Rainy days and hot weather return to the daily main stage in May in Saigon. Visiting the city during this time of year is a bit sweaty, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat.
Climate Averages in Ho Chi Minh in May
May is the official start of Ho Chi Minh City’s wet season, which will continue for seven months through November. Temperatures remain similar to April between 79°F (26.1°C) and 92°F (33.3°C), but humidity increases significantly to 79%, making temperatures feel much hotter. The amount of direct sunlight decreases to an average of 6.3 hours per day, but daylight hours increase to 12.6.
The combination of the high humidity and hot temperatures causes May to receive a significant increase in rainfall compared to April. On average, Ho Chi Minh City receives 213.4 mm (8.4 in) of precipitation over 17.8 rainfall days throughout the month.
| May Weather | |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 79-92°F (26.1-33.3°C) |
| Precipitation | 213.4 mm (8.4 in) |
| Humidity | 79% |
| Rainfall | 17.8 days |
| Daylight | 12.6 hr |
| Sunlight | 6.3 hr |
Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh in May
The combination of May’s high humidity, hot temperatures, and frequent rains makes Ho Chi Minh City a less desirable vacation destination during this time of year. However, there are still many activities to do if you can handle the heat.
Visit the Van Sat ecological tourist center to venture into the wild and enjoy cooler atmospheres without having to leave the city. Here you can explore the Bat Swamp, learn crab angling, visit the crocodile farm, or participate in bird-watching activities.
International Labor Day is celebrated on May 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, which is often combined with Reunification Day at the end of April to provide locals with an extended break. If you visit the city during this time, you can take advantage of the great deals, and low prices offered at local shops.
On May 19, Ho Chi Minh City residents celebrate the birthday of former Vietnam President Ho Chi Minh, who successfully led the nation to independence and freedom. Ho Chi Minh is honored with photography and documentary exhibitions during this celebration.
On the eight day of the fourth lunar month, Vietnamese Buddhists celebrate Phat Dan or Buddha’s Birthday. The festival is celebrated in temples, pagodas and other places of worship across Vietnam where incense is burned, gifts are placed in front of shrines, and monks lead calls of prayer.
Tips for Visiting Ho Chi Minh in May
If you decide to visit Ho Chi Minh City during this time of year, make sure to wear light, sweat-absorbent clothes to remain comfortable in May’s high humidity and hot temperatures. Also, make sure that you are drinking plenty of fluids and continue using sun protection as UV rays remain harsh.
An umbrella and light raincoat are essential to have on you at all times during May as rainfall occurs over half of the month and can be unpredictable.
If you’re not accustomed to these tropical temperatures, it may be best to avoid visiting Saigon during this time as sudden pouring rains combined with the hot weather have been known to make people sick.
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