Vietnam stretches over 1,600 kilometers from north to south, covering a wide range of latitudes, elevations, and coastal terrain. This geographical diversity results in distinct regional climates, which travelers should consider when planning a cycling trip.
Southern Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc
Southern Vietnam has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry (December to April) and wet (May to November). Temperatures are warm year-round, typically ranging from 28°C to 35°C. The dry season, especially from December to March, is the best time to cycle here, offering sunny skies and manageable humidity.
During the rainy season, expect short but heavy showers—often in the late afternoon—which can interrupt long rides but rarely last all day. The lush green landscapes during this time, especially in the Mekong Delta, are a treat for those who don’t mind the occasional rain.
Northern Vietnam – Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Ninh Binh
Northern Vietnam experiences four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cool or even cold in the mountains, with temperatures dropping below 15°C. Spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for cycling, especially in the hills and countryside, thanks to mild temperatures (20–28°C) and lower humidity.
Summer (May to August) is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. While cycling is still possible, especially early in the day, routes in higher elevations like Sapa or Ha Giang are more comfortable due to cooler mountain air.
Central Vietnam – Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Quy Nhon
The central region has a unique weather pattern. The dry season generally runs from February to August, with hot, sunny days and temperatures reaching 35°C or more in May–July. This is a great time to cycle the coast or explore rural backroads near Hoi An and Hue.
The rainy season arrives later than in the south, typically from September to January, often bringing typhoons and prolonged downpours in coastal areas. During this time, cycling tours may be affected, especially in October and November.
Best Time to Cycle in Vietnam
- North: March–April, September–November ✅
- Central: February–August ✅
- South: December–March ✅
While cycling is possible year-round with flexibility and support, early morning starts, van support, and weather-aware route planning are key for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Vietnam weather by month
| Month | North Vietnam (Hanoi) | Central Vietnam (Hue / Danang) | South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) | Sunny Days (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | ✔️ Cool, dry (15–22°C) | ✔️ Mild, dry (19–25°C) | ✔️ Warm, dry (25–32°C) | ✔️ 20–25 |
| February | ✔️ Cool, dry (16–23°C) | ✔️ Mild, dry (20–27°C) | ✔️ Warm, dry (26–33°C) | ✔️ 22–25 |
| March | ✔️ Mild, dry (18–26°C) | ✔️ Warm, dry (22–30°C) | ✔️ Hotter, dry (27–34°C) | ✔️ 23–26 |
| April | ⚠️ Warm, occasional rain (22–30°C) | ✔️ Hot, dry (25–33°C) | ⚠️ Hot, start of rains (28–35°C) | ⚠️ 18–22 |
| May | ⚠️ Hot, rainy (25–33°C) | ⚠️ Hot, rainy (27–35°C) | ❌ Very hot, rainy (28–36°C) | ⚠️ 14–18 |
| June | ❌ Hot, humid, rainy (27–35°C) | ❌ Hot, humid, rainy (28–36°C) | ❌ Hot, frequent rain (27–35°C) | ❌ 10–14 |
| July | ❌ Hot, rainy (28–35°C) | ⚠️ Hot, beginning of dry season (29–36°C) | ❌ Rainy, humid (27–34°C) | ❌ 10–13 |
| August | ❌ Hot, rainy (27–34°C) | ⚠️ Hot, occasional rain (28–35°C) | ❌ Rainy, hot (27–34°C) | ❌ 10–13 |
| September | ⚠️ Warm, less rain (25–32°C) | ❌ Rainy season (26–32°C) | ❌ Rainy season (26–32°C) | ⚠️ 12–16 |
| October | ✔️ Cooler, dry (22–30°C) | ❌ Heavy rains, storms (24–30°C) | ⚠️ Less rain, warm (25–32°C) | ⚠️ 16–20 |
| November | ✔️ Cool, dry (18–26°C) | ⚠️ Rainy, cooler (22–27°C) | ✔️ Dry, pleasant (24–31°C) | ✔️ 20–24 |
| December | ✔️ Cool, dry (15–22°C) | ✔️ Mild, dry (20–26°C) | ✔️ Warm, dry (24–31°C) | ✔️ 22–26 |