When to visit Cambodia? Climate guide 2026 / 2027

Weather and Climate in Cambodia

Understanding the tropical climate of the Khmer Kingdom

Cambodia features three distinct climatic zones influenced by monsoons, the altitude of the Cardamom Mountains, and the proximity to the Gulf of Thailand, creating significant variations depending on the region and season.

Central Plains and Angkor: The warmest zone with marked monsoons from May to October
Southern Coast and Sihanoukville: More temperate climate thanks to sea breezes, with a prolonged dry season
Cardamom Mountains: Cooler temperatures at altitude, with higher precipitation

Cambodian Seasons

🌞 Cool Dry Season (November to February)

The most pleasant period with moderate temperatures and clear skies. Nights are cool and days are sunny, perfect for exploring the Angkor temples without the oppressive heat. This is the peak tourist season with high attendance but optimal climatic conditions.

Temperatures: 20-30°C / 68-86°F
Precipitation: Very low (10-20mm / 0.4-0.8in)
Pros: Ideal climate, accessible roads, excellent visibility, local festivals
Cons: High prices, tourist crowds
Ideal for: First-time visitors, families, photography, cultural tours

🔥 Hot Dry Season (March to May)

A period of intense heat with temperatures that can exceed 35°C / 95°F, especially in April. The air becomes dry and dusty, but it is an excellent time to observe rural life and take advantage of more affordable prices. Days are long and sunny despite the intense heat.

Temperatures: 25-38°C / 77-100°F
Precipitation: Low (30-50mm / 1.2-2in)
Pros: Reduced rates, fewer tourists, accessible roads
Cons: Intense heat, dust, daytime discomfort
Ideal for: Experienced travelers, tight budgets, authentic discovery

🌧️ Rainy Season (June to October)

The monsoon brings daily precipitation, usually in the form of intense late-afternoon showers. The landscape turns green, temperatures drop slightly, and the atmosphere becomes more humid. It is a magical time to discover a lush and authentic Cambodia.

Temperatures: 24-32°C / 75-90°F
Precipitation: Significant (200-300mm / 7.9-11.8in)
Pros: Verdant landscapes, low prices, authenticity, fewer crowds
Cons: Difficult roads, high humidity, daily showers
Ideal for: Adventurers, nature photographers, budget travel

Climate by Region of Cambodia

Cambodia presents a remarkable regional climatic diversity influenced by topography, maritime proximity, and altitude, creating distinct microclimates that enrich the travel experience.

🏛️ Siem Reap and Angkor

The historical heart of the country, this region experiences a tropical continental climate with marked seasonal variations. The Angkor temples benefit from a particular microclimate thanks to the surrounding vegetation.

Period	Weather	Temperature	Activities
Nov-Feb	Dry and cool	18-28°C / 64-82°F	Temple exploration, cycling
Mar-May	Hot and dry	25-35°C / 77-95°F	Morning visits
Jun-Oct	Rainy	24-30°C / 75-86°F	Photography, fewer crowds

Specifics: Morning mist in the cool season, dust in the hot season, lush greenery during the rains.

🏖️ Southern Coast and Sihanoukville

The coastal region benefits from a tropical maritime climate, tempered by ocean breezes. The islands offer a natural refuge from the continental heat with more stable temperatures.

Period	Weather	Temperature	Activities
Nov-Mar	Sunny	22-30°C / 72-86°F	Beach, diving, islands
Apr-May	Hot	26-32°C / 79-90°F	Water sports
Jun-Oct	Monsoon	25-29°C / 77-84°F	Surfing, nature observation

Specifics: Refreshing sea winds, less intense rainy season, protected island microclimates.

🌿 Cardamom Mountains

This mountainous region features a subtropical highland climate with cooler temperatures and higher precipitation, creating a unique ecosystem of tropical forests.

Period	Weather	Temperature	Activities
Nov-Feb	Cool and dry	15-25°C / 59-77°F	Trekking, ecotourism
Mar-May	Temperate	20-30°C / 68-86°F	Hiking, wildlife observation
Jun-Oct	Very rainy	18-26°C / 64-79°F	Waterfalls, lush forest

Specifics: Nighttime coolness year-round, morning fog, exceptional biodiversity linked to humidity.

🏙️ Phnom Penh and Central Plains

The capital and surrounding plains experience a tropical continental climate with high temperatures and significant humidity, particularly marked by the urban heat island effect.

Period	Weather	Temperature	Activities
Nov-Feb	Pleasant	20-30°C / 68-86°F	Urban visits, markets
Mar-May	Very hot	26-38°C / 79-100°F	Museums, morning activities
Jun-Oct	Stormy	25-32°C / 77-90°F	Urban culture, gastronomy

Specifics: Air pollution in the dry season, urban flooding during the monsoon, day/night thermal contrasts.

Practical Guide for Cambodia

Preparing for a trip to Cambodia requires careful adaptation to tropical climatic variations. Here are our practical recommendations to optimize your comfort and budget according to the Cambodian seasons.

👕 Seasonal packing

Cool Season (Nov-Feb): • Lightweight cotton clothing • Light sweater for evenings • Breathable walking shoes • Hat and sunglasses

Hot Season (Mar-May): • Ultra-light, light-colored fabrics • Enhanced sun protection • Ventilated sandals • Anti-dust scarf

Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): • Quick-dry clothing • Raincoat or poncho • Waterproof shoes • Plastic bag for electronics

💰 Seasonal budget

Period	Accommodation (€)	Transport (€)	Activities (€)	Crowds (/5)	Budget Tips
Nov-Feb	40-120	15-30	25-50	5/5	Book 3 months in advance
Mar-May	25-80	10-25	20-40	3/5	Negotiate on-site
Jun-Oct	20-60	8-20	15-30	2/5	Last-minute deals

💡 Money-saving tips

Avoid December-January to save 30-40% on accommodation
Book flights 2-3 months in advance for the cool season
Take advantage of reduced monsoon rates for flexible stays
Negotiate prices in the low season, especially for private tours

🏥 Health and precautions

Anti-malarial protection: Recommended year-round, reinforced during the rainy season
Hydration: 3-4L/day in the hot season; purified water is mandatory
Sun protection: SPF 50+ is essential; reapply every 2 hours
Monsoon precautions: Be aware of flooding and slippery roads
Vaccinations: Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis depending on areas

When to visit Cambodia? Complete Guide