Best Places to Visit Vietnam in March

Best Places to Visit Vietnam in March

March offers delightful weather across Vietnam, characterized by predominantly sunny days. It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities, especially trekking, thanks to pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. While it’s still a peak travel season in spring, you’ll enjoy the benefits of fewer crowds than in February and more affordable airfare.

Weather

March is often referred to as Vietnam’s “Goldilocks” month, with a high likelihood of clear blue skies and abundant sunshine. As temperatures rise in the northern mountains, hiking conditions in Sapa, Ha Giang, and Mu Cang Chai become excellent, while Hanoi enjoys a mild and dry climate. Central Vietnam experiences warmer and dry weather, making it very comfortable.

The beaches come alive in summer mode, offering ideal conditions for soaking up the sun. Although southern Vietnam starts to heat up (averaging 84°F/29°C), the dry weather means it’s still a great time to explore the coastal beaches. Be sure to pack light summer clothing, along with a jacket for cooler days and nights in the mountains and northern regions.

Crowds & Costs

The enchanting spring weather attracts numerous international visitors, though fewer than in January or February, with relatively few Vietnamese travelers during this time. Central and southern Vietnam’s beautiful beaches are particularly popular, along with the highlands of Northern Vietnam, where hotel rates tend to peak.

With over 700 miles (1,130 km) between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there are noticeable differences in climate and visitor experiences. Flights to Ho Chi Minh City are typically cheaper than to Hanoi, where hotel prices are higher during this period. However, international flight fares are generally at their lowest for the year.

Where to Go

Halong Bay, with its stunning limestone formations rising from turquoise waters, attracts many visitors, resulting in crowded conditions due to numerous sightseeing boats. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting Bai Tu Long Bay, which boasts similar breathtaking scenery but significantly fewer tourists, along with charming beaches and caves to explore.

March is also the perfect time to discover the coffee-growing region of Tay Nguyen, where coffee plants are in full bloom and the air is fragrant. Consider staying in the off-the-beaten-path town of Buon Ma Thuot, known as Vietnam’s “capital of coffee.” Combine a visit to a coffee plantation with wildlife adventures in nearby Yok Don National Park and exploration of local ethnic minority villages.

The delightful weather along the central Vietnamese coast will tempt you to relax on the sandy beaches, such as An Bang, which is conveniently located just north of the historic city of Hoi An. Enjoy both sunbathing and tranquil swimming, while also taking time to appreciate the remarkable history of the town.

What to Do

March brings calm waters and excellent visibility to the 16 remote islands and islets of Con Dao, renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. Dive in to discover turtles, moray eels, stingrays, and a stunning array of colorful fish. Don’t miss the chance to hike on forest trails and explore museums that showcase the island’s history as a former French penal colony and an American prison during the Vietnam War.

While in the Buon Ma Thuot area, be sure to visit Trung Nguyen Coffee Village to learn about kopi luwak (civet coffee). Then head to Ban Don to experience the traditional lifestyles of the M’nong people, known for their stewardship of the wild elephants in Yok Don National Park. Since 2018, visitors can observe the elephants from a distance as they are reintegrated into the wild, promoting ethical tourism.

For those seeking adventure, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the lush Quang Binh province, offers exceptional experiences. This limestone region, near the Laos border, is home to incredible caves, including Hang Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, which is tall enough to house a skyscraper. Caving guides and tours can be arranged in the nearby town of Phong Nha, and you can also enjoy trekking to waterfalls and wildlife spotting.

March Events

Elephant Racing Festival: Held in Ban Don during the third lunar month, this annual festival features races, swimming, and games involving elephants from local villages, along with traditional feasting and dancing accompanied by the sounds of gongs and drums.

Phu Giay Festival: Taking place from the third to the eighth day of the third month of the Vietnamese lunar calendar, this festival attracts pilgrims to Phu Giay Temple in Nam Dinh province to honor Lieu Hanh, one of Vietnam’s four immortal gods. Enjoy folk singing, dancing, and other traditional festivities.

Thay Pagoda Festival: This celebration pays tribute to Tu Dao Hanh, a revered religious sage renowned for inventing Vietnamese water puppetry. One of the festival’s main attractions is the captivating puppetry performances, held at Tu Dao Hanh’s Pagoda, located about 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Hanoi. The festival takes place from the fifth to the seventh day of the third month of the lunar calendar.

Planning a trip to Vietnam in March? Discover These Amazing Itineraries!

Highlights of Vietnam – 12 Days: Spend nearly two weeks discovering Vietnam’s major highlights along with some hidden gems, from Hue and Hoi An to Hanoi.

Cycling Vietnam’s Highlands and Coast – 6 Days: Make the most of March’s dry, sunny weather as you ride through scenic pine forests and coffee plantations, then along the beautiful coastline to Hoi An.