How to Plan an Incredible Family Trip to Japan in 2023/2024. Learn more.
Best & Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia 2023/2024, Rainy Season...

Best & Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia 2023/2024, Rainy Season...

By Ruby ZhaoUpdated Sep. 12, 2023

Southeast Asia now reopens to travelers. It lies within the tropics, with southern areas close to the equator, and so it's warm all year round. Average temperatures are around 27°C (80°F).

The climate varies significantly across the region of Southeast Asia. This makes it a year-round travel destination. The best time to visit will really come down to which country you would like to visit and what you want to do.

Generally speaking, the best time to visit most places in Southeast Asia is from November to February when the weather is dry (driest) and warm (on average). Wet-season monsoon rains fall from June to October in most SE Asian countries.

Southeast Asia Weather Guide

Elephant Rescue Park in Chiangmai Elephant Rescue Park in Chiangmai

Not all countries in Southeast Asia share the same seasons at the same time. There are some regional differences. They are roughly divided into two weather patterns.

There are three main seasons in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines:

  • Dry season: November to February
  • Hot season: March to May
  • Rainy season: June to October

There are two main seasons in Malaysia, Indonesia (Bali), and Singapore:

  • Dry season: April to September
  • Rainy season: October to March

Most travelers choose to visit mainland Southeast Asia during its dry season as it's not so hot with little rain. The weather in the hot season, consistently getting to around 38°C (100°F), and the rainy season is not so good, but you will find fewer crowds and lower prices for flights and accommodation.

Monsoon Season in Southeast Asia: Good to Travel or Not? >>>
How to Plan a Trip to Singapore and Bali >>>
How to Plan a Multi-Generational Family Vacation to Southeast Asia
Travel to Southeast Asia in Summer: Places to Go, Costs, Weather

The Best Southeast Asia Tour for First-timers

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Best Times for Beaches in Southeast Asia

  • Thailand and Vietnam: November to early April
  • Indonesia and Malaysia: April to October
Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam

If you hope to enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the sea, generally speaking, the best time to visit Southeast Asia's beaches is from November through early April when the weather is usually sunny and dry, and it's not too hot or too cool. The beaches in many countries, such as Thailand and Vietnam, are at their best during this period.

But if you would like to enjoy your beach vacation in Indonesia (like in Bali) or Malaysia's east coast (like on the Perhentian Islands or Tioman Island), the best time to go is between April and October.

If you're traveling to the beaches during the wet season, you should expect some rainy days, but there will also be days where it only rains for a short while and then the sun comes out. You'll find that hotel and resort prices are considerably cheaper during the rainy season.

Suggested read: Itinerary ideas for 10 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks & 6 weeks in Southeast Asia>>>

Recommended Itinerary

Best Times to Avoid the Crowds

Visiting Angkor Wat Early to Avoid the Crowds Visiting Angkor Wat Early to Avoid the Crowds

The Peak Season: November to February

It is a great time to travel in the most popular north of Southeast Asia from November to February — except for the crowds. During this time, go to the busy places, such as the Grand Palace in Thailand and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, as early or late in the peak season as you can.

Southeast Asia is a dream destination if you would like to experience a warm Christmas/New Year trip. One thing to note is to try to book as early as possible. Popular hotels and flights are usually booked up 3-6 months in advance. See the Ultimate Guide to Spending Christmas / New Year Holidays in Southeast Asia.

Check out more on our Best Times to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia, and Thailand and Vietnam.

The Off-season: March through October

March to May is the hot season and June to October is generally considered to be the wet season in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. The weather conditions are not exactly ideal, but you can expect fewer crowds.

It is common to have daily rain in the wet season, but as the rain is so predictable (it usually rains in the afternoon and at night), it's easy to plan around the weather. This means there's not so much of a problem in traveling to Southeast Asia during the off-season, as long as you know what to expect and plan well. For dry experiences, you could visit Singapore and Bali, which enjoy the best time from May to October.

A 2-Week Vacation including Peaceful Vietnam and Colorful Thailand

Worst Times to Visit Southeast Asia

As mentioned above, there will be some discomfort or inconvenience if you travel in the hot and monsoon seasons.

If you are particularly concerned about the weather, we would like to advise that the least recommended times to visit northern Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Philippines) are their hottest month of April and their wettest month of September, averaging over 300 mm (12 inches) of rainfall.

However, these worst times for the travel trade have benefits. You can enjoy very reasonable price and less-crowded beaches and temples. 

Get some itinerary ideas about 5 weeks in Southeast Asia >>>

The best private tour for couples to experience the most beaufitul Thailand and its hidden treasures.
Luxury Mekong Cruise between Vietnam and Cambodia

Best Times to Visit Different Countries in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a large region. It is warm all year round. No matter when you visit, you will find a place that matches your interests and preferences.

best time to visit southeast asia

Click the country name below to check the best travel time.

  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Singapore
  • Cambodia
  • Myanmar
  • Laos
  • Malaysia
  • Indonesia

Best Times to Visit Thailand

Generally, the most popular time to visit Thailand is between November and early April when it is the cool and dry season. Northern and Southern Thailand experience different climates.

Southern Thailand:Southern Thailand is a perfect destination if you are looking for an excellent vacation on beautiful beaches, such as Krabi, Phuket, and Phi Phi on the west coast, or Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui on the east coast. The best time to visit Southern Thailand is from February to April when the weather is nice and sunny.

Northern Thailand:If you are going to visit Northern Thailand – including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukhothai, and Pattaya – you can consider visiting from October to January.

Recommended Itinerary

Southeast Asia Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

January Travel in Southeast Asia

January is one of the most popular travel periods for Southeast Asia. It's warm and dry in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Philippines, with temperatures hovering between 20°C (68°F) and the low 30s °C (86+°F) in most places.

Many visitors choose to spend their Christmas and New Year holidays on the sunny beaches. Diving and snorkeling are at their best during this period. Avoid the east coast of Malaysia and Bali, though, as it's the rainy season peak there.

You might like to join in Lunar New Year celebrations in (the Chinatowns of) these countries. In 2023, Lunar New Year is observed on January 22nd.

Diving, Snorkeling and Water Sports in Thailand >>>

The Best Southeast Asia Tour for First-timers

Travel in Southeast Asia Your Way

Southeast Asia is a beautiful year-round destination and you're bound to have a good time no matter when you visit. We take everything, including the weather, into consideration when designing the best possible itinerary for you.

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
Popular tours
Make the most of your time
Choose the best time to visit

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

We are here to help you...
Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create My Trip
4.9 ExcellentTrustPilot rating TrustPilot Logo

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

The Asia Highlights Experience

1-to-1 Expert Planning

1-to-1 Expert Planning

Your tour will be tailor-made to suit you by a destination expert. Your personal travel advisor will always reply within 24 hours.

Personal Journeys

Personal Journeys

Enjoy having your own personal local guide and ride. Explore destinations at your own pace. Have as much flexibility as possible.

Authentic Experiences

Authentic Experiences

Go beyond the sightseeing. Understand the destinations by practicing the local culture and interacting with local people.

One-Stop Service

One-Stop Service

Leave all the booking work to us, including international and internal transportation, visas, hotels, meals, and activities.

Where Can We Take You Today?

About Us
At Asia Highlights, we are committed to providing you a premium, quality private tour, whether it's a milestone trip, family trip, or bucketlist trip — your planning will be made easy with just one specialist throughout. Know more ...
Rated 4.9 out of 5 | Excellent
China Highlights International Travel Service Co., LTD
Corporate Number: 914503003486045699
Featured on
Medias