Vietnam Rainy Season: Travel Tips for Rainy Season Travel

Vietnam rainy season traverses the nation at various periods throughout the year. This means that while one region of the nation is dry, another may be experiencing a monsoon. But don't let this deter you; it's seldom so bad as to make a plan to visit Vietnam difficult.

With a little bit of planning, you can still have an amazing trip during the rainy season. Here are some information and tips to help you make the most of your trip during the rainy season in Vietnam.

Vietnam Rainy Season by Region

North Vietnam Rainy Season

To track the rain in northern Vietnam, it makes sense to separate the territory into two primary sections: Sapa and the upland regions, and The Red River Delta. From the start, keep in mind that the north is never completely dry. Similar to Vietnam's rainy season, it rains at varying intensities throughout the year in the North.


From October through March, precipitation is at its lowest, and September to December are the ideal months to visit. The end of April and May are marked by a few showers and rising temperatures, bringing in humid, wet conditions. June is the most rainfall month in Sapa, making hiking conditions dangerous due to slick pathways.

A month later, it strikes Hanoi and Halong Bay, and in July and August, torrential rains and tropical storms pummel the coast. Be on the watch for weather alerts, since these circumstances restrict travel in Halong Bay. August in Sapa has less precipitation and more sunlight.

Central Vietnam Rainy Season

Similar to the north, Central Vietnam has sporadic rainfall throughout the year. March and April are the driest months of the year. Likewise, it may be separated into two halves. It has the coast with its beaches (Hoi An, Da Nang, and Nha Trang) and the interior highlands, which are mountainous areas (Da Lat).

January and February are regarded as the greatest months to travel. In these months, the occasional drizzle helps to enhance the cold air and pleasant sunlight.


In the months of May and June, rain begins to fall in Da Lat and the central highlands. However, the precipitation is mild and the weather stays pleasant. The rainiest months are July through September, following which the precipitation decreases until October.

After the rain stops, it is safe to continue hiking. The contrary is true in Hoi An, Da Nang, and Nha Trang, three seaside cities in Vietnam. From March through August, the weather is most conducive to beachgoing, after which it begins to rain. September through December is the wettest season, putting a damper on beach vacations.

South Vietnam Rainy Season

The Mekong Delta is in the southernmost region of Vietnam and has two seasons: wet and dry. The rainy season in the Mekong Delta (from May to November) mimics that of the rest of the country, but the intensity of the rain is much greater.


During these months, the Mekong River rises, flooding the rice paddies and smaller canals. This makes transportation difficult since many of the roads and bridges are submerged. While this may seem like a nightmare for travelers, it is actually an excellent time to visit as you will get to see the local way of life in action.

Keep in mind that during the rainy season, many of the local attractions will be closed due to the weather. Make sure to check in advance so that you don’t waste time traveling to an attraction that is not open.

Travel Tips for Rainy Season Travel in Vietnam

Now you know a little more about the rainy season in Vietnam. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip

• Check the Weather Forecast before you go: This may seem like an obvious one, but it is important to check the weather forecast before you travel to Vietnam. This way you can plan your trip around the rain and avoid any surprises.
• Bring the right gear: If you are planning on doing any hiking, make sure to bring the proper gear. This includes items such as waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and an umbrella
• Know When to Visit Each Region: As we mentioned before, the rainy season affects different regions in different ways. Make sure to do your research so that you know when the best time to visit each region is.
• Be Prepared for Delays: During the rainy season, transportation can be delayed due to the weather. Make sure to leave extra time in your itinerary so that you don’t miss your flight or train.
• Have a Plan B: Even if you check the weather forecast, there is always a chance that it will rain. Make sure to have a plan B in case your original plans are ruined by the rain.

Following these tips will help you make the most of your trip to Vietnam, even during the rainy season. So, don’t let the weather stop you from exploring this beautiful country.

Should You Travel to Vietnam during The Rainy Season?

If you're thinking if you should visit Vietnam during the rainy season, my recommendation is that you do so to experience something completely different. The following are some special benefits and things to do when visiting Vietnam during the rainy season:

• There are fewer crowds of tourists which means you'll have a more authentic experience.
• The rice paddies are full and green, providing a beautiful landscape that's different from the dry season.
• You can go on a Mekong River cruise and see the river to its fullest.
• You can visit the floating markets which are only accessible during the wet season.
• You can see how the locals live and work during this time as they go about their daily lives despite the rain.
• There are often festivals and celebrations that take place during the rainy season.

So if you don't mind getting a little wet, I say go for it and book your ticket to Vietnam during the rainy season!

Best Times to Visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam generally depends on what you want to see and do while you're in the country. For example, if you want to experience Vietnamese New Year (Tet), then you'll need to travel during late January or early February. Or, if you're interested in visiting the floating markets, then you'll need to go during the wet season between May and November.


>>> Read more: Best time to visit Vietnam

Here is a breakdown of the best times to visit Vietnam for different activities:

• January to February: This is the best time to experience Tet, Vietnam's Lunar New Year celebration.
• March to April: This is the ideal time to travel if you want to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.
• May to November: This is the wet season, but it's still a great time to visit if you want to see the floating markets or go on a Mekong River cruise.
• December: This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper prices on accommodation and activities.

So, as you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when is the best time to visit Vietnam. It all depends on your individual preferences and what you want to see and do while you're in the country.

Final Thoughts

The rainy season in Vietnam is from May to November, with the heaviest rains occurring from July to September. While the rain can put a damper on your plans, there are still plenty of activities that you can do during this time. Just make sure to bring the proper gear and to check the weather forecast before you travel. With a little planning, you can still have an amazing trip to Vietnam even during the rainy season.

Visit our website at asianwaytravel.com if you are seeking Vietnam Tours for your upcoming vacation. We have over 100 Vietnam tour packages that may meet the demands of any client.