Does it snow in Vietnam? The short answer is yes, but only in certain mountainous areas during the coldest months of winter (December - January). If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and want to see snow, it is important to know where to go and what to prepare.

1. Overview of Vietnam's climate

Vietnam experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by high humidity. The weather in Vietnam varies significantly due to the country's diverse terrains. Additionally, it is influenced by El Niño - Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which can disrupt monsoon patterns and lead to irregular rainfall and temperatures across the country.

In general, the climate in Vietnam is divided into three distinct zones: North, Central, and South.

North Vietnam's weather features 4 seasons: spring (March - April), summer (May - August), autumn (September - November), and winter (December - February). Winters in northern Vietnam are the coldest in the country, especially in the northernmost mountainous areas.

Central Vietnam's weather is categorized into 3 smaller regions. The North Central has hot summers (April - October) and cool winters (November - March). The South Central has dry seasons (January - August) and rainy seasons (September - December). The Central Highlands also has dry seasons (November - April) and rainy seasons (May - October)

South Vietnam maintains warm temperatures year-round in both dry seasons (November - April) and rainy seasons (May - October).

>>> Read more: Best time to visit Vietnam: Know when to start your upcoming trip

2. The reality of snowfall in Vietnam

Does it snow in Vietnam? Because of its tropical monsoon climate, snow rarely occurs in Vietnam. In some high-altitude mountainous areas in northern Vietnam like Sapa (Lao Cai) and Mau Son (Lang Son), light snowfall or frost can occasionally occur during the coldest winter months (December - January).

2.1. When has it snowed in Vietnam historically?

Snowfall has occasionally occurred in the northern mountains, during extreme cold spells in winter. Here are some historical snowfall events in Vietnam:

Y Ty (Lao Cai), January 2021: On the night of January 10, temperatures in Y Ty fell below freezing, and snow started to fall. The locals reported about an accumulation of 3 cm of snow, marking the first snowfall of the 2020-2021 winter season.
Fansipan (Lao Cai), January 2023: At around 2:30 PM on January 26, heavy snow covered Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest mountain, with temperatures as low as -2°C (28°F). This rare scene resembled a European winter and delighted many tourists.
Meo Vac (Ha Giang), December 2024 - January 2025: Snowflakes were observed in several high-altitude villages (1,500 - 1,700 meters above sea level). Temperatures ranged between 2 - 4°C (35 - 39°F), although the snow did not stay around for long.

2.2. When does it snow in Vietnam?

Vietnam in winter (December - February) occasionally sees snowfall, but only under very specific conditions. This rare phenomenon occurs exclusively in the highest mountainous areas of northern Vietnam, where temperatures can briefly drop low enough for snow. During these cold spells, snow typically falls for just a few hours or days, creating a thin white layer that often mixes with rain or sleet. The skies usually remain heavily overcast, with little to no sunshine. While temperatures only range from -5°C to -1°C (23°F to 30°F), the high humidity makes the cold feel much more intense.

So, if you are hoping to see snow in Vietnam, your best chance would be in those mountainous areas in northern Vietnam during the peak of winter (December - January).

3. Where can you see snow in Vietnam?

Besides “Does it snow in Vietnam?,” you might want to know where you can see it if you are planning for Vietnam travel in winter.

3.1. Sapa (Lao Cai)

Sapa, located in Lao Cai Province, sits near Fansipan Mountain, which is the highest peak in Indochina (3,143 meters). The weather in Sapa during winter can get very cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing. This is when snow in Sapa or frost can appear, making it a popular spot for those wanting to see snow in Vietnam. From Sapa, you can take a cable car that runs directly up Fansipan Mountain.

3.2. Ha Giang

Ha Giang ranks among the coldest provinces in Vietnam in winter. The temperature drops low enough for frost and even snow to appear, particularly in Meo Vac, Dong Van, or Tay Con Linh. Compared to other spots for seeing snow in Vietnam, the road to Tay Con Linh is quite challenging. But the reward is worth it! The snow, covering every branch and blade of grass, creates a true winter wonderland right in Vietnam.

Northern Vietnam’s mountains snow in winter

3.3. Mau Son (Lang Son)

In Mau Son, Lang Son, winter temperatures sometimes drop below freezing, bringing frost and potentially snow. If you are going to come here, you should be careful. The authorities recommend wearing shoes with good grip because the roads can be icy and slippery. Drivers need to watch out for frozen patches. Due to the high humidity, there is a risk of cold shock, so it is important to dress warmly to protect yourself.

3.4. Phia Oac (Cao Bang)

Phia Oac, the highest peak in Cao Bang, stands over 1,900 meters above sea level. The weather here is cool in summer but gets very cold in winter. It is a favorite spot for those who want to see snow in Vietnam during the coldest months. From late December to January, temperatures can drop below freezing. During this time, frost, snow, and light snow rain can appear, creating stunning winter views.

Phia Oac is considered one of the coldest places in Vietnam

3.5. Ta Xua (Son La)

Ta Xua in Son La is one of the rare places where snow can appear in Vietnam. In winter, temperatures at Ta Xua can drop very low, sometimes bringing frost or snow. With its endless mountains and misty clouds, Ta Xua is a special spot for those wondering, “Where does it snow in Vietnam?” However, the winter weather on the mountain can be harsh and change quickly. If conditions get bad, it is best to turn back to stay safe.

3.6. Y Ty (Lao Cai)

Y Ty in Lao Cai is a popular destination for those eager to see snow in Vietnam. The landscapes here are mountainous and misty, adding to the magical winter atmosphere when snow covers the fields and forests. Getting to Y Ty involves traveling by road from the center of Lao Cai, with some parts requiring careful driving due to the winding mountain roads. Despite this, the journey is well worth it.

Spend a wonderful winter in Vietnam by visiting Y Ty

>>> Read more: Vietnam sightseeing: Best destinations to put on your radar

4. What to prepare when going snow hunting in Vietnam?

Now that you know the answers to “Does it snow in Vietnam?,” it is important to have a good idea of what to wear in Vietnam in December. Here is a simple Vietnam packing list to keep you warm:

Clothing: Bring a base layer, a thermal layer, an insulating layer, and a windproof outer layer. Tight-fitting pants underneath help hold the body heat better.
Footwear: Choose shoes with thick insulation to keep your feet warm. Make sure the soles have good grip to prevent slipping on wet surfaces.
Heat packs: Carry heat packs to stick on your lower back or the soles of your feet. Each heat pack usually lasts around eight hours.
Thermos with hot drinks: Bring a thermos filled with hot water or ginger tea. The hot drinks help maintain your body temperature in the cold weather.
Medicine: Pack basic medicine like digestive aids, cold medicine, and a bottle of medicated oil just in case.

What to prepare when going snow hunting in Vietnam

5. Tips for successfully hunting snow in Vietnam

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your snow hunting trip in addition to knowing “Does it snow in Vietnam?”:

Only make your trip after you have seen official weather updates confirming the snow.
Plan to stay for several days at a location where snow is possible to avoid missing out on brief snowfall.
Be flexible with your schedule and be ready to move quickly once snow is predicted.
Consider hiring a local guide who knows the area well and can help you reach the best snow-viewing spots safely.
Check the weather updates frequently and stay in touch with a local guide for the latest information.

>>> Note these essential travel to Vietnam tips

Does it snow in Vietnam? Yes, but only in certain northern mountains during the coldest months. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable snow hunting experience.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a warmer getaway, destinations like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Da Nang offer beautiful beaches. In these destinations, the hotel and resort system of Vinpearl gives you access to excellent amenities, plus easy entry to VinWonders, a series of top-rated entertainment complexes. Whether you want to explore snowy mountains or relax by the sea, Vietnam has something special for everyone.