflective. It's still low season, but conditions are generally improving for travel compared to August and September.
November
November marks the transition to dry season and is arguably one of the best months to visit Cambodia. The rains taper off, humidity drops to more comfortable levels, and the countryside remains lush from the wet season. Tourist numbers are increasing but haven't yet reached peak season crowds, and the cooler temperatures make temple exploration much more pleasant.
December
December brings prime tourist season weather, with dry, sunny days and the coolest temperatures of the year. It's particularly pleasant for outdoor activities, with low humidity and comfortable evenings that might even require a light layer. Expect higher prices and advance bookings at popular destinations, especially around the Christmas and New Year period.