Weather in Vietnam in March

Characterized by three different seasons that differ across the country, Vietnam has quite the complex weather pattern. It is equatorial in the south, as the south is closest to the equator. However, it is elongated in a north-south direction, which means north Vietnam sees much cooler temperatures. This complicated pattern is observed in the weather in Vietnam in March.

Read on to know about the weather in Vietnam in March and decide the best time for your holiday. 

Vietnam has tons to see but has a challenging weather pattern to navigate- Photo Credit Constant Loubier

Weather in North Vietnam in March

(Sapa, Ninh Binh, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Cat Ba)

The weather in North Vietnam in March is similar to the weather in February. Rainfall is sparse, and average temperatures hover at 19 °C. The sun is out almost always, and skies remain clear. While temperatures are on the rise in Sapa and the mountains, it is still very pleasant. Trekking conditions are at some of their best. 

Halong Bay is on good behaviour as well – the fog that shrouds the karsts in the months of January and February is nowhere to be seen. The higher temperatures mean the water temperature is good for a swim. Additionally, this is shoulder season, so you will find cheaper cruises and discounts. 

The weather in North Vietnam in March treats you to views like this- Photo Credit Jack-young

Weather in Central Vietnam in March

(Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang)

The weather in Central Vietnam in March makes it a summer paradise. Average temperatures are around 28°C, and low humidity means the weather is fairly dry. This makes it perfect to laze around on one of the beaches near Nha Trang and Da Nang. The dry weather is ideal to visit the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and its breathtaking caves. Water activities are a must for adventure lovers. 

Head to Da Lat and the central highlands if the heat bothers you. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, the weather here is pleasant year round. Additionally, while April is the best month to see the rice paddies transform from green to gold around Hoi An, you can still observe the lush green around you in March. 

The weather in Vietnam in March is perfect for treks and hikes- Photo Credit Thanh Tran

Weather in South Vietnam in March

(Phu Quoc, Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City)

While February is ideal to explore the entire country, the rising temperatures of the weather in Vietnam in March may deter a few. However, temperatures only peak in the South towards the end of March or in April. Average temperatures hover at 29 °C. 

The weather continues to remain dry and it is a good time for adventure activities like sandboarding at Mui Ne. It is also a good time to take a street food tour in culinary capital Ho Chi Minh City or visit the Mekong Delta. Lastly, Phu Quoc island is great to visit as its beach resorts are in full swing. 

Weather in South Vietnam in March is ideal for a visit to the Mekong Delta- Photo Credit Tomáš Malík

Festivals in Vietnam in March

Phu Giay Festival

A regional festival celebrated in the Nam Dinh province, Phu Giay is also known as the Phu Day Festival. It is celebrated from the 3rd to the 8th day of the third lunar month, falling in March or April. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Lieu Hanh of the Phi Giay Pagoda. The highlight of the festival is the big procession that happens on the 5th or 6th day. 

Alongside the procession, you will also witness games like human chess and lion dances, as well as performances of classical songs and folk dances. The Phu Giay festival in 2021 will be from April 14 to April 19.

The lion dance is said to bring good luck and fortune- Photo Credit Thomas Galvez

Vietnam may seem daunting because of the chaotic weather pattern, but trust us – it is a fantastic country. All you need to do is understand the weather in the month of your travels and plan accordingly. It is great for backpackers, as well as solo female travellers. Plus, transportation and food are quite affordable. You can even enjoy a Vietnam and Cambodia trip, or travel through Indochina, without burning holes in your pockets. Just hit Plan Your Trip and we’ll do the rest.