Climate and region of Dalat
Dalat sits in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, a scenic region known for its rolling hills and temperate climate. Though geographically closer to Nha Trang than Ho Chi Minh City, its weather patterns resemble those of southern Vietnam. However, the high altitude brings more noticeable seasonal temperature changes, unlike the consistently warm conditions of places like Mui Ne and Phu Quoc.
Dry season of Dalat (November – April): This is the sunniest time of the year, with pleasant daytime temperatures. While the coolest period is behind, March still experiences refreshing mornings and evenings.
Rainy season of Dalat (May – October): Dalat’s wet season is milder than Vietnam’s coastal regions, with rains mostly arriving in short but intense bursts rather than all-day downpours.
Travel tip: Dalat’s weather patterns differ from many other popular destinations in Vietnam. If you’re combining Dalat with other places, check out the best time to visit Vietnam for a full overview.
Weather in Dalat in March
Dalat in March marks the late dry season, with temperatures gradually increasing to 13°C – 25°C (55°F – 77°F). The weather remains pleasant, with low humidity and minimal rainfall, averaging around 10-30 mm for the month. Mornings and evenings are still cool, but daytime temperatures start to feel warmer, though never reaching the intense heat found in Vietnam’s lowland cities.
Rain is still rare in March, making it a stable and dry period for travel. Compared to later months, the air remains crisp, and the sky is usually clear. As the dry season nears its end, occasional light showers may begin to appear, but they are not yet frequent. You want to know what to expect in other months? Read our guide about Dalat weather per month.
Is Dalat worth visiting in March?
Yes, Dalat is worth visiting in March, and it is a good month overall. The dry season is still ongoing, offering stable weather, warm days, and cool evenings. With minimal rain, outdoor activities like hiking, motorbike trips, and countryside exploration are all enjoyable. The landscapes are still scenic, though the forests and fields may not be as vibrant as they are during the wetter months.
One downside of March is that the waterfalls are at their weakest, and some may look less impressive. The city itself, however, remains lively with pleasant temperatures, making it a great place to escape the heat that starts to build up in Vietnam’s lowland regions. If you prioritize good weather and outdoor activities over lush greenery and strong waterfalls, March is still a solid choice for visiting Dalat.
Best things to do in Dalat in March
Dalat offers a combination of breathtaking nature, outdoor adventure, and a charming café and food scene that attracts visitors all year. March, as one of the last months of the dry season, brings great conditions for outdoor exploration, but at the same time, nature starts showing subtle signs of seasonal change. This month allows for a full range of activities, but each with its own seasonal variation. Below, we highlight how the time of year affects the top experiences in Dalat. For a complete list of things to do, check out things to do in Dalat.
1. Exploring Dalat’s nature in early spring
March sees the last stretch of the dry season, and while forests and hills still offer scenic views, the vegetation is not as lush as in the wet months. The waterfalls remain weak, with some barely flowing, making them less impressive than at other times of the year. However, flower gardens and parks start showing early signs of blooming as spring approaches, and the cool, fresh air makes nature walks particularly pleasant.
2. Outdoor activities in March
Outdoor activities in March remain enjoyable, with warm but not overly hot temperatures making it easy to spend long hours outside. Trekking and mountain biking conditions are still ideal, as trails remain dry and accessible. Canyoning remains an option, but with water levels still low from the dry season, some waterfalls used for rappelling might not be as exciting. Camping becomes a bit more comfortable than in previous months, as temperatures start to rise slightly, making nights less cold.
3. Exploring the refreshing food & coffee shop scene
With the weather warming up slightly, March is a great time to enjoy both hot and cold drinks at Dalat’s famous coffee shops. While cozy cafés remain a popular choice in the cooler mornings and evenings, the afternoons are perfect for sitting on an open terrace overlooking the hills with an iced coffee or fruit tea. Dalat’s fresh strawberries are in season during this time, making strawberry smoothies and desserts a refreshing treat. The night market continues to be a lively spot to try local specialties, from grilled meats to sweet snacks.
Travel tips for March in Dalat
March is a great time to visit Dalat, with fewer crowds than the previous months and plenty of opportunities to explore comfortably. To make the most of your trip, it’s useful to know what to pack and what to expect when booking accommodations.
What to bring
- Light jacket or sweater – Mornings and evenings are still cool, though slightly warmer than in January and February.
- Comfortable footwear – Perfect weather for long walks and hikes, so bring sturdy shoes for outdoor adventures.
- Sunscreen – The sun remains strong during the day, making sun protection necessary, especially for those riding motorbikes.
- Hat & sunglasses – With clear skies, having protection against the sun is helpful.
- Moisturizer & lip balm – Though the air is not as dry as in earlier months, it can still affect the skin.
Accommodations and availability
March is still high season in Dalat, but it is much easier to find accommodations compared to January and February. While some popular hotels and resorts may still book out in advance, there is usually a wide range of options available. Prices remain moderate, though not as inflated as during Tet. If you want to secure a hotel with the best location or views, booking a few weeks ahead is still recommended.
