Mai Chau

The birthplace of the Vietnamese nation, Northern Vietnam boasts scenic splendour with mountainous regions and the buzz of the city. This guarantees a visit that enthrals and inspires in equal measure. Home to the Vietnamese people for nearly 5,000 years, Northern Vietnam remains the cultural heartland of the modern Vietnamese nation. Offering the best of all worlds, the region boasts remarkable landscapes, mouth-watering cuisine and a great depth of culture. The region takes you on a journey past world-famous scenery, bustling old towns and the lesser known delights of Ninh Binh and Mai Chau. The dramatic diversity of landscapes in the north makes the region a scenic pinnacle in a country of breathtaking beauty. Hike among towering rice terraces in the mountains, drift along slow lotus-lined rivers and be introduced to the delightful tastes and smells of fabulous street food. The variety in this region is bound to inspire you during your holiday in Northern Vietnam.

Once the destination is decided upon, one of the first questions that cross the mind of a traveller is “when’s the best time to go?” Luckily, with Northern Vietnam, anytime can be a good time to travel.

The unique weather patterns of Northern Vietnam owe their presence to the monsoonal season, which gives each time of the year an advantage. Some plan their holiday to Vietnam to avoid the heat and crowds, while others go to meet the people and experience the culture during fun festivals and events. Each season in Northern Vietnam will meet one of these expectations, if not all.

Springtime Freshness

The months of April through June remain an unpredictable time in Northern Vietnam, as the season transforms from spring to summer. The April 30th holiday, which marks the Reunification of North and South Vietnam, is typically held against a backdrop of cool weather with occasional light rains. Towards June, the temperature and humidity rises, although the air remains nice and fresh. Springtime offers fine weather with less crowded attractions, as this is the low domestic season in Vietnam.

Summer Retreats

From the month of June to early September, Northern Vietnam sees a record high in the volume of domestic tourists who crowd its mountain retreats. Popular spots such as Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Ky Son, Ninh Binh and Mai Chau will see queues of travellers on a tour in Vietnam. In terms of weather, summertime in Northern Vietnam is a hot and wet period. Sun and beach lovers will not find a better time to visit the region than this.

Autumn Colours

Between the months of January and March, the weather in Northern Vietnam is characterized by cool and occasional light rain. This is a recommended time for a Vietnam holiday due to the great weather and abundant festivals. Nature lovers who plan on trekking early in the year into the rural mountains of Northern Vietnam should bring an extra coat to keep them warm as temperatures can drop to record low levels. The winter period also sees the most colourful festivals taking place such as the Tet Festival.

Winter Romance

Winter is a golden time to visit Northern Vietnam as the sky is clear and the winds gentle. Moving closer to December, the temperature drops in distinct contrast to the previous tropical climate. Late September to early October offer an ideal occasion for a Vietnam tour to the north to see the beautiful colours. With moderate temperatures hovering in the 20s, this period between September and December in the north of Vietnam is a time for romance and tranquility.