Cardamom Weather: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for 2025 and Beyond

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like weather25.com, world-weather.info, easeweather.com, weather2travel.com, climate-data.org, and cambodia-travel.com. Weather forecasts based on historical patterns and latest data as of August 28, 2025; verify before travel. Reflects Cambodia’s updated travel regulations.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

The Cardamom Mountains, located in southwestern Cambodia at approximately 11.5°N, 103.5°E and elevations ranging from 300 to 1,500 meters, are a lush, biodiverse region known for their rainforests, rivers, and ecotourism opportunities like the Tatai River and Chi Phat village cambodia-travel.com. A hidden gem for adventurers, the Cardamoms attract visitors for their pristine wilderness, trekking, and proximity to coastal hubs like Koh Kong (2–3 hours by road) culturetrip.com. Whether joining guided Cardamom Tours or exploring independently, understanding the Cardamom Mountains’ weather is crucial for planning activities such as jungle trekking, kayaking, or cultural visits to local communities. The area’s tropical monsoon climate features a dry season (November–April) and a wet season (May–October), with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 35°C and significant rainfall in September weather25.com. This guide provides weather-based travel tips, cultural insights, and eco-friendly Cardamom Travel options to ensure a seamless and culturally respectful journey.

Following Cambodia’s updated travel regulations in 2025, the Cardamom Mountains are accessible via road from Phnom Penh (5–6 hours) or Koh Kong, with local transport like boats, motorbikes, or trekking guides. This guide blends seasonal advice, packing tips, and sustainable Cardamom Travel ideas for a worry-free experience.

Administrative Note

The Cardamom Mountains’ weather features a dry season (November–April, 22–34°C, low rain) ideal for trekking and kayaking, and a wet season (May–October, 24–35°C, high rain) suited for early morning outings or indoor cultural experiences. Most nationalities require a visa ($30–$35); ASEAN countries enjoy visa-free entry for 14–30 days. Key sites like Chi Phat have minimal entry fees ($2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR), while guided tours cost $15–$80 (60,000–320,000 KHR), and local purchases range from $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR). Key sites are accessible by boat or motorbike from Koh Kong or Tatai. Verify weather forecasts and visa requirements via cambodia-travel.com or accuweather.com.

Seasonal Breakdown

• Dry Season (November–April):

  • Temperature: 22–34°C; coolest in January (daily mean 26°C) with comfortable evenings weather25.com. Daytime highs average 32°C world-weather.info.

  • Conditions: Sunny with moderate humidity (50–75%), minimal rainfall (2–5 rainy days/month, 20–50 mm/month), and mostly clear skies, ideal for trekking in the Cardamom Mountains, kayaking on the Tatai River, or visiting Chi Phat easeweather.com. February averages 28–32°C with 8–10 hours of sunshine daily weather2travel.com.

  • Precipitation: Low, 0–2 mm/day; driest in January (10 mm/month) climate-data.org.

  • UV Index: High (8–11); sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR) and hats ($2 or 8,000 KHR) essential weather2travel.com.

  • Conditions for Visiting: Perfect for outdoor activities like jungle trekking, kayaking, and cultural tours; peak tourist season with clear weather weather25.com.

• Wet Season (May–October):

  • Temperature: 24–35°C; warm and humid (75–90%) with frequent rain (15–20 rainy days/month, 100–300 mm/month); lush greenery in the Cardamom rainforests world-weather.info. September averages 31°C daytime highs and 24°C lows, with up to 296 mm rainfall over 19 days climate-data.org.

  • Conditions: Heavy showers and occasional thunderstorms, peaking in September (274 mm/month, 19 rainy days); suitable for early morning trekking or indoor cultural experiences like visiting community centers in Chi Phat weather25.com. Slippery trails and river swelling require caution easeweather.com. There is a 60% probability of precipitation, indicating a moderate to high chance of rain [web:0].

  • Precipitation: Moderate to heavy, 5–15 mm/day; wettest in September world-weather.info.

  • UV Index: Moderate to high (4–8); rain gear essential weather2travel.com.

  • Conditions for Visiting: Ideal for budget travelers, early morning outings, or indoor activities; fewer crowds but wet conditions easeweather.com.

Weather Impacts

• Outdoor Activities: Dry season is best for trekking, kayaking, and cultural exploration in the Cardamom Mountains; wet season suits early morning outings or indoor cultural experiences like community homestays weather25.com. February offers optimal weather for ecotourism world-weather.info.

• Festivals: Khmer New Year (April) enjoys dry, warm weather with community events; wet season festivals like Pchum Ben (September/October, lunar calendar) feature cultural events cambodia-travel.com.

• Health: Wet season’s humidity increases mosquito activity; use repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR). Dry season’s heat requires hydration; air quality is generally acceptable accuweather.com.

• Tip: Check daily forecasts via accuweather.com or weather25.com 1–2 weeks before travel; pack for seasonal conditions.

Respecting Cambodia’s Cultural Heritage

Cultural etiquette ensures a respectful experience during Cardamom Tours, especially when adapting to weather conditions. Here’s your guide, based on current norms as of August 28, 2025:

• Greetings: Offer a “sok sabai” (hello) with a slight bow or sampeah (hands pressed together); use both hands when paying for entrance fees or purchases to show respect, especially in local villages or community centers.

• Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for visits to cultural sites like Chi Phat community centers or local villages; a lightweight scarf ($1 or 4,000 KHR) aligns with local norms culturetrip.com. In the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton or linen; in the wet season, bring quick-dry clothing and a raincoat ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Behaviour: Maintain a quiet demeanor in villages or during community events; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; avoid loud behavior in rural areas. Avoid pointing feet at sacred objects, as this is disrespectful in Khmer culture. A guest shared: “Respecting Khmer customs made our rainy Cardamom visit serene.”

• Customs: Entry to sites like Chi Phat community tours costs $2–$5 (8,000–20,000 KHR); donations ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR) appreciated; tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR); avoid public criticism of the government (penalties apply). Avoid littering to preserve natural and cultural sites culturetrip.com.

• Tip: Say “arkun” (thank you) to locals or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 8,000 KHR) to support sustainable Cardamom Travel; carry rain gear in the wet season or sun protection in the dry season. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen weather-prepared travellers thrive in the Cardamom Mountains’ vibrant cultural heritage.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for Khmer basics like “arkun”; English is limited in the Cardamoms, so translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.

• Respect: Follow community and village rules (avoid disturbing local wildlife or rituals); avoid disrupting festivals; support local artisans with fair purchases in markets.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Cardamom Mountains” or “Chi Phat” for navigation, especially in rainy conditions.

• Eco-Tip: Opt for boats ($5–$15 or 20,000–60,000 KHR) or motorbikes ($5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR/day) to reduce emissions, aligning with Cambodia’s green tourism goals.

Below is a curated list of tour options tailored to the Cardamom Mountains’ weather, based on the latest data from weather25.com, world-weather.info, easeweather.com, weather2travel.com, climate-data.org, and cambodia-travel.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Weather-Adapted Exploration

• Details: Explore Chi Phat, Tatai River, or local villages independently; adapt to dry season (trekking, kayaking), wet season (early morning outings, indoor cultural activities); suitable for prepared travellers; moderate difficulty due to remote terrain.

• Weather Tips: Explore in dry season for clear trails; focus on early morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) in wet season with rain gear; prioritize indoor activities like community homestays during heavy rain [web:0].

• Schedule: Daily; Chi Phat community tours available 7:00 AM–5:00 PM ($2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR); vibrant during Khmer New Year (April).

• Cost: Entry: $0–$5 (0–20,000 KHR); donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR); transport (motorbike: $5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR/day; boat: $5–$15 or 20,000–60,000 KHR); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).

• Location: Cardamom Mountains, Koh Kong Province, Cambodia.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use boats or motorbikes to reduce emissions; avoid littering in rainforests or villages.

• Tip: Check forecasts at accuweather.com; visit early in wet season to avoid heavy rain; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with weather planning.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Weather-Adapted Cultural Tour)

• Details: 1-day group tour visiting Chi Phat and local villages; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Koh Kong, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

• Weather Tips: Outdoor trekking in dry season; early morning focus in wet season with rain gear; indoor cultural activities during heavy rain [web:0].

• Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Koh Kong hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $25–$40/person (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes entry).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Koh Kong.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest noted: “Legend’s tour adapted perfectly to wet season conditions.”

3. Local Vietnam (Combo Weather-Adapted Cultural and Adventure Tour)

• Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Chi Phat and kayaking on the Tatai River; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Koh Kong, lunch, and equipment; moderate difficulty.

• Weather Tips: Best in dry season for clear kayaking conditions; early morning visits in wet season with rain gear; cultural focus during heavy rain [web:0].

• Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Koh Kong hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

• Cost: $30–$50/person (120,000–200,000 KHR, includes equipment).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Koh Kong.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest noted: “The combo tour was ideal for sunny or rainy days.”

4. Multi-Day Weather-Adapted Adventure Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: 2–3 day tour combining Cardamom Mountains’ Chi Phat, Tatai River kayaking, and Koh Kong’s cultural sites; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; moderate difficulty.

• Weather Tips: Focus on outdoor activities in dry season; early morning or covered activities in wet season; cultural visits in rainy conditions; guides adjust itineraries for weather [web:0].

• Schedule: Daily; departs from Koh Kong or nearby hotels; returns after 2–3 days.

• Cost: $80–$200/person (320,000–800,000 KHR, includes entries).

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Koh Kong or Phnom Penh.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book Cardamom Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a weather-smart adventure.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for weather-prepared independent travellers.

• Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for weather-adapted cultural insights.

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend trekking and kayaking with cultural experiences for a comprehensive journey.

• Multi-Day Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with weather-smart itineraries.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or boats, supporting Cambodia’s green tourism goals.

Key weather-based travel opportunities include:

• Khmer New Year: Typically April (lunar calendar), vibrant with community events; warm and dry (26–34°C); check dates at cambodia-travel.com.

• Pchum Ben: Typically September/October (lunar calendar), festive with cultural events; warm and rainy (24–35°C); check dates at cambodia-travel.com.

• Trekking and Kayaking: November–April for clear trails and calm rivers; May–October possible with early morning visits, especially February for optimal weather weather25.com.

Dry season (November–April, 22–34°C) is ideal for trekking, kayaking, and cultural visits. Wet season (May–October, 24–35°C) suits budget travelers and indoor cultural experiences. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via accuweather.com.

• Dry Season (November–April): Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton or linen; sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR); hat ($2 or 8,000 KHR); light jacket ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for cooler evenings weather25.com.

• Wet Season (May–October): Pack quick-dry clothing; raincoat or umbrella ($2 or 8,000 KHR); waterproof shoes ($5 or 20,000 KHR); mosquito repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR).

• Forecast Checks: Monitor daily forecasts 1–2 weeks before travel via accuweather.com or weather25.com; adjust plans for rain or heat.

• Eco-Tip: Use reusable water bottles ($2 or 8,000 KHR) and totes ($1 or 4,000 KHR) to reduce waste; opt for boats or motorbikes for sustainable travel.

• Tip: Book tours with flexible itineraries; plan early morning visits in wet season; pack sun protection for dry season; carry small KHR notes for purchases; confirm visa requirements ($30–$35 if needed).

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), Cambodia visa ($30–$35 if required), wallet ($2–$3 or 8,000–12,000 KHR), tour bookings.

• Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for cultural visits; lightweight scarf ($1 or 4,000 KHR); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($5 or 20,000 KHR); hat ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 8,000 KHR); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 800–4,000 KHR, e.g., num pang); small backpack ($2 or 8,000 KHR); sunscreen ($1 or 4,000 KHR); insect repellent ($1 or 4,000 KHR).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR); local SIM ($2–$3 or 8,000–12,000 KHR); waterproof camera ($20 or 80,000 KHR) for photos (with permission).

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 4,000 KHR) for purchases; phrase card ($1 or 4,000 KHR) with Khmer basics.

• Extras: Small KHR notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 8,000 KHR); umbrella ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 8,000 KHR) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for Weather-Prepared Travel to Cardamom Mountains

Travel Tour Costs

• Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: $0–$5 (0–20,000 KHR); donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR); transport (motorbike: $5–$10 or 20,000–40,000 KHR/day; boat: $5–$15 or 20,000–60,000 KHR).

• Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (100,000–160,000 KHR, includes entry).

• Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (120,000–200,000 KHR, includes equipment).

• Multi-Day Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (320,000–800,000 KHR, includes entries). Weather-Related Costs

• Raincoat or Umbrella: $2 (8,000 KHR).

• Sunscreen or Insect Repellent: $1 each (4,000 KHR).

• Waterproof Shoes or Quick-Dry Clothing: $2–$5 (8,000–20,000 KHR). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., num pang, banana fritters): $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR).

• Souvenirs (e.g., scarves, handicrafts): $0.20–$10 (800–40,000 KHR).

• Donations: $0.20–$1 (800–4,000 KHR). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$30 (self-guided, snacks, transport).

• Mid-range: $30–$60 (group tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $60–$100 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $10–$100 for tours, weather items, or transport, and $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons.

• Weather Tips: Check forecasts 1–2 weeks before travel; plan outdoor activities in dry season; focus on early morning visits in wet season with rain gear; prioritize indoor activities during heavy rain accuweather.com.

• Etiquette: Use “sok sabai”; dress modestly for cultural visits; stay respectful in villages; avoid littering in rainforests.

• Access: Choose self-guided visits for flexibility, group tours for weather-adapted insights, or multi-day tours for deeper exploration.

• Schedules: Sites open 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (November–April); book early for festivals (April, September/October).

• Sustainability: Use boats or motorbikes; carry reusable items; support local communities with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Cardamom Mountains” or “Chi Phat.”

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 8,000 KHR); beware of slippery trails; carry emergency numbers (Police: 117, Tourist Police: +855 12 942 484).

• Health Note: Use bottled water; apply mosquito repellent in wet season; stay hydrated in dry season; avoid stray animals travel.state.gov.

• What is the weather like in the Cardamom Mountains? Dry season (November–April, 22–34°C) is sunny and ideal; wet season (May–October, 24–35°C) is rainy with lush scenery weather25.com.

• When is the best time to visit the Cardamom Mountains? Dry season for trekking and kayaking; wet season for budget travel and indoor experiences; February for optimal weather world-weather.info.

• How do I prepare for the Cardamom’s wet season? Pack raincoat, umbrella, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof shoes; focus on early morning activities easeweather.com.

• Is the Cardamom’s weather safe for travel? Yes, but wet season brings slippery trails and flooding risks; dry season requires sun protection; check forecasts via accuweather.com.

• How do I check the Cardamom’s weather? Use accuweather.com or weather25.com for daily forecasts.

• Are eco-friendly tours available? Yes, group tours with fuel-efficient transport or boats; check localvietnam.com.

Enhance your weather-prepared Cardamom journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Cardamom Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided village and cultural tour with sustainable practices.

• Cardamom Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore ecotourism sites with eco-friendly transport.

• Cambodia Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Cardamom Travel plans.

Understanding Cardamom Weather with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “sok sabai,” and weather-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Cambodian rainforest gem. With tour costs from $15–$80, sustainable Cardamom Tours, and attractions like Chi Phat and Tatai River, this trip offers adventure and sustainability. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Cardamom Travel, check forecasts via accuweather.com and respect local customs for the best experience. Safe travels!

Sources:

• Weather Information: weather25.com, world-weather.info, easeweather.com, weather2travel.com, climate-data.org

• Cultural and Travel Details: culturetrip.com, cambodia-travel.com