Things remain unchanged nationwide as north and south Vietnam endures the sultry monsoon wet season sauna, while Central Vietnam enjoys the last month of dry sunny weather before its monsoon begins. Shoulder season prices are attractive, so don’t let the rains put you off. There’s still plenty of fun in the sun to be had in August.
Weather in Vietnam in August
August in Vietnam finds most of the country deep within the embrace of the summer monsoon season, a period also known for typhoons. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that Vietnam’s diverse geography creates significant regional weather variations. What you experience in the north will likely differ considerably from the south or the central regions.
In Hanoi and the northern reaches of Vietnam, August is characterized as the wettest month of the entire year. This intense rainfall has a dramatic impact on outdoor activities. Hiking, in particular, becomes an unappealing prospect, as the mountains are thoroughly soaked, trails become muddy, and the overall experience is diminished by the constant downpour. Temperatures in North Vietnam, despite the rain, remain high, hovering close to their peak levels. Expect a sultry and humid atmosphere, with average temperatures in Hanoi reaching around 85°F (29°C). Furthermore, Halong Bay, a stunning natural wonder, becomes susceptible to storms during this period. The combination of heat, humidity, and rain creates a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which are at their peak population in August. If you plan to visit North Vietnam during this time, it is absolutely essential to pack copious amounts of insect repellent to protect yourself from these biting insects, as well as reliable rain gear to stay dry.
Central Vietnam presents a somewhat different picture. The beaches and coastal lowlands are enjoying their last month of predominantly dry weather and abundant sunshine before the arrival of the seasonal monsoon in September. While occasional, intermittent showers may occur at the beginning of August, the frequency and intensity of rainfall, along with overcast skies, tend to increase as the month progresses. The summer monsoons still bring significant rainfall to the Central Highlands. As a result, August is generally not considered an ideal month for trekking or exploring this mountainous region. Temperatures in Central Vietnam remain at their peak, with average temperatures in Hue, often considered the warmest part of the country, reaching around 88°F/31°C. For those seeking sunny skies and beachside relaxation in Central Vietnam, it is advisable to bring a generous supply of sunscreen to protect against the strong sun.
South Vietnam experiences the full force of its five-month monsoon season in August. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta are regularly subjected to near-daily downpours. These rain showers typically occur in the afternoon. This leaves plenty of time to explore under sunny and dry conditions during the daylight hours.
However, after periods of particularly heavy and prolonged rainfall lasting for a week or more, flooding can become a significant issue in certain areas. The South China Sea can also become quite rough, making transportation delays a distinct possibility. When traveling in South Vietnam during August, it is wise to have a contingency plan in place in the event that weather conditions disrupt your travel arrangements. The average temperature in August hovers around 80°F (27°C), but it is not uncommon for highs to climb into the 90s Fahrenheit.
Crowds and Costs in August
Domestic travel within Vietnam remains at its peak during August, coinciding with the final weeks of summer vacation for Vietnamese families. At the same time, there is an increase in international visitors. Consequently, expect to encounter crowded conditions, particularly on popular beaches, during the first half of August, as families take advantage of the remaining vacation time before children return to school. As the second half of August approaches, the summer peak-season prices gradually begin to decrease, and it becomes easier to find deals and bargains, including attractive airfares, especially from the West Coast of USA. Mid- to late-August is often regarded as a favorable time to visit Vietnam for those seeking to avoid the largest crowds of tourists.
Where to Go in Vietnam in August
The beaches and vibrant cities of Central Vietnam continue to be the primary attractions in August, largely due to their relatively sunny weather conditions compared to other regions. The narrow central part of the country is blessed with both stunning beaches and a wealth of fascinating historical and cultural sites. Consider starting your journey with some relaxing beach time at Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, or the inviting golden sands of An Bang. Then, immerse yourself in the graceful architecture and rich heritage of Hoi An. Explore the Imperial Citadel and other significant historical sites in Hue, and experience the dynamic atmosphere of Da Nang, renowned for its sensational cuisine and exciting nightlife.
For a poignant and insightful look into the “American War” (the name Vietnamese people use for the Vietnam War) and its impact on Vietnamese families, a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels, located approximately 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, is highly recommended. This underground network served as a crucial shelter for the local population during the war. The tunnels are now admired for their intricate and extensive construction, featuring multiple layers and interconnected passages resembling a spider web. The Cu Chi tunnels also included living quarters, meeting rooms, and strategic fighting positions, with a total length exceeding 200 km.
When exploring the coffee-growing region around Buon Ma Thuot, be sure to make a stop at the Trung Nguyen Coffee Village to discover the unique and intriguing process of making kopi luwak (civet, or weasel, coffee). Afterward, venture to nearby Ban Don to learn about the M’nong peoples, who have a long tradition of taming and caring for the wild elephants in the adjacent Yok Don National Park. Since 2018, elephant rides have been replaced with a more ethical approach to elephant tourism. Visitors can now observe the elephants from a safe distance as they undergo a gradual reintegration back into their natural habitat.
What to Do in Vietnam in August
Vietnam’s magnificent karst limestone formations provide excellent opportunities for thrilling outdoor adventures. The main area that remains largely unaffected by the monsoon season in August is Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This park offers a diverse range of activities, including caving, climbing, forest hiking, mountain biking, and even kayaking along underground rivers. Allow yourself at least three or four days to fully explore the vast potential of this natural wonderland, a true paradise for geologists and speleologists.
August marks the peak of the Green turtle nesting season on the pristine white sandy beaches of the Con Dao archipelago, situated off Vietnam’s southern coast. This group of islands, once known as a prison, is now a national park and a flourishing marine tourism destination. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring sight of turtles laying their eggs (and, later, baby turtles hatching from the sands). The female turtles typically come ashore between May and October, and the first hatchlings emerge at night in mid-August, making their perilous dash to the sea. They nest on 14 of Con Dao’s 16 islands, with Bay Cahn Island receiving the majority of nesting activity. Participation in guided tours through the national park office is mandatory. Keep in mind that witnessing the turtles requires patience and a bit of luck, as they may come ashore as late as 2 or 3 am.
If you’ve been captivated by the incredible cuisine of Vietnam, why not learn how to prepare it yourself? Mastering the art of cooking delicious Vietnamese dishes will undoubtedly impress your friends back home and allow you to relive the wonderful memories of your trip. Cooking courses are available in every major city. For example, in Ho Chi Minh City, the Vietnam Cookery Center has been dedicated to teaching tourists the traditional methods of Vietnamese cooking for the past two decades.
August Events in Vietnam
* **Ghost Festival (Vu Lan):** Also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, Vu Lan is a significant event celebrated nationwide on the fifteenth day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar. During this time, Vietnamese people pay homage to their deceased ancestors. It is believed that the souls of the departed return to their former homes during this period.
* **Chi Long Festival:** This small village festival is held in early August in Phong Chuong, located approximately 20 miles (32 km) north of Hue. The festival features a procession of votive tablets, accompanied by traditional dances. Offerings are also floated down the O Lau River on decorated boats.
* **Hon Chen Festival:** This vibrant community celebration takes place on Hue’s Perfume River on August 21. It honors the Hon Chem Temple with processions and offerings. These include colorful dragon boats filled with participants dressed as characters from the Nguyen Dynasty. Lanterns are also set afloat on the river at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
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