Are you planning to travel to Vietnam in October but don’t know if is it worth visiting? Look no further, October marks the beginning of peak season for international travelers coming to Vietnam with the pleasant weather in most regions. That offers you a chance to really enjoy Vietnam the best. Let’s begin in detail with Indochina Voyages!
How is the weather in Vietnam in October?
The weather in Vietnam in October is generally pleasant, with varying conditions across the country – the north experiences cooler, drier conditions, the central region sees heavy monsoon rains, and the south enjoys sunny, slightly less humid weather as the rainy season winds down. Here are the details for each region:
Northern Vietnam
October marks the gradual end of the wet season in North Vietnam. By the end of the month, temperatures drop sharply, averaging 77°F (25°C) as the region moves towards the cool, dry winter. The weather in popular mountainous regions like Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, and Ha Giang is mostly dry and sunny, making it an ideal time for trekking. Additionally, October and November are also among the best months to explore Hanoi and Halong Bay.
Central Vietnam
In Central Vietnam, the northeast monsoon is at its peak during October, bringing heavy storms, prolonged rains, and potential flooding, especially in Hoi An. Temperatures average around 75-81°F (24-27°C), and while there may be some sunny periods, this is not the best time for a beach vacation.
The rains and possible typhoons will continue to affect the coast through November, but in Dalat and the Central Highlands, the heavy rains begin to ease by the end of the month. Central Vietnam in October can witness some flooding though so be careful for planning to visit in October.
Southern Vietnam
South Vietnam gradually emerges from its six-month monsoon season by the end of October, with the southern beach resorts basking in increasing sunshine. While it still rains an average of 14 days during the month, the rainfall is not as heavy as in September and gradually decreases as the month progresses. Temperatures hold steady at around 81°F (27°C), making it a good time to visit the Mekong Delta and the beach resorts, including the islands of Con Dao and Phu Quoc.
Maybe this will be helpful for you: When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in October
October is an ideal time for you to visit North and South Vietnam with its pleasant weather and fresh landscape after rains in the rainy season before. While Central witnesses the peak time of the rainy season it could be not a great idea to visit. Here are some of the top destinations worth visiting in Vietnam during October:
Vietnam North’s Mountainous Area: October offers a perfect opportunity for trekking in Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, and Ha Giang in dry and sunny weather. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes, encounter ethnic minority communities, and immerse themselves in the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Hanoi: Being one of the best months of the year to visit Hanoi, October is the time for the golden Hanoi’s Autumn – the most beautiful month of Hanoi in the year. With pleasant weather, making it a great time to explore the capital city’s historic sites, bustling markets, and vibrant street food scene. Visitors can wander through the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.
The Mekong Delta: This is also a good destination in October, as the monsoon season is winding down, and temperatures remain comfortable. Travelers can experience the unique floating markets, visit local villages, and explore the region’s lush, verdant landscapes.
Con Dao: The islands of Con Dao, off the southern coast of Vietnam, see sunny and warm weather in October, making it a suitable time for beach vacations. Visitors can relax on the pristine beaches, hike in the national park, and discover the island’s rich history.
Phu Quoc: Similarly, the idyllic island of Phu Quoc in the Gulf of Thailand enjoys sunny days and pleasant temperatures during October. It’s an excellent destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful island getaway.
Cost & Crowd
As October progresses, international visitors arrive in large numbers, taking advantage of the increasingly sunny weather. However, October and November are historically among the cheapest months to fly to Vietnam. Conversely, October is the priciest month for hotels in Hanoi.
While visitors are returning to the South Vietnam beaches, the crowds have not yet reached their peak, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Suggested Itineraries for Traveling to Vietnam in October
If you are planning to travel to Vietnam in October, let’s check out our Vietnam tours in the Northern and Southern below which are made by our local travel experts:
Discovery Southern Vietnam & Cambodia 13 days: This 13-day itinerary offers the perfect opportunity to discover the highlights of South Vietnam and Cambodia. Traverse the Mekong River by speedboat, exploring the major sites at a comfortable pace across both countries in just two weeks. It’s an ideal trip for travelers seeking to experience the best of Saigon, the Mekong Delta, and Cambodia.
Southern Vietnam Discovery 6 Days: This itinerary provides an easy, engaging way to experience Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the captivating Mekong Delta. It balances immersion in local life with the option of a luxurious or deluxe Mekong cruise, offering the best of both worlds.
Adventure The Winding Northwest 7 Days: The Northwest Vietnam tour offers a rewarding cultural and photographic experience, providing a comfortable 7-day, 6-night discovery of the region’s ethnic minority communities and landscapes.
Adventure The Northeast Vietnam 6 Days: This captivating Vietnam itinerary showcases the best of the north, from the serene Ba Be Lake and Cao Bang region to the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall and Lang Son’s border town. The crown jewel is a visit to the New Seven World Wonder, the stunning Halong Bay.
Those are just a few of our suggested Vietnam itineraries, but Indochina Voyages‘s travel experts are happy to customize a tour that suits your interests and needs. We welcome you warmly and will work with you to create the perfect, personalized experience exploring the highlights of Vietnam!
Before You Travel
Clothes for Vietnam in October
- Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm, humid weather, with the option of adding layers for cooler temperatures in the north.
- Bring rain gear, as the central and southern regions may still experience occasional showers.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Vietnam’s cities and landscapes.
What to Pack for a Vietnam Trip in October?
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun as October still has sun in South and North Vietnam
- Insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present
- Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics for clothing
- Any necessary medications and a basic first-aid kit
- Adapters and chargers for electronic devices
- Vietnamese dong for local transactions
Vietnam in October offers an excellent time to visit the country with the northern mountainous areas experiencing pleasant, dry conditions ideal for trekking, the central coast seeing less intense monsoon rains, and the southern parts of the country enjoying warm, sunny weather as the rainy season subsides.
By planning your trip to Vietnam in October, you can take advantage of the region’s unique charms and create unforgettable memories.
From Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
