Vietnam is a country located in the middle of a tropical and subtropical zone -northern Vietnam is approximately at the same latitude as the Canary Islands-, which means it has a relatively warm and humid climate all year round. Vietnam’s average temperatures range between 15 and 30 degrees throughout the year. The highest temperatures and the rainy season are concentrated in the summer months, while winters are drier and cooler. In the mountainous areas of northern Vietnam, winter lows can drop to 10°C.
Different climates depending on the region of Vietnam
However, within the same country you can find three distinct types of climate, as follows.
Vietnam climate chart (Source: Wikipedia)
Vietnamese subtropical climate – North and inland
This is the climate found in the northern and inland areas of the country, with dry winters and humid summers, typical of forested areas with plenty of jungle. Be prepared for high temperatures and high humidity in summer.
Vietnamese tropical climate – South and southwest
In the southwest there is a tropical climate, with clearly defined wet and dry seasons and very high summer temperatures.
Vietnamese monsoon climate – Central region
In the central region of the country, the monsoon climate predominates, with high temperatures and very abundant rainfall, almost daily, during June, July, August and September.
As you can see, temperatures are always quite high in Vietnam throughout the year; the only plausible difference is the amount of rain you will encounter depending on the time of year you travel. If you find the heat and humidity overwhelming, avoid the summer months.
Travelling in summer or in winter?
Depending on when you choose your trip to Vietnam, you will encounter one temperature or another. The key is to know what the weather will be like in your destination city:
Travelling in summer: low season, heat, heavy rainfall
The months of July and August are low season in Vietnam: remember that these months are the rainy and hot season in Vietnam, so expect daily or almost daily rain and short, intense downpours. High temperatures combined with relative humidity close to 100% make it very uncomfortable for many Westerners used to cool European summers. During the summer months, Vietnam receives fewer tourists, but paradoxically it is when the most Spaniards visit (as Spain concentrates its holidays in July and August). If you want to visit Vietnam between May and October, this period is perfect for focusing on areas somewhat further from the monsoon’s area of influence, such as the stunning landscapes of Sapa, in the north of the country.
Travelling in winter: tourist crowds, moderate temperatures, dry weather
By contrast, from November to April is when Vietnam receives the most tourists. They are usually Westerners escaping the cold winters in the Northern Hemisphere. The main drawback of this season is that in high mountain areas you may encounter low temperatures and, due to less rain, the landscapes will be somewhat less spectacular and colourful. Nevertheless, tourist services will be operating at 100%. Remember that if you travel in January/February, it is advisable to avoid the week of Vietnamese New Year, as the country comes to a standstill and it is very difficult to find services in operation (and if you do, they will be double or triple the price).
