Climate and region of Ho Chi Minh City
To better understand the weather in May in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s important to look at the city’s climate as a whole. The city lies in southern Vietnam and has a tropical monsoon climate, which results in warm temperatures throughout the year and a clear distinction between the dry and rainy seasons.
- Dry Season: December to April
- Rainy Season: May to November
Travel tip: How May weather differs across Vietnam
South Vietnam in May sees the beginning of the rainy season, bringing increased humidity and the first regular showers. In contrast, central Vietnam is now fully in its dry season, making destinations like Hoi An and Da Nang appealing, while northern Vietnam is moving into its hot summer months.
Weather in Ho Chi Minh City in May
May marks the start of the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City, with increasing humidity and more frequent rain showers. Temperatures remain high, with daytime highs around 34°C (93°F) and warm nights averaging 26°C (79°F). Rainfall rises significantly compared to April, with an average of 220 mm (8.7 inches) throughout the month. While it doesn’t rain all day, afternoon showers become more common, often lasting for an hour or two before clearing up.
Despite the rain, the city remains hot and lively, and most activities are still possible with proper planning. The Mekong Delta also begins to see more rainfall, while coastal destinations like Phu Quoc may start experiencing rougher seas. However, mornings are often sunny, and the rain provides a refreshing break from the heat.
You want to know what to expect in other months? Read our guide about Ho Chi Minh City weather per month.
Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in May?
May is not the best month to visit Ho Chi Minh City, as it marks the beginning of the rainy season, bringing higher humidity and more frequent showers. While the city remains lively and full of activities, afternoon downpours become more common. However, these rain showers are usually short-lived and rarely last all day, meaning there are still plenty of opportunities to explore during the drier parts of the day.
Despite the wetter conditions, Ho Chi Minh City remains a year-round destination. Unlike beach locations that rely on sunshine or mountainous regions that can be affected by landslides, the city continues to operate normally. Even when it rains, there are plenty of indoor attractions, from museums to bustling local markets and cafés, making it easy to enjoy the city’s culture regardless of the weather.
Did you know?
If Ho Chi Minh City is just one stop in your Vietnam itinerary, there’s no need to worry too much. Central Vietnam enjoys perfect beach weather in May, with sunshine and warm temperatures in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hoi An. Meanwhile, northern Vietnam sees the start of the rice-planting season in Sapa while Ninh Binh and Pu Luong has its first rice harvest.
Are you still in doubt if it is worth visiting? Read our guide about Ho Chi Minh City in the rainy season with tips, what to expect, and things to do.
Special events & festivals in May
May is a transitional month in Vietnam, with Reunification Day and International Labour Day creating one of the biggest holiday periods in the country after Tet. While the city itself does not host large-scale festivals this month, knowing about these national holidays is important for travelers, as they significantly impact tourism and transport. Additionally, Buddha’s Birthday, an important spiritual event, takes place in May, making temples and pagodas more active than usual.
Since May does not have many other major Vietnamese festivals, Ho Chi Minh City’s large expat and international community ensures that smaller cultural events, concerts, and themed nightlife gatherings can still be found throughout the month.
Reunification Day & Labour Day Holiday
Reunification Day marks the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 and the reunification of North and South Vietnam. It is held on April 30, but because it is directly followed by International Labour Day on May 1, it creates, together with the weekend, one of the biggest holidays for Vietnamese to travel that extend into the beginning of May.
For travelers, this means that popular destinations near Ho Chi Minh City, such as Vung Tau, Phu Quoc, and Dalat, become extremely crowded, and transportation hubs like airports and bus stations get very busy. Hotel prices rise, and flights and buses often sell out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Buddha’s Birthday
Buddha’s Birthday is a religious celebration honoring the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha. It follows the lunar calendar, so the exact date changes each year, but it generally falls in May. While this is not a public holiday in Vietnam, it is an important event for Buddhist temples and pagodas.
For travelers, this is not a festival you’ll see citywide, but if you visit temples and pagodas, you will notice an increase in activity. People come to pray, make offerings, and participate in Buddhist ceremonies. If you’re interested in experiencing local religious traditions, visiting temples like Vinh Nghiem Pagoda or Jade Emperor Pagoda during this time can provide a unique cultural insight.
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in May
May is the start of the rainy season, meaning high humidity and more frequent showers, often in the late afternoons. However, mornings and early afternoons are usually dry, making it a good time for sightseeing at places like the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral. Since temperatures remain high, indoor attractions such as museums, markets, and historic buildings offer a great way to explore the city while staying cool.
Street food tours and motorbike tours are still enjoyable, but it’s best to plan them before the usual afternoon rains. Local markets like Ben Thanh, Binh Tay, and An Dong provide shelter from the weather while offering an authentic glimpse into city life. For day trips, the Cu Chi Tunnels and Tay Ninh Holy See are still accessible, but the Mekong Delta starts seeing more rain, so it’s good to check conditions before planning a trip.
For a complete list of sights, activities, and travel tips, read our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.
Destinations around Ho Chi Minh City to visit in May
Ho Chi Minh City is often just a gateway to other destinations in southern Vietnam, as many travelers combine their trip with beach destinations, the Mekong Delta, or the Central Highlands. Understanding what May offers in these destinations can help determine whether Ho Chi Minh City is worth visiting this month. Below are the four most popular places to visit from the city.
Mekong Delta weather in May
May is a transition month in the Mekong Delta, as the dry season comes to an end and the rainy season slowly begins. Early in the month, the weather remains mostly dry, making boat tours and market visits easy to enjoy. However, as the month progresses, humidity increases, and occasional afternoon showers start to appear.
Despite this, May is still a good time to visit, as the rains are usually short and do not disrupt travel plans significantly. The start of the fruit season also makes this an exciting time to explore local orchards, as tropical fruits like mangoes, lychees, and durians come into season.
Phu Quoc in May
May marks the start of the rainy season in Phu Quoc, meaning higher humidity, occasional rain showers, and rougher seas. While the beginning of the month may still offer some sunny days, the weather becomes increasingly unpredictable toward the end.
For those specifically looking for a beach holiday, it may be better to consider central Vietnam destinations like Da Nang, Hoi An, or Nha Trang, where the dry season is just beginning. However, if visiting Phu Quoc, it’s still possible to enjoy the island, but it’s best to expect some rain and prepare for flexible travel plans.
Mui Ne in May
May is a transition month in Mui Ne, with the dry season coming to an end and humidity increasing. Early in the month, the weather is still mostly dry, making it a good time for beach activities and visiting the sand dunes. However, by the second half of May, there is a higher chance of short rain showers, usually in the afternoons.
Although Mui Ne is not the best destination for a dedicated beach holiday in May, it can still be included as a short stop when traveling between Ho Chi Minh City and central Vietnam. If you’re looking for more reliable beach weather, heading north to Da Nang or Nha Trang is a better option.
Dalat in May
Dalat in May is a beautiful time to visit, as the city enters a transition period between dry and rainy seasons. The weather remains mild, with temperatures between 18-26°C (64-79°F), and early in the month, the conditions are still mostly dry. As the rainy season starts later in the month, there may be some afternoon showers, but these are usually brief and do not significantly affect outdoor activities.
Nature in Dalat is at its most vibrant in May, with lush green hills, blooming flowers, and flowing waterfalls. It’s a great month for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and visiting waterfalls, as temperatures are not as hot as the lowlands. Even if some rain occurs, Dalat remains a great destination to visit year-round.
Travel tips for May in Ho Chi Minh City
These tips will help you prepare for your visit to Ho Chi Minh City in May, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.
What to pack
Light, breathable clothing is necessary, but it’s also important to bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket for sudden showers. Water-resistant footwear can be useful, especially towards the end of the month when rains become more frequent. Sunscreen and sunglasses are still essential for sunny periods.
Accommodations
May is part of the shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists compared to earlier months. While accommodations remain widely available, some spring holiday travelers from Europe may still visit, especially in early May. You’ll likely find more flexibility with hotel bookings, but if you prefer a specific place, it’s still a good idea to book ahead.
Getting around Ho Chi Minh City
The increasing humidity makes walking for long periods uncomfortable, so plan indoor breaks when sightseeing. Ride-hailing services like Grab are still the most convenient way to get around. Since sudden showers can happen, carry a foldable rain jacket or umbrella. If using motorbike taxis, a rain poncho is useful in case you get caught in the rain.
Health and safety
Air Pollution – Rain helps improve air quality compared to previous months, but traffic pollution remains an issue. The air is noticeably clearer after a rain shower.
Heat – May is still hot and humid, so drink plenty of water and avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest part of the day. Air-conditioned cafés and shopping malls provide good relief.
