Northern Vietnam climate
Before looking at the specific weather in April, it’s useful to understand the overall climate of Northern Vietnam. The region experiences distinct seasonal shifts, which affect temperatures and rainfall throughout the year.
- Dry Season: October – April
- Rainy Season: May – September
Northern Vietnam does not have a uniform tropical climate like the south. Instead, it has noticeable temperature variations throughout the year, with periods of cooler, hotter, and milder weather.
- Coldest months: December – February
- Hottest months: June – August
- Mild months: March – May, September – November
Travel Tip: Weather conditions vary greatly between Vietnam’s regions. While the north enters a transitional period in April, the south remains hot and dry, and central Vietnam experiences rising temperatures but still manageable conditions.
Weather in North Vietnam in April
April is still part of the dry season in northern Vietnam, but temperatures continue to rise, bringing noticeably warmer weather. In Hanoi and other lowland areas, daytime temperatures range from 22–29°C (72–84°F), while nighttime temperatures stay mild at 18–22°C (64–72°F). In the northern mountains, temperatures remain cooler but are generally comfortable, with daytime highs reaching 20–25°C (68–77°F) at lower elevations.
Rainfall starts to increase slightly, with an average of 50–100 mm (2–3.9 inches), but it is still far from the peak of the rainy season. Most rain comes in short, scattered showers rather than prolonged downpours. Humidity levels also begin to rise, making the air feel heavier, particularly in coastal areas like Halong Bay. While April remains part of the dry season, the gradual shift toward wetter conditions becomes more noticeable, especially toward the end of the month.
Rice fields in Northern Vietnam in April
April marks the start of activity in the northern highlands as ethnic farmers in Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, and Hoang Su Phi begin preparing the terraced fields for planting. While you won’t see lush green fields yet, you can witness the fascinating process of locals plowing the land and setting up irrigation. Meanwhile, in Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Pu Luong, the early-season rice crops that started growing in February and March are now reaching a beautiful green stage, making these some of the best places to visit for picturesque countryside views. The deeper into April you travel, the more stunning the fields appear.
A detailed guide about the best destinations and seasons: northern Vietnam rice terraces
Is April a good time to visit Northern Vietnam?
April is a very good month to visit Northern Vietnam, offering pleasant weather and increasingly beautiful landscapes. The temperatures are warm but not yet uncomfortably hot, making it one of the best months for trekking, motorbike trips, and cruises. While the rice terraces in the mountains are still being prepared, lower regions like Ninh Binh and Mai Chau are covered in vibrant green fields. Waterfalls still have decent water flow, and the dry season is coming to an end, meaning you get a mix of clear skies and fresh scenery. If you want to experience Northern Vietnam before the summer heat arrives, April is an excellent choice.
Best places to visit in April
April is a great month to visit Northern Vietnam, with pleasant temperatures, minimal rainfall, and vibrant landscapes. Below, we highlight some of the best destinations to visit this month, focusing on seasonal highlights. For a complete list of must-visit places in Northern Vietnam, check out our full travel guide: North Vietnam Travel Guide.
1. Pu Luong – Stunning Rice Field Views & Trekking
April is one of the best times to visit Pu Luong, as the rice terraces are lush green and stunning. The weather is warm but not too hot, making it ideal for trekking and exploring traditional villages. Compared to other destinations, Pu Luong offers a peaceful escape with fewer tourists.
2. Ha Giang – Perfect Motorbike Touring & Love Market
Ha Giang in April has comfortable temperatures, minimal rain, and clear skies, making it perfect for motorbike touring on the Ha Giang Loop. The landscapes are vibrant, and April often features the famous Khau Vai Love Market, a unique ethnic festival. Be sure to check the dates, as it requires a detour from the main loop.
For more details, check out our full guide: Ha Giang Loop in April.
3. Ninh Binh – Green Rice Fields & Perfect Weather
April in Ninh Binh is one of the best months to visit, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful green rice fields. The Trang An and Tam Coc boat rides are particularly scenic as the newly sprouted rice creates a vivid contrast against the limestone cliffs.
For more details, check out our full guide: Ninh Binh in April.
4. Mai Chau – Cycling Through Green Valleys
April is perfect for exploring Mai Chau by bicycle, as the valley is lush and green with growing rice fields. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the dry season is ending, meaning most days are still sunny and pleasant. The ethnic villages in the valley provide an authentic cultural experience.
For more details, check out our full guide: Mai Chau in April.
5. Halong Bay in April – Ideal for Cruising and Outdoor Activities
April offers warm temperatures and stable weather, making it one of the best months for cruising in Halong Bay. The sea is calm, and visibility is excellent, making it a great time for kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves. While it’s warm, it’s not yet as humid as the summer months, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
For more details, check out our full guide: Halong Bay in April.
6. Hanoi – Ideal City Exploration & Reunification Day
Hanoi in April has great weather for sightseeing, as temperatures are not too hot or cold. This is a good time to explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and historical sites. At the end of April, Vietnam celebrates Reunification Day (April 30), with public events and festivities.
For more details, check out our full guide: Hanoi in April.
7. Cao Bang – Vibrant Landscapes & Waterfall Views
April is an excellent time to explore Cao Bang, as the landscapes are lush and vibrant. While Ban Gioc Waterfall is smaller due to the dry season, the surrounding scenery remains breathtaking. There is a slightly higher chance of rain towards the end of the month, which helps restore water flow.
For more details, check out our full guide: Ban Gioc Waterfall in April.
8. Sapa – Trekking in Mild Weather
Sapa in April is warm and pleasant for trekking, making it a great time for hiking and exploring. While there are still no rice fields, the comfortable temperatures make it ideal for enjoying the mountain views and exploring ethnic villages.
For more details, check out our full guide: Sapa in April.
Events and holidays in April
April in Northern Vietnam is a month of historical and spiritual celebrations, with major festivals and national holidays. Some events, like the Hung Kings’ Festival and Reunification Day, are widely observed across the country, while others, like the Perfume Pagoda Festival and Thanh Minh (Holiday of the Dead), are more spiritual and locally celebrated. Below are the most notable events this month.
Holiday of the Dead (Thanh Minh)
When: Late March or early April (lunar calendar)
Where: Nationwide, mostly observed in cemeteries and family homes
Thanh Minh is a time for Vietnamese families to clean and honor their ancestors’ graves. It is not a public festival, but visitors in rural areas may notice families gathering at cemeteries with incense and offerings. While it does not affect travel or business operations, it is an important cultural tradition of respect for ancestors.
Perfume Pagoda Festival
When: From the 6th day of the 1st lunar month to the end of the 3rd lunar month (mostly February, March, April)
Where: Perfume Pagoda, near Hanoi
The Perfume Pagoda Festival is one of Vietnam’s largest Buddhist pilgrimages, drawing thousands of visitors to the scenic temple complex near Hanoi. The journey includes a boat ride along the Yen River and a hike or cable car ride to Huong Tich Cave, the main temple.
By April, the festival is nearing its end, meaning it is less crowded than in February or early March. This makes it a better time for travelers who want to experience the pilgrimage atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.
For more details, check out our full guide: Guide to Perfume Pagoda Festival.
Hung Kings’ Temple Festival
When: 10th day of the 3rd lunar month (usually in April)
Where: Phu Tho Province (main festival), with smaller celebrations nationwide
The Hung Kings’ Festival honors the legendary founders of Vietnam and is a national holiday. The main celebration takes place at the Hung Kings’ Temple in Phu Tho Province, featuring ceremonies, parades, and offerings. While the largest events are in Phu Tho, smaller ceremonies and celebrations happen across the country.
For travelers, it’s a great opportunity to witness Vietnamese national pride, but Phu Tho can be very crowded during this time. Hanoi also hosts official ceremonies and cultural performances.
For more details, check out our full guide: Hung Kings’ Festival.
Reunification Day
When: April 30th
Where: Nationwide
Reunification Day marks the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, celebrating the country’s reunification. It is a national holiday, with flags displayed everywhere and fireworks in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Some cities also have parades and official ceremonies.
Travel Tip: Reunification Day is part of a long holiday weekend, as it is followed by Labour Day on May 1st. If it falls on a weekend, the holiday shifts, creating one of Vietnam’s biggest travel periods. Many Vietnamese travel across the country, making destinations like Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, and Sapa significantly busier. Hanoi, however, tends to be quieter as locals leave the city.
If traveling during this time, read this guide: Reunification Day in Vietnam.
Travel tips for April in North Vietnam
April is a fantastic month to explore North Vietnam, with warm but not overly hot temperatures and increasingly clear skies. This is one of the last months before the summer heat and rainy season arrive. Here’s what you need to know for traveling in April.
- What to bring – Light, breathable clothing is best for daytime, but pack a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in the mountains. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are useful as the sun becomes stronger.
- Accommodation – April is a shoulder season, meaning you’ll find moderate tourist crowds. Prices for hotels are reasonable, but it’s still a good idea to book in advance, especially in Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, as domestic travel increases toward the end of the month.
- Homestays – This is one of the most comfortable months for staying in a traditional ethnic homestay, as temperatures are mild, and heating or cooling is rarely needed. It’s an excellent time to experience authentic local life without extreme weather conditions.
- Outdoor activities – April is great for trekking in places like Sapa and Ha Giang, with cool conditions and less fog than in earlier months. Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh offer excellent sightseeing weather, with clearer skies and calm waters.
FAQ about traveling in April
How warm is North Vietnam in April?
April is noticeably warmer than March, with temperatures in Hanoi ranging from 20–30°C (68–86°F). In the mountains (Sapa, Ha Giang), temperatures range from 15–25°C (59–77°F). Days are mostly warm, while mornings and evenings are still mild.
Does it rain a lot in North Vietnam in April?
Rainfall increases slightly compared to March, but it’s still not the wet season. Hanoi receives around 80mm (3 inches) of rain, usually in short showers rather than prolonged downpours. Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh remain excellent to visit, with mostly clear skies.
What should I wear in North Vietnam in April?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for daytime. A light jacket may still be useful for evenings in the mountains. If trekking, pack moisture-wicking clothes, as temperatures can get warm during the day. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended.
Is April a busy travel month in North Vietnam?
April is a shoulder season, meaning there are moderate crowds. It’s busier than March due to an increase in domestic travel, especially around the Reunification Day holiday (April 30), but still less crowded than summer months. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended for Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa.
Is April a good month for trekking in Sapa or Ha Giang?
Yes, April is great for trekking. The weather is comfortable, with warm days and mild nights. The rice terraces are not yet green, as planting begins in May, but the scenery is still beautiful, with blooming flowers in the valleys.
