Best Time to Visit Cambodia: Complete Weather Guide 2026

Quick Answer

The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season from November to April, with December to February being ideal for comfortable temperatures (22-32°C) and minimal rainfall. For budget travelers seeking fewer crowds, consider the shoulder months of October-November or April-May. Avoid the peak rainy season from July to September when heavy downpours can disrupt travel plans.

Introduction

Cambodia's tropical climate offers distinct seasonal variations that significantly impact travel experiences. From the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat to the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville and the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, timing your visit correctly can make the difference between an unforgettable journey and a challenging one. This comprehensive weather guide helps you plan the perfect Cambodian adventure by breaking down climate patterns, regional variations, and seasonal advantages throughout the year.

Cambodia's Climate Overview

Geographic Climate Factors

Cambodia's weather is influenced by several key factors:

• Monsoon winds from the southwest (May-October) and northeast (November-March)
• Tropical latitude (10-15°N) creating consistent warm temperatures
• Gulf of Thailand proximity affecting coastal humidity
• Mekong River system influencing regional weather patterns
• Tonlé Sap lake impact on local precipitation

Climate Zones

Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown

November (Excellent)

Temperature: 22-31°C (72-88°F) Rainfall: 50-100mm Humidity: 70-75% Pros: End of rainy season, lush landscapes, comfortable temperatures Cons: Some lingering mud in rural areas Best For: Temple exploration, photography, city tours

December (Peak Season)

Temperature: 21-30°C (70-86°F) Rainfall: 20-50mm Humidity: 65-70% Pros: Perfect weather, minimal rain, festive atmosphere Cons: Higher prices, more tourists Best For: All activities, beach visits, temple visits

January (Peak Season)

Temperature: 21-31°C (70-88°F) Rainfall: 10-30mm Humidity: 60-65% Pros: Ideal conditions, clear skies, low humidity Cons: Peak tourist season, premium pricing Best For: Photography, outdoor activities, cultural festivals

February (Excellent)

Temperature: 22-33°C (72-91°F) Rainfall: 10-40mm Humidity: 60-68% Pros: Great weather, Chinese New Year celebrations Cons: Beginning of temperature rise Best For: Cultural events, temple exploration

March (Good)

Temperature: 24-35°C (75-95°F) Rainfall: 30-80mm Humidity: 65-72% Pros: Fewer crowds, good prices Cons: Getting hot, occasional pre-monsoon showers Best For: Budget travel, cultural sites

April (Hot/Dry)

Temperature: 26-36°C (79-97°F) Rainfall: 60-120mm Humidity: 70-78% Pros: Khmer New Year celebrations, lower prices Cons: Very hot, beginning of rainy season Best For: Cultural festivals, indoor activities

May (Transition)

Temperature: 26-35°C (79-95°F) Rainfall: 150-200mm Humidity: 75-82% Pros: Green landscapes, fewer tourists Cons: Increasing rainfall, high humidity Best For: Nature photography, budget travel

June (Rainy Season)

Temperature: 25-33°C (77-91°F) Rainfall: 200-250mm Humidity: 80-85% Pros: Lush countryside, low season prices Cons: Daily rain showers, high humidity Best For: Rural exploration, waterfalls

July (Peak Rainy)

Temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F) Rainfall: 250-300mm Humidity: 82-88% Pros: Very green, minimal crowds Cons: Heavy rainfall, travel disruptions Best For: River cruises, rice field visits

August (Rainy Season)

Temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F) Rainfall: 240-280mm Humidity: 80-86% Pros: Full green landscapes, cultural events Cons: Continued heavy rain, humidity Best For: Cultural immersion, photography

September (Rainy)

Temperature: 24-32°C (75-90°F) Rainfall: 220-260mm Humidity: 78-84% Pros: Beginning of dry season, good prices Cons: Still rainy, humid conditions Best For: Late-season budget travel

October (Transition)

Temperature: 24-32°C (75-90°F) Rainfall: 120-180mm Humidity: 75-80% Pros: End of rainy season, waterfalls at peak Cons: Unpredictable weather, some humidity Best For: Nature activities, shoulder season benefits

Regional Weather Details

Phnom Penh Weather Patterns

Dry Season (November-April)

• Temperature Range: 21-35°C (70-95°F)
• Rainfall: Minimal, 10-50mm monthly
• Humidity: 60-70%
• Special Events: Water Festival (November), Chinese New Year (January/February)

Rainy Season (May-October)

• Temperature Range: 25-33°C (77-91°F)
• Rainfall: 150-300mm monthly
• Humidity: 75-88%
• Pattern: Afternoon showers, occasional storms

Siem Reap and Angkor Region

Optimal Temple Visiting Weather

Sunrise/Sunset Times for Photography

• December-February: Sunrise 6:15-6:45 AM, Sunset 5:45-6:15 PM
• March-May: Sunrise 5:45-6:15 AM, Sunset 6:15-6:30 PM
• June-August: Sunrise 5:30-6:00 AM, Sunset 6:30-6:45 PM

Coastal Areas (Sihanoukville, Kep, Kampot)

Beach Weather Summary

Monsoon Impact on Coastal Activities

• Dry Season: Calm seas, excellent diving/snorkeling
• Rainy Season: Rougher seas, limited water activities, but lush landscapes

Seasonal Travel Planning

Peak Season (December-February)

Advantages:

• Perfect weather conditions
• Clear skies for photography
• All attractions fully accessible
• Festive atmosphere

Considerations:

• Highest prices of the year
• Major tourist crowds
• Early booking essential
• Popular sites can be overwhelming

Pricing Impact:

• Hotels: 30-50% higher than low season
• Tours: 20-30% premium
• Flights: Peak international rates

Shoulder Season (October-November, March-April)

Advantages:

• Good weather with fewer crowds
• Better value for money
• Lush landscapes (October-November)
• Cultural events (April Khmer New Year)

Considerations:

• Some temperature extremes (April)
• Unpredictable rain (October)
• Limited availability for popular sites

Low Season (May-September)

Advantages:

• Lowest prices of the year
• Minimal tourist crowds
• Lush, green landscapes
• Authentic local experiences

Considerations:

• Heavy rainfall can disrupt plans
• High humidity (80%+)
• Some rural areas inaccessible
• Limited beach activities

Activity-Specific Recommendations

Temple Exploration (Angkor Wat Complex)

Best Time: December-February Optimal Hours: Early morning (5:30-8:30 AM) and late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM) Weather Considerations: Avoid midday heat (11 AM-3 PM) Photography Tips: Golden hour lighting, fewer crowds during sunrise

Beach and Coastal Activities

Prime Season: November-February Water Temperature: 26-28°C year-round Best Conditions: December-January for calm seas Activities: Diving, snorkeling, island hopping, beach relaxation

Cultural Festivals and Events

Nature and Wildlife

Best Period: December-March for dry conditions Bird Watching: December-February at Tonlé Sap Waterfall Visits: August-October for maximum flow Dolphin Watching: December-February in Kratie

Practical Travel Tips by Season

Dry Season Packing Essentials

Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics
• Long sleeves for temple visits
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat and sunglasses
• Light jacket for air-conditioned spaces

Sun Protection:

• High SPF sunscreen (30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• After-sun lotion
• UV-protective sunglasses

Health Considerations:

• Stay hydrated (2-3 liters daily)
• Heat exhaustion prevention
• Insect repellent for evening activities

Rainy Season Preparation

Water Protection:

• Quality rain jacket/poncho
• Waterproof phone case
• Quick-dry clothing
• Waterproof bag for electronics

Footwear:

• Waterproof shoes or sandals
• Quick-dry socks
• Slip-resistant soles

Health & Safety:

• Anti-fungal foot powder
• Mosquito repellent (DEET 20%+)
• Water purification tablets
• First aid kit for minor injuries

Budget Considerations by Season

Accommodation Price Variations

Transportation Costs

• Peak Season: 20-30% higher tuk-tuk and taxi rates
• Low Season: Better negotiation position, 15-20% savings
• Fuel Prices: Relatively stable year-round

Food and Dining

• Restaurant Prices: Consistent year-round
• Street Food: Best value during all seasons
• Seasonal Specialties: Different fruits/vegetables by season

Weather-Related Travel Disruptions

Common Rainy Season Issues

Transportation:

• Rural road flooding
• Flight delays/cancellations
• Limited boat services
• Tuk-tuk availability reduced

Attraction Access:

• Some temples temporarily closed
• Rural areas inaccessible
• Beach activities limited
• Trekking trails muddy/slippery

Health Concerns:

• Increased mosquito activity
• Water contamination risks
• Heat and humidity stress
• Mold-related allergies

Mitigation Strategies

Planning:

• Build buffer days into itineraries
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
• Have alternative indoor activities planned
• Keep emergency contacts readily available

Daily Adjustments:

• Start early to avoid afternoon rains
• Have backup transportation options
• Pack waterproof protection for valuables
• Monitor weather forecasts daily

FAQ

What is the absolute best month to visit Cambodia?

December offers the perfect combination of pleasant temperatures (21-30°C), minimal rainfall, clear skies, and festive atmosphere. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive month. For a balance of good weather and value, consider November or February.

Is Cambodia too hot to visit in April?

April is the hottest month (26-36°C) and can be challenging for extensive sightseeing. However, if you plan activities for early morning and late afternoon, stay hydrated, and take midday breaks, it's manageable. The Khmer New Year celebrations in April also offer unique cultural experiences.

Can I visit Cambodia during the rainy season?

Yes, but with proper preparation. The rainy season (May-October) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Rain typically falls in afternoon downpours, leaving mornings clear. Pack waterproof gear and be flexible with your itinerary.

How does the monsoon affect travel between cities?

During peak rainy season (July-September), some rural roads may become temporarily impassable, and boat services can be disrupted. Major cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville remain accessible year-round via paved roads and airports.

What should I pack for Cambodia's climate?

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing year-round. For dry season, add sun protection and a light jacket. For rainy season, include waterproof gear and quick-dry clothes. Always bring modest clothing for temple visits (covered shoulders and knees).

Are there any weather-related health risks?

The main concerns are heat exhaustion in hot months and mosquito-borne diseases during rainy season. Stay hydrated, use insect repellent, and consider malaria prophylaxis for rural areas. Air quality can be poor during burning season (February-April).

How does weather affect Angkor Wat visits?

Dry season offers ideal conditions for exploring Angkor Wat, with clear skies for sunrise photography. Rainy season means fewer crowds and lush surroundings but slippery temple steps and occasional rain. Early morning visits are recommended year-round.

Is beach weather good year-round in Cambodia?

Beach weather is best from November to February with calm seas and clear skies. March-May is hot but still suitable for beach activities. Rainy season brings rougher seas and limited water sports, though some still enjoy beach time between showers.

Conclusion

Choosing the best time to visit Cambodia depends on your priorities: perfect weather and peak experiences (December-February), budget-friendly travel with fewer crowds (May-September), or a balance of both (October-November, March-April).

Regardless of when you visit, Cambodia offers incredible experiences year-round—from the majestic temples of Angkor to the vibrant culture of Phnom Penh and the tranquil beaches of the coast. Plan according to your weather preferences, budget considerations, and desired activities, and you'll discover why Cambodia remains one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations.

For current weather conditions and forecasts, check our Weather in Cambodia tool, or get specific information for Phnom Penh weather and Siem Reap weather.

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