1. Regional climate in January.
1.1. Northern Vietnam
This part includes Northwest, Northeast and Red River Delta, with 25 cities and provinces.
Popular destinations: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Mai Chau and Ha Giang.
January in Hanoi and North Vietnam is one of the driest months of the year with the prime of winter which brings almost no rain. Average temperature will be around 20oC, and annual rainfall is also mostly at its lowest of approx. 40mm.
Water activities in Halong Bay, Cat Ba island and other beaches in North Vietnam are quite impossible due to the cold temperature.
In the far North (mountainous areas) such as Sapa, Mau Son (Lang Son), Ha Giang, etc, the conditions are dry but chilly, and sometimes foggy, especially in the early morning or late night. There is a chance of getting snow in these areas as well.
1.2. Center Vietnam
This part includes North Central, South Central Coast and Central Highlands, with 19 cities and provinces.
Popular destinations: Quang Binh, Hue, Danang, Hoian, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang.
1.3. Southern Vietnam
This part includes Southeast and Mekong River Delta, with 19 cities and provinces.
Highlights: Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Vung Tau, Con Dao Phu Quoc, etc.
2. January Events
1.1. Northern Vietnam
This nationwide celebration usually falls between late January and mid-February (varying by year). This period becomes the most important event of the year when drawing Vietnamese back to their ancestral homes. You can feel the festive atmosphere when Lunar New Year coming so close throughout the country. Although there will be some limits on visits or activities if you travel right in Tet Holiday because most services are in closure, especially in Northern Vietnam, it is a chance for you to experience the Vietnamese culture deeper, especially when you are invited to a hosted family in these days.
2.2. Dalat Flower Festival.
3. Where to go in January?
As the South has the best weather conditions in January, this is fantastic time to explore Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta. Taking a boat in Mekong Delta is a good choice when the water is calm. Flowers are also in bloom, bringing the sensational colors of the floating markets.
For the best beach experience, you can head to Phu Quoc Island where the temperatures at this time of year average around 25-28°C. Beach paradises and pristine islands are in the best time for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
Cherry blossoms in Dalat in around middle of January. The fresh air of the mountain town makes visitors here feel more comfortable.
In the North, although having cooler weather than the Central and the South, Halong Bay – a UNESCO Heritage Site should not be skipped. Its beauty becomes more mystery in the foggy scenery.
In late January (or mid-February, varying by year), the whole country is busy to celebrate Tet Holiday. However, nowhere can’t beat Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and especially Hanoi for the best experience. At the stroke of midnight on Tet eve, fireworks will let fly across some main points of Hanoi, launching a full week of festivals and festivities.
Don’t miss to visit mountainous areas to admire the gorgeous scenery of flower bloom in January, along with the low temperature background (sometimes below 0°C). From Mai Chau, Moc Chau to Sapa, Ha Giang, peach flowers bloom throughout the hillsides. That’s the signal that the cold winter is passing through and the warm sunshine of spring will come very soon. You can also see the bright white of plum blossoms in Moc Chau Plateau, normally late January – early February.
In summary, coming to Vietnam in January will bring you a lots of choice and experience when travelling throughout the country. Hopefully you and your family have a well-prepared packing and plan a holiday with us soon. We are here and be always ready to assist any of your requirements!
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