Generally drier and more comfortable
Popular for sightseeing, with lower rainfall than the wet season. Expect busier dates and warm days.
Travel Information · Your first trip
Cambodia Weather & First-Trip Planning
Cambodia is warm year-round, but rain, heat and the kind of journey you want should shape when and how you travel.
Seasonal picture
There is no single perfect month for every traveller.
Very hot conditions
Plan temple visits and outdoor activity for cooler parts of the day, with regular shade and water breaks.
Wet or green season
Landscapes become lush, but heavy rain, flooding and disruption can affect roads, islands and outdoor plans.
The World Bank's Cambodia climate profile describes a monsoon-driven wet season from May to October, accounting for most annual rainfall. Local conditions vary between the capital, highlands, temple areas and coast.
Choosing when to travel
Match the season to the itinerary.
Dry-season journeys
Drier weather can make long sightseeing days and road journeys easier, especially for a first visit. The cooler part of the dry season is also popular, so book important flights and accommodation early rather than assuming availability.
Dry does not mean cool. Sun exposure and dehydration still matter.
Green-season journeys
Rain does not automatically ruin a visit, and the countryside can be especially beautiful. Keep plans flexible, protect electronics and documents, and check boat and road conditions before moving between destinations.
Coastal and island weather may be rougher than conditions inland on the same day.
Packing
Prepare for heat, rain, temples and insects.
Light, breathable clothing
Add a hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen and a refillable water bottle.
Quick-drying layers
A compact rain layer, waterproof pouch and footwear that copes with wet ground are useful.
Temple-ready coverage
Carry clothing that covers shoulders and knees for religious sites and dress respectfully in local communities.
First-trip routine
Do the simple preparation before departure.
- Check current entry rules and complete the official e-Arrival.
- Buy travel insurance that covers your activities and medical evacuation.
- Arrange a pre-travel health appointment ideally four to six weeks before travel.
- Save emergency numbers and insurer details offline.
- Download offline maps and confirm the first airport transfer.
- Keep passport copies separately from the original.
- Tell your bank you are travelling if required.
- Plan cash, cards and mobile data rather than relying on one method.
- Leave breathing room around ferries, flights and long road journeys.
- Check the latest forecast and official travel advice just before leaving.