Vietnam weather

Vietnamese weather is determined from the influence of two monsoons, the hot southwest monsoon (March to September) and the cool northeast monsoon (October to March).

From October to March the cool northeast monsoon blows down from the Chinese coast bringing cool damp weather to the north of Vietnam and inducing warm dry weather to the south.

From March to September, during the southwest monsoon, air flows inland from the sea and brings with it moist air and heavy rainfall throughout the entire country. 90% of the rainfall in Vietnam occurs during these summer months.

A climate chart showing the weather in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Featuring monthly temperature forecasts and mean expected rainfall.

Humidity is approximately 80% throughout the year with very little fluctuation.

From July to November central and northern Vietnam are affected by strong typhoons bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall.

A climate chart showing the weather in Hanoi, Vietnam. Featuring monthly temperature forecasts and mean expected rainfall.

November to March and the period July to August are the peak seasons in Vietnam. At these times the local transportation and attractions will be crowded with visitors to the region. In contrast the months of May, June and September see the least visitors.

Unless you plan to restrict your visit to one or the other, (North or South Vietnam), choosing a time to visit is really a case of weighing up the weather between the two and hedging your bets.