Vietnam in January: Weather, Tips and More
Enjoy the ethereal beauty of the Sapa Valley, bask in the sun-drenched Phu Quoc island, and witness the cascading magnificence of the Elephant Waterfalls in Dalat during your trip to Vietnam in January. Northern Vietnam sees dry and cool weather during this time, which is perfect for sightseeing and activities like hiking and cycling. Central and Southern regions enjoy mild weather conditions for exploration and beach activities. January is also one of the best times to visit Vietnam for festivals and cultural celebrations.
- Harry Davies
- From Canada
Vietnam Weather in January
In January, Vietnam offers a diverse range of climates across its regions. Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and Sapa, is going through its winter, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), accompanied by occasional mist and drizzle. Although January is the peak winter season in Vietnam, the mild humidity makes it ideal for outdoor adventures such as trekking and cycling. Cities like Da Nang and Hoi An in Central Vietnam are transitioning from their wet season in January, which is marked by mild temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). Meanwhile, Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, enters the peak of the dry season with consistently high temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F).
For a detailed seasonal overview, read our article on the best time to visit Vietnam.
Weather in Vietnam in January - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 21 | 24 | 27 | 31 | 34 | 35 | 34 | 33 | 32 | 30 | 27 | 22 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 14 | 17 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 19 | 15 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 70 | 76 | 81 | 88 | 94 | 95 | 94 | 92 | 90 | 86 | 81 | 72 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 58 | 63 | 67 | 72 | 77 | 81 | 79 | 79 | 76 | 72 | 67 | 59 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 17 | 7 | 18 | 32 | 74 | 66 | 92 | 135 | 73 | 46 | 20 | 15 |
| Dec | Jan | Feb | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 22 | 21 | 24 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 15 | 14 | 17 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 72 | 70 | 76 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 59 | 58 | 63 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 15 | 17 | 7 |
Why Visit Vietnam in January
Vietnam in January offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and festive celebrations, making it an ideal time to visit.
- Fewer crowds in the north: Although January is considered the peak tourist season in Vietnam, the northern region tends to see significantly fewer crowds compared to the central and southern parts of the country due to its winter climate. This is the perfect opportunity to see the landmarks of the capital city of Hanoi or trek the Sapa Valley without the tourist crowds.
- Cultural celebrations: January mostly aligns with Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), the most important festival in Vietnamese culture. You can witness lively celebrations, colorful decorations, dragon dances, festive bazaars, and unique traditions like makeshift altars and fireworks in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You can also look forward to other popular festivals like the Sa Dec Flower Festival and Epizode Festival.
- Beach weather: January provides optimal conditions for water-based activities along Vietnam's stunning coastlines. With milder temperatures and less rainfall, you can explore pristine beaches such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, or Da Nang. Engage in thrilling adventures like snorkeling and diving, or simply relax by the shore, enjoying the beauty of the surroundings.
Where to go and what to do
Visiting Vietnam in January offers many diverse experiences that seamlessly flow from one to another.
January is an ideal time to visit Hoi An as the town is adorned with colorful lanterns for the Lunar New Year celebrations. The magical atmosphere created by the lantern-lit streets and traditional decorations adds an extra layer of charm to the already picturesque ancient town. It is also an excellent time to embark on hikes and treks in areas like Sapa. The cool and pleasant weather allows you to traverse terraced rice fields, visit ethnic minority villages, and even conquer the majestic Fansipan Mountain. The stunning landscapes and cultural encounters make for unforgettable adventures.
The central region is transitioning to the dry season during January, so you can snag good accommodation and flight deals in popular cities such as Hue and Da Nang. Southern Vietnam becomes a prime destination of Vietnam in January. The region experiences warm and dry weather during this time, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C and minimal rainfall. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities. A Southern Vietnam tour can take you to Ho Chi Minh City, where you can visit historical sites like the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels. Then, explore the picturesque Mekong Delta with its iconic floating markets. Finally, unwind in Phu Quoc Island, where you can enjoy water sports, relax on the beaches, and savor delicious seafood.
Need Help Planning Your January Trip To Vietnam?
Whether you're witnessing the joyous festivities of Tet, cruising through Ha Long Bay, trekking in Sapa, or indulging in the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, January presents an ideal window to discover the diverse and enchanting facets of Vietnam.
Let us help you plan your customized tour of Vietnam. Fill out our form, and we can get a tailored itinerary to make your dream trip to Vietnam a reality!
Related articles:
Vietnam in December
Vietnam in February
