Cambodia is a country located in Southeast Asia, and it has a tropical climate. The country is generally hotter compared to neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam because it has a limited coastline. There are two main seasons in Cambodia: the Wet Season and the Dry Season.
The Wet Season lasts from May to October. During this time, Cambodia gets a lot of rain. About 75% of the country's annual rainfall happens in these months. The rain is heavy and can last for hours, sometimes days. The worst of the rain happens from July to September. During this period, the rain can cause floods, especially in cities like Phnom Penh and rural areas. If you travel during this time, be aware that some outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or boat tours might be canceled because of the floods.
The Dry Season starts in November and ends in April. The weather is cooler from November to January, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, which is very comfortable for traveling. This is the best time to visit Cambodia if you want to explore the country without dealing with the heat or rain.
However, from March to April, the temperature increases a lot. It can be very hot, sometimes reaching 40°C or higher. During this time, Cambodia also becomes more humid, which can make the heat feel even worse. If you visit during this period, it’s important to wake up early and plan to do most of your outdoor activities before 10 AM, as the sun can be very strong later in the day.
- Cooler months: From November to January, the weather is mild and perfect for exploring. It’s a good time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Hot months: From March to April, it gets very hot. The temperature can reach up to 40°C, so be prepared for the heat and high humidity.
- Rainy months: From May to October, there will be a lot of rain, especially from July to September, when flooding can happen. This is the Wet Season.
- For the Wet Season: Bring light clothes that dry quickly, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes. The rain can be sudden, so it’s good to have something to keep you dry.
- For the Dry Season: Pack light, breathable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you are visiting in the hottest months, don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Prepare for sudden rain: Rain in Cambodia usually comes in short but heavy bursts, so keep an umbrella or a poncho with you, just in case.
- Flooding in the Wet Season: Some areas might be hard to reach during the Wet Season, especially in July and August, so check your travel plans and be flexible.
- Stay cool in the Dry Season: If you visit in the hot months (March to May), be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid the sun as much as possible, especially after 10 AM.
So, to make the most of your Cambodia holiday, it's important to plan according to the season and weather conditions to prepare for both the heat and the rain in Cambodia.