Mekong River weather: Things you should pay attention to

Before traveling, everyone must reference the weather forecast so that their trip will be convenient and memorable. In fact, the forecast is not always accurate, making you unable to adapt to the situation.

With the river and tree terrain, this problem in the Mekong River is even more challenging.

If you are planning to go to the Mekong River, we recommend that you shouldn't skip the helpful tips below. It's not just about the best time to get here, but it also guides you on how to enjoy the trip even in bad weather.

Let's dig into it!

Weather in the Mekong River

The Mekong is a vast delta region located in Asia, flowing through China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia before entering Vietnam. Therefore, this area is strongly influenced by the tropical monsoon climate, making it hot and humid all year round.

The uplands (Lao PDR and Cambodia) receive the most precipitation (3,000 mm) and the semi-arid Khorat Plateau in northeast Thailand has the least (1,000-1,600 mm).

The Mekong River uplands

In the Upper Basin, annual rainfall can be as little as 600 mm in the Tibetan Plateau and as much as 1,700 mm in the mountains of Yunnan.

The temperature in the Mekong region in Southeast Asia is generally warm during the year and often fluctuates between 23°C (74°F) and 32°C (89°F).  Because of the tropical climate and the yearly monsoon cycle, this area has two separating seasons, including the wet and dry season.

Best time to cruise to the Mekong River

The best time to go to Mekong River is the dry season. This season lasts from November until the end of April. However, the ideal period is still from November to January when the rainy season has just ended, and the weather is not too hot.

You won't have to sit in a boat all day because of the rain. In contrast, that is the bustling scene of the locals preparing for a new year.

Besides, the summer, from June to August, is also the season of fruits and agricultural products. Coming here, you will enjoy the specialties of the river and gardens like tropical fruits, fish, shrimps, birds, etc. Participating in fishing, picking fruit, or watching traditional art performances will be a memorable experience for you.

At the end of August, there may be a lot of rain, but you don't need to worry too much because the rain usually falls in the afternoon and for about 1 hour.

The flooding season in the Mekong River

Although the dry season is more recommended, the rainy season has its own exciting and unique features. This is the best time for yachts to take you deeper into flooded forests, floating markets and observe people's daily life, which is believed to be the most vibrant in the flood season.

What to explore on a Mekong River cruise tour

Local life

The Mekong River cruises are the best way for you to observe the river life of the local people. You will be able to go through rice fields, floating villages, go biking on fruit-laden islands, or visit famous temples, etc., meet and talk with friendly fishermen.

Floating markets

Considered as the spirit of the Mekong River Basins, floating markets are really worth visiting during your trip to any country in Indochina thanks to its unique beauty. You will have countless unforgettable memories here such as buying fruits or eating "hu tieu" (Southern-style Pho) on the river, watching the bustling trading scene, etc.

Charming destinations

Visiting the great Angkor complex

Joining the Mekong cruise tour, you will have the opportunity to visit many famous spots between Cambodia and Vietnam such as Angkor Complex, Royal Palace, Tonle Sap, etc.

If you don't have much time, then you should spend 4 or 5 days on a Mekong River cruise to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to sail closer to the local villages and traditional workshops in Vietnam and explore the bustling Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

Also, don't forget to read things you need to know about Mekong Delta travel.

What to pack

• If traveling to the Mekong River, you should not bring too many clothes and other items because it will be very difficult to move, especially when you want to buy fruits and specialties to carry home.

• You should not bring expensive belongings. Electronic and technological appliances such as cameras, phones, or music players, etc. should be kept in the safest place of the luggage. Besides, you should prepare a waterproof bag for them.

• There are many places in Mekong River where ATMs are available for withdrawals, so you just need to bring enough cash to avoid theft.

• The temperature of the Mekong River is relatively comfortable, so there is no need to bring too many warm and thick clothes. You only need a long-sleeved shirt or a thin jacket, windbreaker, etc. In particular, avoid wearing white or light-colored materials.

• You should also choose easy, comfortable footwear to easily move up and down the boats and islands such as rubber sandals, slippers, waterproof shoes, etc. Hats and sunscreen are also essential to avoid the sun.

• You need to bring mosquito repellent because this place is famous for having lots of mosquitoes.

What to wear in the Mekong River

Your trip to the Mekong River will be perfect if you choose a reasonable time to come here. If you need further information about the Mekong Delta tours, feel free to contact us. Don’t hesitate to like and share the article with others if you find it useful for you. Thank you.