Climate and region of Dalat
Dalat, situated in the Central Highlands, enjoys a cooler climate compared to Vietnam’s coastal and lowland regions. While its wet and dry seasons align more with the south than with central Vietnam, its high altitude results in more noticeable temperature shifts. Unlike Ho Chi Minh City, which remains warm year-round, Dalat can feel quite crisp in December, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Dry season of Dalat (November – April): December is well into the dry season, bringing clear skies and refreshing air. The winter period makes the city cooler than other southern destinations, but it never gets too cold.
Rainy season of Dalat (May – October): The rainy season is long gone, and December is one of the driest months of the year. The cool, stable weather makes it an excellent time for outdoor activities.
Travel tip: Dalat’s climate differs from many other parts of Vietnam, so if you’re planning a multi-destination trip, check the best time to visit Vietnam to align your travels with the best weather conditions across the country.
Weather in Dalat in December
December is well into Dalat’s dry season, offering clear skies and cool mountain air. Temperatures range from 12°C to 23°C (54°F to 73°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Rainfall is minimal, averaging 10-30 mm, and humidity remains low, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Although December is one of the coolest months in Dalat, it never gets extremely cold, even at night. Compared to other destinations in southern Vietnam, where December is still warm, Dalat’s high altitude gives it a more refreshing, crisp winter feel. If you want to compare December with other months, read our guide to best time to visit Dalat.
Is Dalat worth visiting in December?
Yes, Dalat is worth visiting in December, and it is a very good month to go. The dry season is now in full swing, bringing clear skies, crisp air, and comfortable temperatures. Unlike many other destinations in Vietnam that remain warm, Dalat’s highland climate gives it a refreshing coolness, especially in the mornings and evenings. Outdoor activities are ideal, with dry conditions making it easy to explore the city and surrounding countryside.
The only downside is that waterfalls are no longer at their strongest due to the extended dry period. However, the pleasant weather and festive atmosphere of December, especially with Christmas and New Year celebrations, make up for this. If you prioritize stable weather over lush greenery and powerful waterfalls, December is an excellent time to visit Dalat.
Dalat Flower Festival
The Dalat Flower Festival is the city’s most anticipated event, held every two years in December, turning Dalat into a breathtaking floral exhibition. This festival celebrates Dalat’s flower industry, agricultural heritage, and natural beauty, with large-scale floral displays, artistic installations, street parades, and cultural performances.
Throughout December, visitors can see giant flower sculptures, themed gardens, and creative floral decorations at key locations such as Xuan Huong Lake, Dalat Flower Park, and central streets. Depending on the year, the festival may be held in early, mid, or late December, sometimes extending into January. Accommodations fill up quickly during this time, so booking in advance is highly recommended. For everything you need to know about this spectacular event, visit Guide to Dalat Flower Festival.
Christmas and New Year in Dalat
Although Christmas and New Year’s Eve are not traditional Vietnamese holidays, Dalat embraces the festive decorations and commercial aspects of the season. Shops, hotels, and restaurants often display Christmas lights, decorated trees, and themed ornaments, creating a holiday atmosphere that feels stronger here than in most other Vietnamese cities.
Dalat’s cooler temperatures and pine forests add a more traditional winter feel to Christmas, making it a unique place to experience the holiday in Vietnam. While the celebrations are more about decorations than cultural traditions, churches like Domaine de Marie and the Dalat Cathedral hold Christmas services for those interested.
For New Year’s Eve, fireworks are not guaranteed in Dalat, as they are not a major tradition like during Vietnamese New Year (Tet). However, depending on the year and local budget, fireworks displays may be organized. Dalat is not known for a huge party scene, but some bars and homestays host small New Year’s Eve gatherings, offering a more intimate and relaxed celebration compared to the big parties in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Best things to do in Dalat in December
Dalat takes on a special charm in December, as cool air, clear skies, and festive decorations create a unique atmosphere in the city. The dry season provides perfect conditions for outdoor exploration, while the blooming flower gardens and holiday celebrations add to the experience. Whether you’re drawn to Dalat’s landscapes, adventure sports, or coffee culture, December offers a fantastic seasonal twist to these activities. Below, we explore how this month shapes the city’s best experiences. For a full list of things to do, check out things to do in Dalat.
1. Exploring Dalat’s nature in the crisp winter air
Dalat’s landscapes in December are shaped by the cool and dry weather. The forests, hills, and lakes look stunning under the clear blue skies, and the visibility from viewpoints is excellent. While the waterfalls are not as strong as in the rainy season, the pleasant temperatures make exploring the countryside more enjoyable. The flower gardens, especially at the Dalat Flower Park, become more vibrant as the city starts preparing for its annual Flower Festival.
2. Outdoor activities in December
With stable weather, December is a fantastic month for outdoor activities. Trekking, mountain biking, and countryside exploration are ideal, as trails remain dry and easy to navigate. Canyoning is still possible, but the colder water may make it less appealing for some travelers. Camping is a great option for those who don’t mind the chilly nights, as the dry air and clear skies create perfect conditions for a cozy evening by the fire.
3. Exploring the festive food & coffee shop scene
December’s cool temperatures make Dalat’s cafés and food scene feel especially inviting. Warm drinks like hot cocoa and Vietnamese egg coffee are popular choices for escaping the crisp mountain air. Many restaurants and cafés decorate for the holidays, adding a festive touch to the experience. The night market is lively, offering hot grilled street food that’s perfect for the cooler evenings. Whether enjoying a hot cup of coffee with a view or indulging in a warming meal, December is a great time to explore Dalat’s culinary scene.
Travel tips for December in Dalat
To be well-prepared for a trip to Dalat in December, it’s important to pack for crisp, cool weather and be aware of increased visitor numbers due to Christmas and New Year holidays. While Dalat rarely sells out on accommodations, securing a preferred hotel in advance can be a good idea during the festive season.
What to bring
- Warm clothing – December is one of the coldest months in Dalat, with temperatures dropping to 12°C (54°F) or lower at night. Bring a sweater or jacket.C
- omfortable shoes – Dry conditions make this a great month for exploring.
- Moisturizer & lip balm – The air is dry, and skin can become rough.
- Sunscreen – Even in winter, UV exposure remains high.
- Scarf & gloves – Not necessary for daytime, but useful if planning early morning or late-night outings.
Accommodations and availability
December is high season, with visitors arriving for Christmas and New Year’s holidays. While accommodations are widely available, prices rise toward the end of the month. Booking early is advised, especially if traveling between December 24 and January 1. Resorts and higher-end hotels often sell out first, so reserving well in advance is the best way to secure a preferred stay.
