Vietnam Weather in May

In May, Vietnam is generally scorching, with frequent rainfall and high humidity across the country. These weather conditions collectively lead to off-peak travel season.

Blistering Heatwaves

In May, temperatures are high throughout almost the entire country. In the north, with Hanoi as a representative example, the daytime highs hover between 30 and 36 degrees Celsius (86 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit), and the nighttime lows remain stable at 22 to 28℃ (72 to 82℉). Looking at the south, for example in Ho Chi Minh city, the daytime highs are stable at 32 to 37℃ (90 to 99℉), and the nighttime lows remain at 26 to 29℃ (78 to 84℉).

When strolling through the streets of either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city around the noon, the sun’s fierce rays can create an intense burning sensation on your skin. Therefore, to ensure a comfortable journey, it is advisable to set out early in the morning or late in the afternoon. When venturing out, wearing quick-drying clothing is recommended to prevent discomfort from sweat clinging to your skin.

Rain-dampened Vietnam

Average precipitation: 156mm from 14 rainy days

May is a period with high rainfall in Vietnam. For example, Ho Chi Minh City experiences up to 18 rainy days with total monthly rainfall exceeding 200 mm. Given that the rainfall often manifests as brief but intense downpours or thunderstorms, which can instantly soak the street, it is advisable to find a safe place to shelter during heavy rain and wait for it to weaken or stop before continuing your journey.

More challengingly, this weather pattern is difficult to predict. For example, it might be completely clear in one moment, but suddenly heavy rain pours down; also, it might be sunny here but heavily rainy just one block away. Therefore, no matter how clear the sky looks when you depart, it is essential to carry rain gear.

Averages for Vietnam Weather in May

High Temperature

33°C (91.4°F)

Low Temperature

25°C (77°F)

Rainfall

156 mm (6.1 in)

Sunrise

05:15 ~ 05:26

Sunset

18:21 ~ 18:34

Jan.Feb.Mar.Apr.May.Jun.Jul.Aug.Sep.Oct.Nov.Dec.

The times for sunrise and sunset are based on Hanoi.

Is May a Good Time to Travel to Vietnam?

May is not the ideal time for traveling as it is hot and often rainy.

But from another perspective, this kind of weather makes it the off-season, except for the beginning of May when there might be a short busy holiday; and there are actually some advantages traveling in the off-season: fewer tourists, no need to push and shove, no need to fight for camera positions, and a more peaceful experience; moreover, accommodation and air tickets price is lower, which can save a lot of expenses.

However, it’s important to plan your itinerary well: go out in the relatively cooler morning or late afternoon, check the weather forecast in advance and adjust your route flexibly. Only in this way can you enjoy the benefits of the off-season while minimizing the trouble caused by the hot and rainy weather.

Packing List for Visiting Vietnam in May

Clothes: Under normal circumstances, you only need to prepare summer clothing such as breathable short-sleeved T-shirts, skirts, dresses, light trousers and shorts. Considering the frequent rainfall and high humidity, quick-drying clothes are essential. In addition, if you are worried about the air conditioning in the room being too cold, it is recommended to bring a light jacket as a precaution.

Shoes: When it doesn’t rain, light sports shoes and casual shoes are both suitable. When it rains, it is more recommended to wear anti-slip slippers, sports sandals or water-wading hiking shoes. Note that try to choose dark-colored and dirt-resistant ones, because light-colored shoes are easily splashed and dirtied in the rain, increasing the trouble of cleaning.

Travel Recommendations in May 2026

In May, when traveling to Vietnam, apart from the popular destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you can also visit the following places that offer unique experiences.

Summer Resort - Sapa

Sapa is a good destination in May. Firstly, located at a high altitude, the region maintains a maximum temperature of no more than 32℃ (90℉), offering a significantly cooler and more comfortable climate compared to the oppressive heat experienced in lowland plains. Secondly, this period coincides with the irrigation phase of the terraced fields, during which the flooded fields form mirror-like surfaces that clearly reflect the sky’s shifting clouds and natural light. This is a unique scene that is hard to replicate in other months.

Firefly Paradise - Cuc Phuong National Park

When visiting Vietnam in May, don’t miss the firefly spectacle at Cuc Phuong National Park, located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southwest of Hanoi. The warm and humid weather in May is perfect for fireflies to be active and reproduce. Every night, the forest is gradually illuminated by countless fireflies, creating a romantic and soothing atmosphere that is hard to find in other places.

Tips

1. In addition to umbrellas and raincoats, it is essential to prepare waterproof phone pouches and waterproof backpacks to securely store personal belongings, thereby protecting them from moisture and potential damage during rainy conditions.

2. A portable towel should be carried at all times, as it serves the dual purpose of wiping sweat during hot weather, as well as drying water stains in rainy conditions.

3. Avoid taking motorcycle taxis on rainy days as slippery roads can easily cause accidents. Also, remember to check the weather forecast before going out: avoid strong rainfall periods and do not go to coastal, low-lying, or mountainous areas if there is a heavy rain.

4. In hot and humid weather, not only avoid prolonged sun exposure and replenish water in time, but also keep in mind that mosquitoes breed easily - so remember to carry mosquito repellent with you.

5. After a heavy rain, don’t go to waterlogged places in case of unseen danger underwater and stay away from utility poles and exposed wires.

May Weather of Major Vietnam Cities

May	Temperature		Sunrise / Sunset	Humidity (%)
	Temperature
	High	Low
Can Tho	34°C/ 93.2°F	23°C / 73.4°F	07:25/ 17:32	44
Da Lat	33°C / 91.4°F	23°C / 73.4°F	07:20/ 18:07	84
Da Nang	33°C / 91.4°F	22°C / 71.6°F	07:56/ 18:38	79
Ha Long	30°C / 86°F	15°C / 59°F	07:45/ 18:30	83
Haiphong	29°C / 84.2°F	14°C / 57.2°F	07:08/ 18:13	72
Hanoi	33°C / 91.4°F	23°C / 73.4°F	07:23/ 18:22	73
Ho Chi Minh City	31°C / 87.8°F	23°C / 73.4°F	07:41/ 18:34	79
Hoi An	30°C / 86°F	22°C / 71.6°F	06:51/ 17:35	75
Hue	30°C / 86°F	17°C / 62.6°F	06:58/ 16:36	72
Lao Cai	29°C / 84.2°F	24°C / 75.2°F	07:44/ 17:48	57
Nha Trang	30°C / 86°F	15°C / 59°F	07:03/ 18:11	74
Phan Thiet	30°C / 86°F	19°C / 66.2°F	06:56/ 17:43	65