Travel advice for Cambodia
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Cambodia's varied landscape of mountains, plains, and coasts makes for different weather conditions throughout this compact country. While the higher elevations of the Cardamom and Dangrek mountains enjoy a cool climate in August, the lower regions, especially the busy plains, enjoy warmer weather. Now let's get into the details of the weather in Cambodia in August.
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The weather in Cambodia in August is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and hot temperatures as this month falls during the monsoon season.
This results in frequent, intense but brief downpours, affecting transportation and outdoor activities. However, mornings tend to remain drier and are suitable for visiting attractions such as Angkor Wat, while afternoons are better spent indoors.
This month falls during the low tourist season, which helps to avoid crowds and lower prices, although travel plans may need to be adjusted due to the weather. Despite the rains, the countryside is lush and the rivers are full, providing unique scenic views and conditions for some excursions, such as boat rides through floating villages.
August sees high rainfall, resulting in lush scenery, but also poses problems such as flooded roads. You should bring waterproof clothing and flexible shoes to comfortably navigate the wet terrain.
Overall, August can be a good time to visit Cambodia if you are looking for a more relaxed and intimate vacation, and if you are prepared for and can adapt to rainy conditions.
Rough Guide's Tip: A trip to Cambodia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so connect with our travel experts for the best trip experience.
August in Cambodia usually sees average high temperatures around 30-33°C (86-91°F) and average lows around 24-26°C (75-79°F). The country's weather is generally warm in different regions, with slight variations due to geographical differences.
The central plains, including Phnom Penh and surrounding areas, are hot and humid. Coastal areas, such as Sihanoukville, may experience slightly cooler breezes but still have high humidity levels. In high-altitude areas such as the Cardamom and Dangrek Mountains, temperatures are slightly cooler but not cold at all.
In general, the weather in Cambodia in August is very hot. The heat combined with high humidity can make it feel even hotter, especially in the cities and lowlands. Although the mountains provide a slight respite from the heat, they remain warm by most standards, indicating that August is far from a cold month in Cambodia.
Set on taking a trip this summer? Read up on the best places to visit in August.
August in Cambodia falls during the rainy season, which significantly affects travel plans and activities. This month is characterized by daily torrential rains, high humidity, and hot temperatures. While the rains usually come in short, heavy showers, often in the afternoon, they can still cause flooding in streets and rural areas, making transportation and access to certain locations difficult.
However, August also offers unique travel opportunities. The landscape is lush and green, and the famous temples of Angkor Wat are less crowded, making for a more tranquil experience. Accommodation and tour prices are usually lower, allowing you to save money.
Considering the weather and seasons, whether August is a good time to visit Cambodia depends on personal preference. If you don't mind the rain and prefer to avoid large crowds, August can be a great time to explore the country's natural beauty and cultural attractions in a more intimate setting.
However, if you prefer dry weather and spend a lot of time outdoors, you're better off visiting the country during the dry season, from November to April.
Can't decide on the season to travel? Explore our Cambodia year-round weather guide. Also, to better prepare for your trip you can read our travel tips for visiting Cambodia.
August in Cambodia continues the trend of reduced tourist traffic due to the rainy season, which offers several advantages if you choose to visit the country at this time. With fewer visitors, iconic sites such as Angkor Wat are less crowded, providing a more relaxed and personal experience.
The reduced number of tourists also means that accommodation and tour prices are generally lower, making August an attractive month for frugal travelers looking for bargains.
The benefits of visiting Cambodia in August are that you can enjoy its natural beauty at a more leisurely pace and benefit from reduced prices. However, it is worth noting that the peak tourist season, from November to April, in turn offers dry weather and more predictable travel conditions, though it comes with higher prices and more tourists.
Thus a trip in August can be a strategic choice to explore the wonders of Cambodia without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.
Looking for budget travel ideas? Explore our detailed list of the most budget-friendly destinations around the world.
August is the start of Cambodia's rainy season, and although there are no major traditional festivals during this time, the country still offers a unique experience. The focus shifts from large-scale festivities to more intimate cultural and natural explorations. This month allows you to enjoy Cambodia's lush landscapes and vibrant city life without the crowds of tourists typical of high season.
While specific annual events may be scarce, you'll be able to take part in community events, explore local markets at their most colorful, and take part in daily rituals at temples, offering a different perspective on Cambodian culture. The serene atmosphere at this time is ideal if you want to delve deeper into the history and daily life of the region.
While there's no need to pre-book tickets for major festivals in August, it's still worth making sure to book accommodation and local experiences in advance, especially in popular destinations such as Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, to ensure a seamless and fulfilling visit.
Still haven't decided where you're going this summer? Explore our list of the best August holiday destinations.
Our Cambodia itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.
While each month offers a unique Cambodia experience, the best time to visit depends on your travel preferences, whether it's exploring ancient temples, enjoying the beaches, or participating in cultural activities. Here's a quick overview of what to expect in Cambodia by month:
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written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 22.05.2024
Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.
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