Best time to visit Cambodia

Visiting Cambodia in February

In February, the heat is rising, making now the perfect time to discover the wild west of Cambodia. Koh Kong is a remote jungle paradise where you can enjoy complete immersion within your surroundings. The sounds of birdsong, the calls of monkeys and the distant trumpeting of elephant will be your background soundtrack. Visit enchanting waterfalls and some of the country’s least populated beaches, take kayaking trips on the mighty Tatai River and discover the luxury tented camp Shinta Mani Wild.

Visiting Cambodia in March

March is a warm month, ideal for checking out Cambodia’s most beautiful beaches. Head to Sihanoukville to catch a boat to the islands, or Kep for a quaint, local retreat. Enjoy safari treks in the Kep National Park, spot marine creatures on diving adventures in the renowned waters of the Gulf of Thailand, and take a boat trip out to Koh Thonsáy, a small island dotted with picturesque bamboo shacks. Kep is also a favourite foodie destination with some of the best seafood in the world as well as its very own crab market.

Visiting Cambodia in April

Another warm and dry month, April is a time to be by the sea. Don’t plan too many active outdoor activities unless you’re comfortable in the heat – at this time, sunloungers and cooling dips in the sea or your pool are the orders of the day.

April is the month of the Khmer New Year, a widely celebrated holiday when the whole country buzzes with excitement.

Visiting Cambodia in May

May is the last month of the long dry season when the heat is at its highest. At this time of year, it is possible to arrange sightseeing and wildlife-watching excursions for the mornings and long evenings. This is a non-peak month, so expect fewer crowds and lower prices.  

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is celebrated in May, at the beginning of the sowing season, and is a great chance to see the real Cambodia.

Visiting Cambodia in June

June is the first month of the rainy season, but these downpours will only appear sporadically at this time. Most of the rain will come in short-lived storms, and the climate is still delightfully warm. This is a good month to visit Phnom Penh, the country’s historic capital. Admire the elaborate French-colonial architecture alongside glittering Buddhist temples, as well as high-end shopping districts. When you factor in the world-class museums and restaurants, you can rest assured that Phnom Penh offers something for everyone.

Visiting Cambodia in July

July is another month of the rainy season, when crowds and prices are at their lowest throughout the country. Yet visitors to Cambodia often get lucky with a few weeks of sunshine since the rains generally fall at night. Discover the country’s famous jungle temples when they’re free of tourists, often with eerie mists just perfect for stunning photographs. Visit Battambang, an 11th-century Khmer city and see the hilltop temple of Phnom Sampeau and the magnificent carved-stone pillars of Phnom Banan. Nearby, you may also visit Cambodia’s first winery, Chan Thai Choeung.

Visiting Cambodia in August

The climate cools down a little bit throughout August, making it a great month for active exploring. As this is still a wet season month, your jungle safaris can be arranged for the days with the best weather. With greenery bursting out throughout the forests and berries and fruits ripening on the branches, this can be a fantastic time for spotting Cambodia’s incredible birdlife. Spot a colourful parrot, noble crane or mysterious ibis at the riverside. Bird lovers are guaranteed a fantastic time in both Koh Kong and Kep.

Visiting Cambodia in September

September is often the wettest month of the year, though this can be great for birdwatchers and those who hate to wait in line. Discover the bustling city of Phnom Penh, people watching and browsing the vibrant markets. Venture a little out of the city on river-fishing trips and nature hikes.

September is a great time to catch the 15-day-long festival of Pchum Ben, or Ancestors’ Day, when locals decorate their homes and bring offerings to local temples.

Visiting Cambodia in October

In October, you can expect less rain and cooler temperatures, making this a good month to enjoy Cambodia’s wonderful wildlife-watching experiences. Search for panther, tiger and bear in the thick rainforests, and be sure to be the first at the most iconic temples and pagodas before the seasonal crowds come. This is also a great time to travel throughout the country, including variety – the spice of life – in your itinerary.

Visiting Cambodia in November

The dry season has now officially commenced, and the temperatures are unlikely to reach over 30 degrees Celsius. This makes November a brilliant month for jungle safaris and temple viewing in Rattanak Kiri, a lush rainforest landscape scattered with waterfalls and mysterious volcanic lakes. Enjoy river trips and helicopter rides, as well as many other ways to experience the exquisite natural beauty.

November is when you can experience Bon Om Touk, the Cambodian Water Festival, in the capital. For three days, Phnom Penh is awash with concerts, boat races and other exciting events.

Visiting Cambodia in December

With fantastic weather and little or no rain, December is a great month wherever you are in Cambodia. Travel around and experience everything this eastern gem has to offer. Enjoy spectacular beaches and superb safari trips into the lush forests. This can be one of the best times of year to visit Siem Reap, home of the mesmerising Angkor Wat, as well as many other awe-inspiring historic sites. Tour the hills, meeting the local tribes and learning about their daily lifestyles.