Best time to visit Cambodia

This is the driest month of the year, falling in Cambodia’s high and dry season between November and March. With pleasant, not-yet-too-hot temperatures, it’s a wonderful time to explore Angkor and the south coast beaches, although they can get very crowded. Chinese New Year celebrations are popular in Cambodia around this time, falling in either January or February. The dry season is also the best time to enjoy outdoor activities in the Cardamom Mountains before the humidity hits.

February is another very pleasant month to visit Cambodia. Visitors can enjoy dry weather and temperatures that are still comfortable for discovering temples and other cultural sites. It’s a great time to visit the mighty Tonle Sap in the country’s northwest, while water levels remain fairly high. Like January, February is the best time to visit Cambodia’s glorious coastline and idyllic islands such as Koh Rong.

Cambodia’s peak season continues into March, with temperatures steadily climbing. It’s still dry, so cool off on the southern coast beaches, explore Angkor or discover the capital, Phnom Penh. This is still a very busy time for tourists, so expect accommodation and tours to be booked up far in advance.

April can be very hot (sometimes reaching as high as 40°C) and can be too intense for exploring historical sites. This is a good month to visit the south coast, where you can take advantage of lower rates outside of the peak season but still enjoy hot (and mostly rain-free) days. However, the rainy season threatens, so be prepared for some showers. You can catch the festivities for Khmer New Year in towns and cities mid-month.

Much like April, May is a scorching month, and rain showers increase. It can still be a good month to hit the Cambodian coast and experience the beautiful beaches without the crowds, but you should expect some rain, especially towards the end of the month. Elsewhere, the heat can be oppressive (without somewhere to cool off), making sightseeing undesirable. However, May is another budget-friendly month to visit, with many properties offering great rates.

Cambodia’s wet season kicks off in June, characterised by short but heavy showers. Southern coastal regions generally receive the most rainfall, so we wouldn’t recommend a beach break in June. The green season has its perks, however, as Angkor and its surrounding landscape are brought to life in the rains. Visit for Buddha Day, occurring in May or June, to watch monks carrying candles through Angkor Wat at night.

The rainy season continues into July. While the coastal beaches and islands are best avoided, it’s a great time to explore the majestic Tonle Sap, which swells to five times its dry season size. Temperatures are also more bearable, hovering around the mid-late 20°Cs. A good way to explore the temples without crowds is to time your excursions to the mornings, with the added benefit of avoiding the rains, which usually arrive in the late afternoon.

August is another wet month, but like in July and June, there is a lot of sunshine between showers. This is another great month to explore Cambodia’s ancient sites without the tourist hordes and enjoy Tonle Sap while it’s at its fullest. It’s a popular time for families from North America and Europe to holiday in Cambodia, as it aligns with school holidays (and discounts are usually available).

September is Cambodia’s wettest month, so expect daily heavy showers wherever you travel. Some rural areas become inaccessible due to the rain, but it’s still possible to sight-see if you only head out on morning excursions. This peak rainy season month is a good time to take advantage of more affordable rates at luxury hotels and resorts.

The shoulder season month of October is the best time to visit Cambodia for an off-the-beaten-track experience. Travellers can expect some rain, but it starts to ease with more dry, sunny days than wet ones. It’s a great time to enjoy the lush, emerald landscapes, and works well for families looking for an October half-term getaway.

November ushers in Cambodia’s peak tourist season. Temperatures hover around the mid-20°Cs, perfect for city exploring and temple hopping. It’s also the start of the best season to discover the natural beauty of the Cardamom Mountains, when humidity levels are bearable and the rain has subsided. Around this time, you can catch the Water Festival, which celebrates the reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow, with plentiful parties and boat races in the capital.

December offers optimal weather conditions across Cambodia, with dry, warm and sunny days. It’s a wonderful time to visit historical sites or relax on the sparkling southern coast (why not do both?). This is one of the most popular months to visit Cambodia, however, so prepare for busy hotspots and higher prices. Holidays in both November and December are best booked well in advance, as availability can fill up quickly.