What January feels like in Ho Chi Minh City
January is part of Ho Chi Minh City's dry season, when rain totals drop well below the wet months. Afternoons are hot, so sightseeing works best in the morning or evening. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights stay warm. Some humidity hangs in the air, noticeable when the sun is strong.
Rain in Ho Chi Minh City in January
Wet days are occasional rather than regular, about one day in 8. Each rainy day adds about 8 mm (0.3 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. The yearly figure is similar, around 9.3 mm per wet day. It is among the three driest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in January
Mid-month, Ho Chi Minh City gets 11 h 33 min of daylight, from sunrise near 6:16 am to sunset near 5:49 pm. Day length barely changes from mid-December (3 min longer). Close to the equator, sunrise and sunset times move very little through the year. About 89% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, skies are mostly clear.
How January compares to the rest of the year
Ranked by average high, January comes out as the 5th warmest month in Ho Chi Minh City. Compared with December, afternoons are 0.6°C (1.1°F) warmer, with 27 mm less rain. February continues the upward trend. The next month's average high: 33.2°C (91.8°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — daytime temperatures are fine for walking around.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — afternoons are too warm to linger outside.
Tips for visiting Ho Chi Minh City in January
Sun Protection
Protect yourself from strong sun: hat, SPF and plenty of water.
Quick questions
How warm is Ho Chi Minh City in January?
It feels hot: typical highs are 31.5°C (88.7°F), with lows near 22.6°C (72.7°F).
Does it rain a lot in Ho Chi Minh City in January?
Only moderately: roughly 4 wet days and 32 mm, usually moderate rain.
What should I wear in Ho Chi Minh City in January?
Pack sun protection. Evenings feel similar to the day, so the same clothes work from morning to night.
Is January or February better for visiting Ho Chi Minh City?
January scores better on our climate ranking (#1 of 12 vs #3), rated Great against Good. February is warmer and has fewer rainy days.