Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City Weather At A Glance

Ho Chi Minh City experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

Rainy season

The rainy season, also referred to as the monsoon season, typically spans from May to November, with average annual rainfall around 1,900mm (approximately 150 rainy days per year). Though intense rainfall occurs nearly every afternoon, these showers are usually brief. It is not uncommon to witness sunshine and rain simultaneously against a blue sky. It is advisable to carry a raincoat, especially if you are not accustomed to sudden tropical downpours. In October, extreme tides may result in serious flooding; thus, being prepared with waterproof boots and gear is essential.

Dry season

The dry season in Ho Chi Minh City lasts from December to April. This period is generally hotter than the rainy season, with average temperatures hovering around 33 °C and minimal rainfall. While exploring the city during these months may be more convenient, travelers should remain vigilant against heatstroke by avoiding outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours.

Best Time To Visit Ho Chi Minh City

The optimal time for visiting Ho Chi Minh City is between December and April when domestic tourism is low and rainfall is scarce. Temperature during this period is pleasant, ranging from 22°C to 34°C. If you plan to visit during this time, be sure to join the Tet festival (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), which generally takes place in late January or early February.

Monthly Averages

Ho Chi Minh City enjoys warm weather year-round, with an average humidity level of approximately 75% and an average temperature of 28°C. The year is distinctly categorized into a rainy and dry season. Below is a detailed monthly weather guide for Ho Chi Minh City:

Weather in January

January signifies the start of the dry season in Ho Chi Minh City, offering minimal rainfall and a high number of sunshine hours. The average temperature ranges from 21°C to 32°C, allowing locals and visitors to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere of New Year and Tet celebrations.

Rainfall is low, typically around 25mm and occurring over 2 days, with average humidity levels around 70%. Daily sunshine lasts about 8 hours.

Weather in February

February, part of the dry season, features warm and dry conditions, with average temperatures peaking at 32°C and dipping to 22°C.

This month is the driest of the year, with rainfall averaging just 10mm over 1 rainy day and humidity at about 70%. Daily sunshine reaches nearly 9 hours, providing plenty of time to explore the city.

Weather in March

March weather remains similar to February, characterized by moderate temperatures and consistent humidity. Average daytime temperatures range from 23°C to 33°C.

While continuing to experience the dry season, rainfall slightly increases to 15mm, spread over 2 wet days. Humidity remains low at 70%, accompanied by nearly 9 hours of sunshine, making it the sunniest month.

Weather in April

April serves as the transition month marking the shift from dry to wet season. Average temperatures rise continuously to highs of 34°C and lows of 22°C, while humidity increases to around 79%.

Rainfall amounts rise to approximately 50mm occurring over 5 rainy days. With 12 hours of daylight, you can expect around 8 hours of sunshine daily. April also has a high UV index.

Weather in May

May marks the commencement of the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City. Average temperatures fluctuate between 25°C and 35°C, coupled with high humidity and heavy downpours. This month signifies the start of summer across Vietnam, where humidity can reach 79%. Daily sunshine lasts for about 6 hours within a 12-hour daylight span.

Rainfall dramatically increases to about 200mm, occurring on roughly 12 rainy days, often accompanied by thunderstorms and minor floods.

Weather in June

June represents peak rainy season, coinciding with the start of the typhoon season in Ho Chi Minh City. The average temperature during this month ranges from 24°C to 32°C. However, high humidity at 83% can make conditions uncomfortable. Cloud cover also reduces daily sunshine to approximately 5.7 hours.

During June, the city can experience flooding from heavy downpours, accumulating about 325mm of rain over 13 wet days. Storms often accompany these deluges.

Weather in July

July continues the rainy season, maintaining temperatures similar to June, with highs around 33°C and lows of 24°C. Humidity levels remain high at 83%, and daily sunshine lasts about 5.7 hours.

Precipitation is significant, with around 300mm spread over 13 rainy days and an increased likelihood of severe storms affecting the area.

Weather in August

August weather is characterized by cloudy skies and frequent storms. Average temperatures hover around 32°C for the highs and 24°C for the lows, with humidity peaking at 84%. Daily sunshine typically lasts around 5.5 hours.

This month generally yields heavy rainfall, with about 275mm falling across 12 rainy days, often accompanied by thunderstorms.

Weather in September

September experiences a hot climate with significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from 33°C to 24°C, with cooler nights dropping by 1-2°C. Daily sunshine lasts around 5.5 hours, but humidity peaks at 85%, marking the highest level throughout the year.

As the rainy season approaches its end, rainfall remains high at approximately 325mm, over a staggering 21 wet days, contributing to a humid environment.

Weather in October

In October, Ho Chi Minh City experiences slightly reduced rainfall compared to September, with an expected 12 rainy days and less precipitation at around 225mm. While tropical cyclones can still impact the area, overall weather is generally less severe.

This month sees average temperatures of 33°C for highs and 23°C for lows, with sunshine durations of approximately 6 hours each day.

Weather in November

November marks the end of the rainy season, featuring reduced rainfall and milder conditions. Typically, around 10 days in this month receive rainfall, accumulating to about 100mm, nearly half of previous months' levels. The southwest monsoon winds bring mild breezes throughout the month.

The average daily temperature stands at around 27°C, with highs reaching 31°C and lows of 22°C. Humidity levels remain high at about 81%, making the atmosphere feel warm and sticky. Daylight extends slightly longer with around 6.7 hours of sunshine daily.

Weather in December

December is the first month of the dry season in Ho Chi Minh City, contrasting sharply with the cold winter in the north. Temperatures during this period typically range from 21°C to 31°C. The humidity drops to around 77%, contributing to a more comfortable environment.

Rainfall also decreases significantly, averaging only about 50mm across 5 wet days, making the chances of encountering a shower during your visit slim. On average, the city enjoys approximately 7 hours of sunshine a day.