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Weather Comparison

Ho Chi Minh City vs Siem Reap

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Ho Chi Minh City: 33°CSiem Reap: 33°C414 km apart

May Weather: Ho Chi Minh City vs Siem Reap

MetricHo Chi Minh CitySiem ReapBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer33°C (91°F)33°C (91°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder26°C (79°F)26°C (79°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier25 days22 daysSiem Reap
PrecipitationLess is drier199 mm154 mmSiem Reap
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/daySiem Reap
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer88Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better13 km/h12 km/hSiem Reap

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Siem Reap edges ahead as the better destination in May. Siem Reap offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 22 rain days, while Ho Chi Minh City sees 10 sunshine hours and 25 rain days.

Ho Chi Minh City can feel quite hot at 33°C, so plan for heat. Siem Reap runs hot at 33°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Siem Reap is the stronger choice in May. Siem Reap receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Ho Chi Minh City reaches an average high of 33°C (91°F) and drops to 26°C (79°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Siem Reap averages 33°C (91°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Ho Chi Minh City receives approximately 199 mm of rainfall across 25 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Siem Reap sees 154 mm over 22 rain days. That makes Siem Reap the drier option by 3 rain days and 45 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Ho Chi Minh City vs Siem Reap

Packing for Ho Chi Minh City in May

Highs of 33°C, lows of 26°C, 25 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Siem Reap in May

Highs of 33°C, lows of 26°C, 22 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Ho Chi Minh City vs Siem Reap

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthHo Chi Minh CitySiem Reap
HighRainHighRain
Jan31°C4d31°C2d
Feb33°C2d33°C3d
Mar34°C5d34°C9d
Apr34°C12d34°C15d
May33°C25d33°C22d
Jun31°C27d32°C21d
Jul31°C29d32°C22d
Aug31°C29d31°C25d
Sep30°C29d30°C26d
Oct30°C27d30°C23d
Nov30°C17d30°C9d
Dec30°C9d30°C3d
33°

Ho Chi Minh City Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

33°

Siem Reap Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ho Chi Minh City warmer than Siem Reap in May?
Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap have the same average high temperature of 33°C (91°F) in May. The average lows are 26°C and 26°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in May, Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap?
Ho Chi Minh City gets more rain in May with 25 rain days and 199 mm of precipitation. Siem Reap is the drier option with 22 rain days.
Is it better to visit Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap in May?
It depends on your preferences. Ho Chi Minh City averages 33°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 25 rain days. Siem Reap averages 33°C with 11 sunshine hours and 22 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Siem Reap. For fewer rain days, Siem Reap is the better pick.
How far apart are Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap?
Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap are approximately 414 km (257 miles) apart. Ho Chi Minh City is located in Vietnam (Asia) while Siem Reap is in Cambodia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap?
For Ho Chi Minh City, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 33°C. For Siem Reap, January is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 31°C highs.

Compare Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Ho Chi Minh City coordinates: 10.82°N, 106.63°E | Siem Reap coordinates: 13.37°N, 103.84°E