Ho Chi Minh City Weather

Ho Chi Minh City is situated in the southeast of Vietnam and experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by minimal annual temperature variation, being summer-like throughout the year. But it has distinct rainy season and dry season.

What’s the Temperature Like in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City enjoys a year-round hot weather. The high temperatures mostly range from 30 to 37℃ (86 - 99℉), while the low temperatures are between 22 and 28℃ (72 - 82℉). Thanks to the regulating effect of the ocean, extreme high temperatures above 40℃ (104℉) are rare. However, the abundant moisture brought by maritime keeps the air humid, making the apparent temperature much higher than the actual one and leading to sticky feelings. Often within ten minutes after staying outside at noon, your clothes will be soaked with sweat.

In comparison, December to February is relatively cooler in Ho Chi Minh City: highs typically range from 28 - 34℃ (82 - 93℉), lows from 20 - 26℃ (68 - 79℉). While still hot, it is not unbearable like in other months, barely making you reluctant to go out. Muggy conditions ease noticeably in the mornings, evenings, or after rain, so you can stroll the old streets for a pleasant taste of local charm with a cup of iced coffee in hand.

Cool Morning in Saigon

How about Rainfall in Ho Chi Minh City?

Rainfall in Ho Chi Minh City is concentrated between May and October. Influenced by the southwest monsoon, this period sees abundant maritime moisture and frequent strong convection, resulting in a rainy season characterized by frequent downpours, which is short but intense: the monthly average rainfall mostly surpasses 210 mm, with over 18 rainy days. The weather is highly dramatic - clear skies in one moment, dark clouds rolling in another, and sudden downpours that quickly leave streets calf-deep in water, followed shortly by the sun shining again. Sneakers are prone to getting soaked, so it’s advisable to bring sandals.

Correspondingly, the dry season runs from November to April. Precipitation during this period is minimal, with fewer than 30 rainy days recorded over a six-month span and an average monthly rainfall mostly below 40 mm. The weather is stable with few fluctuations.

What’s the Intensity of Ultraviolet Rays?

Ho Chi Minh City experiences high levels of ultraviolet radiation year round, consistently above level 11, which is considered extreme. Without proper sun protection, skin can become hot, red, and even peel after just 30 minutes, and eyes may also be damaged. Therefore, it is essential to wear sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, and a hat when going out.

Saigon Bike Rental Shop

What is the Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City?

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is dry season from November to April. The northeast monsoon brings low precipitation, so there is no need to worry about the itinerary being disrupted by heavy rain. As long as you avoid the hottest midday hours, you can comfortably plan various outdoor activities. Whether strolling around the city’s landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Central Post Office, or taking a boat trip to explore the water villages, you will have an excellent experience.

It should be noted that this period is the peak tourist season in Ho Chi Minh City. Popular attractions and accommodations are often in short supply. It is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance and book accommodation and transportation before departure.

See more: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral

Packing List for Visiting Ho Chi Minh City

Clothes & Shoes: It is recommended to bring quick-drying T-shirts, tank tops, dresses and sun-protective clothing for the upper body, paired with sports shorts and thin pants for the lower body. For footwear, prepare lightweight breathable sports shoes, non-slip sandals and slippers to suit different occasions.

Others: Prepare sun protection essentials such as a parasol, sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. Don’t forget to pack mosquito repellent. For rainy days, bring an umbrella, raincoat, waterproof phone pouch and waterproof backpack.

Travel Advices

1. It is recommended to plan your itinerary following the rhythm of “outdoor activities in the morning, and indoor in the afternoon” because sudden downpours are more often in the afternoon. For instance, you can head to Cu Chi Tunnels in the morning to experience the shooting activities and see firsthand how Vietnamese soldiers hid during the war. Then, in the afternoon, you can visit indoor attractions such as the War Remnants Museum and Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts, staying dry while soaking up history and art.

Cu Chi Tunnels

2. If you plan to visit Ho Chi Minh City during the 2026 dry season, don’t miss the Binh Dong Floating Flower Market. The minimal rainfall keeps boat travel smooth and unobstructed. It is recommended to prepare small cash in advance for buying flowers on-site. If you want to experience a more diverse water trade, you can consider the My Tho Floating Market, which is 70 kilometers (44 miles) away from Ho Chi Minh City. There, you can find not only flowers but also various snacks and coffee.

Binh Dong Floating Flower Market

See Also:

Vietnam weather

Vietnam Travel Guide

Ho Chi Minh Tunnels

Top Things to Do in Vietnam