Why Travel to Vietnam During the Rainy Season Is a Great Idea

When people think of the “rainy season” or “monsoon season”, they often imagine floods and storms, and assume it’s not a good time to travel. However, the rainy season in Vietnam offers some of the most stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences of the year. With comfortable temperatures, lush scenery, and seasonal highlights like the Mai Hich pouring season in the north or the An Giang floating season in the south, this period reveals a side of Vietnam you won’t see at any other time.

1. When does the rainy season in Vietnam start?

The question of when the rainy season in Vietnam begins doesn't have a single answer. Due to the country's diverse geography and climate, the monsoon season varies significantly from region to region. However, you can generally predict the approximate duration of the wet season for each part of the country. 

1.1 Rainy season in Northern Vietnam: May - Sept

Northern Vietnam has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring brings cool drizzle, while summer is hot with heavy rainfall. In the North-West and North-East regions, the rainy season typically starts in May and can last until August or September. In some years, it might extend to October. The wet season in Hanoi and the surrounding areas coincides with summer, running from May to August.

Global climate change has affected these patterns, potentially making the rainy season shorter or longer than usual.

Embracing the rainy days in Hanoi

1.2 Rainy season in Central Vietnam: Sept - Dec

Unlike the North, Central Vietnam's rainy season arrives later, generally starting between September and December of the following year. This period often sees heavy downpours, with precipitation sometimes reaching up to 3,000 mm in Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An.

During the transitional months of September and October, the weather is still pleasant, with mild sunshine and cool evenings. By November, the rains may be accompanied by cooler temperatures, though it's not as cold as in the North.

1.3 Rainy season in Southern Vietnam: May - Oct

In Southern Vietnam (including Ho Chi Minh City) the rainy season typically begins in May and lasts until October. This is due to monsoon winds from the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, which bring high humidity and frequent showers.

However, the rain in the South is often intermittent. It tends to be heavy but short-lived, with the sun often returning quickly afterward. This makes the climate during the wet season relatively cool and is often considered one of the most comfortable times of the year to visit cities like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Mekong Delta.

While these are the typical patterns, recent years have seen the season starting slightly earlier due to global climate change.

Rains often come and go just as quickly

2. Should you visit Vietnam during the rainy season?

While many believe the rainy season is not the ideal time for a vacation, this is a misconception. Visiting Vietnam during the monsoon offers a unique, refreshing, and genuinely rewarding experience that most travelers miss. Instead of being a drawback, the rain becomes an advantage, transforming the landscape and creating a serene atmosphere.

Here’s why embracing Vietnam’s rainy season is a fantastic idea:

You'll avoid the crowds. The rainy season offers a much more peaceful and authentic travel experience. Popular spots tend to be less crowded, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the journey without the usual rush. You can enjoy famous temples, beaches, and other main attractions at a more relaxed pace, which makes for a more intimate and serene adventure.

It's a budget-friendly option. In addition to enjoying a peaceful trip, traveling during the rainy season brings a lot of financial benefits you won't want to miss. Since it's the low season for international tourism, you'll find that flights, hotels, and tours all come with a much more inviting price tag. This can help you save a significant amount on a one or two-week trip, making a rainy-season getaway an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.

The scenery is breathtaking. The rain breathes new life into the landscapes. You can witness the spectacular "pouring-water season" in the northern mountains, where terraced rice fields are filled with water, or the magical "floating season" in the Mekong Delta, where the waterways come alive.

The air is clean and cool. Short but intense downpours quickly clear the air of dust and heat, leaving a cool and refreshing atmosphere. It's the perfect time to enjoy a warm cup of Vietnamese coffee and watch the world go by.

These are just a few reasons why the rainy season can be one of the best times to experience Vietnam's hidden beauty. If you're still concerned about the dangers of traveling to Vietnam during the rainy season, consider booking a tailor-made tour with a local travel company. They have the expertise to manage any unexpected weather, ensuring you get the most out of your trip safely and without the hassle.

Check out Vietnam luxury holidays

3. Unique things to do during the rainy season in Vietnam

When traveling in Vietnam, a sudden rain can feel quite romantic. Though often short and intense, a downpour doesn't have to interrupt your journey. So, what can you do during the rainy season? Why not try immersing yourself in an unforgettable experience by discovering the unique beauty of this country through the following interesting activities.

3.1. Treat yourself to a Vietnamese spa day

What could be better on a rainy day than unwinding with a deeply therapeutic massage? After exploring the city, a visit to one of Vietnam's top spas is the perfect way to recharge. You’ll find a wide range of services, from the unique traditional Red Dzao herbal massages to rejuvenating mud baths and soothing hot mineral springs.

Whether you're in bustling Ho Chi Minh City or the historic capital of Hanoi when it rains, a warm massage offers a wonderful escape from the drizzle and a chance to feel completely refreshed.

Discover a different side of Vietnam during the rainy season

3.2. Take a Vietnamese cooking class

Don't let a rainy day keep you from exploring Vietnam's world-famous cuisine. A cooking class is the perfect indoor adventure to truly dive into the unique flavors of this country. You won't just eat the food; you'll learn to prepare it yourself, mastering iconic dishes like savory Pho, delicious Bun Cha, or the rich specialties of a specific region. It’s an unforgettable, hands-on experience that you can take home with you, a new skill and a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese food.

Learning to cook Bun Cha

3.3. Explore museums and galleries

As a country with a long and storied history, Vietnam is home to countless museums and exhibitions that preserve the past and celebrate the present. From historical artifacts and wartime relics to captivating art, these indoor spaces are perfect havens on a rainy day.

Famous locations:

• Hanoi museums: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Vietnam Woman Museum, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Ho Chi Minh City museums: War Remnants Museum, Fine Arts Museum.
• Central Vietnam museums: Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, Hoi An's Museums for Heritage and Culture.

3.4. Go shopping at indoor markets & modern malls

On a rainy day, the best way to soak in the local atmosphere without getting soaked yourself is to head indoors. Vietnam's bustling indoor markets and modern shopping malls are the perfect escape from the drizzle, offering a lively and authentic cultural experience.

These vibrant hubs are more than just places to shop; they are where you can observe daily life, taste local delicacies, and find unique souvenirs—all from the comfort of being indoors.

Indoor markets: Explore famous traditional markets like Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi) or Han Market (Da Nang). Here, you can get lost in a maze of colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, local spices, clothing, and unique handicrafts.

See more: Top 10 famous markets in Da Nang to explore local hectic life

Modern shopping malls: For those who prefer a more contemporary shopping experience, major malls in cities like Ho Chi Minh City (e.g., Vincom Center, Saigon Centre) or Hanoi (e.g., Aeon Mall, Lotte Mall West Lake Hanoi) are the ideal spots. You can combine shopping with a movie, a delicious meal, or a coffee break, all under one roof.

3.5. Sip Vietnamese coffee and watch the rain

Vietnam’s coffee culture is famous worldwide for its bold and uniquely rich flavor. The country is one of the world's leading coffee producers, and its coffee is renowned for being robust, aromatic, and incredibly delicious. There's no better way to embrace a rainy day in Vietnam than by settling down with a cup of ca phe sua da (black coffee mixed with condensed milk and ice). The gentle sound of rain on the streets creates the perfect backdrop for a moment of quiet reflection. It's an ideal opportunity to people-watch, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and simply enjoy the moment.

Insider tip: If you’re having a custom-made Ao Dai tailored, this is also one of the most relaxing ways to pass the time while you wait for your outfit to be perfected.

Spend a rainy morning in Vietnam than with a warm cup of Vietnamese coffee

See more: From specialty coffee shops to coffee chains in Hanoi

3.6. Attend a Vietnamese traditional show

When a downpour arrives, it's the perfect cue to step indoors and immerse yourself in Vietnam's rich artistic heritage. Escape the rain by attending a traditional performance at a theater. From the whimsical movements of the famous Water Puppet Show to the breathtaking acrobatics of the A O Show, these performances offer a magical and unforgettable glimpse into the country's unique cultural traditions. For a deeper dive into Vietnamese folk art, you can also seek out Ca Tru (Ceremonial Singing) - an ancient form of chamber music.

A night of traditional Vietnamese Arts

3.7. Indulge in street food

A rainy day can be the best time to explore Vietnam's famous street food scene. The cool, damp weather creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making a hot bowl of noodles or a warm, savory pancake taste even better.

For a comforting and communal dining experience, consider gathering with friends to enjoy a classic Vietnamese hot pot. Dishes like a steaming bowl of Bun, Pho or a plate of crispy pancake also provide the perfect warmth and satisfaction. These authentic culinary moments are at the very heart of the Vietnamese experience and will make for some of your most memorable travel memories.

Nothing beats a warm bowl of Vietnamese noodles on a rainy day

3.8. Witness the "pouring water season" in Northern mountains

The rainy season offers a spectacular natural phenomenon you won't see at any other time of year. Around May and June, the local ethnic communities begin to bring water to their terraced rice fields in Sapa and Mu Cang Chai to prepare for a new crop. This creates a breathtaking sight where the fields become like giant mirrors, reflecting the sky and clouds in a truly magical landscape.

A truly unforgettable travel experience during the rainy season in Sapa

3.9. Explore the "floating season" in the Mekong Delta

From September to November, the Mekong Delta undergoes a magical transformation. Water from the upper Mekong River floods the fields, bringing abundant fish and creating a truly unique ecosystem. The peak of this season is typically in October (last month of the rainy season in Southern Vietnam), when the landscape is at its most stunning.

This is when the land and its people embrace a life on water. Especially in Tra Su Cajuput Forest, it's a chance to see the unique "green carpet" of duckweed that covers the water. Taking a boat trip during this "floating season" allows you to witness the vibrant local life on the water and explore a lush, tranquil landscape that feels worlds away from the city.

The enchanting Tra Su Cajuput Forest during the rainy season in Mekong Delta

3.10. Marvel at the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall

The later half of the rainy season is the ideal time to admire Vietnam's waterfalls. Abundant water from the upstream rivers makes waterfalls in the Central Highlands or Northern mountainous regions like Cao Bang more majestic and powerful than ever. Located in the northern province of Cao Bang, the massive Ban Gioc Waterfall is at its most powerful and beautiful during the monsoon. The increased water volume from the rains transforms the waterfall into a roaring spectacle, creating a mesmerizing scene of white foam and mist.

The lush, green surroundings become even more vibrant, making the landscape a photographer's dream. Visiting Ban Gioc during this period offers a truly unforgettable experience, allowing you to witness the immense power of nature in a way you simply can't during the drier months.

A magnificent view of Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang, Vietnam, during the rainy season.

4. Essential tips for Vietnam during the rainy season

With all the unique experiences that await, traveling to Vietnam during the rainy season is an adventure you won't regret if being well-planned. To ensure a smooth and worry-free trip, just keep these practical tips in mind:

• Stay informed: Always check the weather forecast and travel advisories before you go, especially if you plan to visit a mountainous or flood-prone area. Keep an eye on your flight or train schedules for any delays.
• Dress in layers: While the air can be humid, the temperature might drop slightly after a downpour. You should pack light, quick-drying clothes when traveling to Vietnam during the rainy season.
• Be prepared for sudden downpour: A waterproof backpack is a must-have to protect your belongings from getting wet. Don't forget to pack waterproof footwear and a small, foldable umbrella or poncho. Quick-drying clothing is also a great idea.
• Plan for delays: Heavy rain can lead to traffic jams in major cities. In mountainous regions, the risk of landslides can sometimes cause road closures. Be flexible with your schedule, and remember that some areas in Northern and Central Vietnam (like Hue and Hoi An) may experience temporary flooding.
• Book with a local tour company: For a completely stress-free trip, consider booking a tour with a local agency. They have the expertise to manage all logistics and handle any unexpected weather, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without a single worry.

A little preparation makes for a great adventure, rain or shine

Traveling to Vietnam during the rainy season is a unique and rewarding experience. While showers can be frequent, they are usually short and intense, with the sun often returning quickly. This season is also a blooming time for many plants, giving the country a magnificent and lush appearance. So don't hesitate to embark on this unforgettable journey.

Contact us to plan a tailor-made tour that fits your travel wishes and schedule!

See more:

• Vietnam with family: Itinerary & things to know before you go
• Best Mekong Delta Itinerary Travel Guide
• A Comprehensive 14-day Vietnam Itinerary from South to North