Climate and region of Ho Chi Minh City
To understand the weather in November in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s useful to first look at the broader climate of the region. Located in southern Vietnam, the city has a tropical monsoon climate, bringing warm temperatures all year and a distinct separation between dry and rainy periods.
- Dry Season: December to April
- Rainy Season: May to November
Travel tip: How November weather differs across Vietnam
South Vietnam in November begins transitioning into the dry season, with rainfall decreasing and humidity levels dropping. In contrast, central Vietnam remains in its rainy season, often dealing with flooding and storms, while northern Vietnam enjoys cool and dry autumn weather. This means the best travel conditions in Vietnam depend heavily on location.
Weather in Ho Chi Minh City in November
November marks the start of the dry season in Ho Chi Minh City, with less rain and more stable weather. Temperatures remain warm, with daytime highs of 31°C (88°F) and nights cooling slightly to 23°C (73°F). Rainfall drops to about 120 mm (4.7 inches) for the month, meaning showers become less frequent, and sunny days are more common. However, occasional rain is still possible, especially in the first half of November.
Compared to previous months, November feels much drier and more comfortable, making it one of the better times to visit. The Mekong Delta also begins to dry up, while coastal areas like Phu Quoc see improved beach conditions. By the end of the month, the transition to full dry-season weather is nearly complete, making it a great time to explore southern Vietnam.
You can also read our full overview of weather throughout the year in Ho Chi Minh City, in our guide what to expect in Ho Chi Minh City per month.
Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in November?
November is a good month to visit Ho Chi Minh City, as it marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. Rainfall is much lower than in previous months, and while occasional showers can still happen, they are far less frequent. Humidity also starts to drop, making the warm temperatures feel more comfortable for sightseeing.
As the dry season takes over, Ho Chi Minh City becomes a more pleasant destination to explore, with longer dry spells and clear skies. While it may not yet be as consistently dry as later months, November offers a good balance of manageable weather and fewer tourists compared to peak season. If you’re looking for warm but not extreme temperatures with less rain, November is a solid choice.
Special events & festivals in November
November does not have major public holidays, but it is still a culturally significant month in Vietnam. The Ooc Om Bok Festival, celebrated by the Khmer ethnic minority, takes place in parts of southern Vietnam, including a small community in Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, Vietnamese Teachers’ Day is observed this month, though it is not a public holiday.
Even without large national celebrations, local businesses and the expat community keep the city lively with various events, social gatherings, and international-themed activities throughout the month.
Ooc Om Bok Festival
The Ooc Om Bok Festival is a Khmer ethnic festival, who live primarily in southern Vietnam, including the Mekong Delta and small Khmer communities in Ho Chi Minh City. The festival, which takes place in November, is a prayer for a good harvest and prosperity.
The most famous event associated with Ooc Om Bok is the boat racing festival, which is most spectacular in the Mekong Delta, particularly in Soc Trang and Tra Vinh. In Ho Chi Minh City, celebrations are more subdued, but travelers might notice small gatherings in Khmer temples and communities, where traditional offerings and prayers are made.
Vietnamese Teachers’ Day
Vietnamese Teachers’ Day, celebrated on November 20, is a day when students show appreciation for their teachers with flowers, gifts, and thank-you messages. While this is not a public holiday, visitors might notice flower stands appearing across the city, and schools hosting small celebrations.
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in November
November marks the start of the dry season, bringing lower humidity, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rain, making it one of the best months for sightseeing. This is a great time to visit outdoor attractions like temples, markets, and rooftop bars without worrying about sudden downpours. Historical sites such as the War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace are ideal stops for learning about Vietnam’s past.
With pleasant weather, this is an excellent month for street food and motorbike tours, as well as exploring less-visited districts like Chinatown (District 5). Day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels, Tay Ninh Holy See, and the Mekong Delta are ideal, as the dry conditions make travel smoother. November is also a great time for evening experiences, such as a Saigon River dinner cruise or rooftop bars with panoramic city views.
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 November
Ho Chi Minh City is often just a starting point for exploring southern Vietnam, as many travelers continue to beach destinations, the Mekong Delta, or the Central Highlands. Understanding what November 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 November
November is one of the best months to visit the Mekong Delta, as the rainy season ends and dry, sunny weather returns. The water levels are still high, making it a great time to explore floating markets, boat trips through small canals, and the flooded forests of An Giang.
With comfortable temperatures and clear skies, this is an ideal time for cycling tours, visiting rural villages, and exploring fruit orchards. The Mekong Delta is especially lively as locals prepare for the upcoming dry season, and the landscapes remain lush and green from the past months of rain.
Phu Quoc in November
November is a transition month in Phu Quoc, as the rainy season comes to an end and the dry season begins. The first half of the month may still see occasional showers, but by the second half, rain decreases, and sunny days become more frequent.
By the end of November, Phu Quoc is once again an excellent beach destination, with calmer seas, warm temperatures, and great conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Since the peak tourist season hasn’t fully started yet, visitors can still find relatively fewer crowds compared to December and January.
Mui Ne in November
November marks the start of the dry season in Mui Ne, making it a great time to visit. The weather becomes sunnier, rain showers decrease significantly, and humidity levels drop, creating perfect conditions for beach activities and sand dune adventures.
This is also the beginning of the kiteboarding and windsurfing season, making Mui Ne a top choice for water sports enthusiasts. With clear skies and warm temperatures, November is one of the best months to visit Mui Ne before the busier holiday season in December.
Dalat in November
November is the start of the dry season in Dalat, making it one of the best months to visit. The rainy season has ended, and the landscapes are still green and fresh from the previous months of rainfall. With cool temperatures (14-24°C / 57-75°F) and clear skies, this is an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking, canyoning, and visiting waterfalls.
November is also a great time for photography, as misty mornings and golden sunlight create beautiful landscapes across the hills, valleys, and pine forests. With pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to December, this is a perfect time to explore Dalat before the peak holiday season.
Travel tips for November in Ho Chi Minh City
These travel tips will help you prepare for your trip to Ho Chi Minh City in November, taking seasonal factors into account.
What to pack
November marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. Rainfall is significantly less frequent, but humidity remains noticeable. Temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C, and the sun becomes stronger again. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against sun exposure. While the chance of rain is lower, carrying a small umbrella is still a good precaution.
Accommodations
November sees a small rise in international tourism, but it’s still not peak season, so accommodations remain widely available. If you’re looking for better hotel deals, this is one of the last months before prices increase for the high season. Booking in advance isn’t necessary, but if you have specific preferences, it’s always a good idea to secure your stay early.
Getting around Ho Chi Minh City
With the rainy season ending, walking becomes more comfortable, especially in the mornings and evenings. However, the city remains warm, so stay hydrated and take breaks indoors when necessary. Grab cars remain the most convenient option for longer distances, and with drier conditions, motorbike taxis become a more comfortable alternative again.
Health and safety
- Air Pollution – As the dry season starts, pollution levels may begin to rise again. If you are sensitive to air quality, checking daily air pollution updates can help you plan your activities.
- Heat – The weather is still warm, and sun exposure increases as rainfall decreases. Drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen, and wear light clothing to stay cool.
