Cambodia weather in February

February keeps Cambodia firmly in the dry season: abundant sunshine, very low rainfall and comfortably warm days that edge hotter than January. Expect clear mornings for Angkor sunrises, calm seas along the south coast, and manageable conditions in the north-east highlands. It’s a peak month across the country, so plan early starts for temples and leave the hottest hours for museums, lunch or a pool break.

Cambodia weather in February – Angkor Wat in dry season

February Quick Facts — Cambodia
Siem Reap: ~22–33 °C; rainfall ~10 mm (≈0–1 rain day).
Phnom Penh: ~23–34 °C; very dry; hazy afternoons possible.
South coast & islands (Sihanoukville/Koh Rong): sea ~28–29 °C, generally calm and clear.
Based on multi-year climate normals for February.

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1. February Weather Overview (What to Expect)

Cambodia’s dry season runs roughly November–April. February is reliably sunny and dry with slightly warmer days than January. Northern and central plains feel hot by mid-afternoon, while coastal breezes keep the south comfortable. In the north-east (Mondulkiri/Ratanakiri), mornings are pleasantly cool and trails are dry.

  • Rainfall: very low country-wide; brief light showers are uncommon.
  • Temperatures: daytime highs often 31–34 °C in Siem Reap/Phnom Penh; highs ~32–33 °C in the highlands; nights ~20–23 °C.
  • Humidity: lower than later months; haze can build in cities on still afternoons.
  • Beach & Sea: calm seas on the Gulf of Thailand; water ~28–29 °C — ideal for swimming/snorkeling.
  • Comfort level: high in the mornings/evenings; plan shade or indoor time around noon.

February Climate Snapshot by Region

Region / Base Average High (°C) Average Low (°C) Rainfall (mm) Rain Days Humidity (%) Sea Temp (°C)
Siem Reap (Angkor) 33 22 ~10 0–1 60–65
Phnom Penh (Capital) 34 23 ~10 0–1 58–62
Sihanoukville / Kep / Kampot 31 24 ~10–15 0–2 65–70 28–29
Mondulkiri / Ratanakiri (Highlands) 32–33 20–21 ~5–10 0–1 55–60

2. Where to Go in February (Best-Fit by Traveller Type)

With dry skies from the Tonlé Sap to the Gulf of Thailand, February is a safe bet almost everywhere. Use this quick selector to match your style to the right region:

Traveller Profile Go Here Why in February Top Experiences
First-timers & culture lovers Siem Reap (Angkor) Very low rain; crisp dawn light; longer comfortable mornings Angkor sunrise, Ta Prohm, Bayon faces, countryside cycling
City & food Phnom Penh Dry evenings on Sisowath Quay; minimal showers Royal Palace, National Museum, craft coffee & street-food
Beach & snorkelling Kep, Kampot & islands off Sihanoukville Warm, clear water; calm seas Kep crab market, Kampot pepper farms, Koh Rong/Koh Rong Samloem
Wildlife & soft adventure Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri Cool mornings; dry trails; comfortable waterfall flows Ethical elephant sanctuaries (no riding), hill-tribe villages, crater lakes

Siem Reap & Angkor

Dawn conditions are excellent for photography at Angkor Wat. As temperatures climb late morning, save shaded bas-reliefs (Bayon, Angkor Thom) for mid-day or break for a swim before a golden-hour circuit. Advance sunrise entry and a late-afternoon temple slot work best in peak season.

Phnom Penh

The capital is warm and mostly dry. Riverside walks along Sisowath Quay are breezy; museums are ideal for the hottest hours. For Tuol Sleng or Choeung Ek, consider early morning starts.

Kep, Kampot & the Islands

February brings steady sunshine and hot, calm water (~28–29 °C). Mix lazy beach days with Kampot pepper farm visits and boat time to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for snorkelling.

Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri

High-elevation mornings can be cool (near 20 °C). Dry trails and lighter vegetation make wildlife spotting easier. Choose observe-and-walk elephant programs and avoid any riding activities.

3. Events & Festive Notes in February

  • Meak Bochea (Buddhist festival; date varies by lunar calendar). It’s widely observed at pagodas (candlelit processions), though it hasn’t been an official public holiday since 2020. Recent examples: ~12 Feb 2025 (observed); ~02 Feb 2026 (estimated). Check exact dates if you plan to attend.
  • Lunar/Chinese New Year (varies): falls on 17 Feb 2026; expect fuller flights/rooms around that week in regional hubs. In 2025 it fell on 29 Jan, so February impact was minimal.
  • Beaches & islands: sunset boats and beach barbecues are in full swing through the dry season.

4. Practical Tips for February Travellers

  • Packing list: breathable clothing, sun hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses; a light layer for cool highland mornings.
  • Temple etiquette: shoulders and knees covered; carry a light cover-up.
  • Heat strategy: plan outdoors 06:00–10:30 & 15:30–18:30; keep mid-day for museums/lunch/pool.
  • Peak season: pre-book sunrise temple slots and coastal stays.
  • Hydration: refillable bottle; many hotels provide water stations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (February, Cambodia)

Is February a good month to visit Cambodia?

Yes — one of the best. Expect very low rainfall, bright mornings and warm seas along the south coast. It’s peak season, so book popular hotels and guides in advance.

How hot is Siem Reap in February?

Typically 22–33 °C across the day. It feels hottest around noon; mornings and late afternoons are comfortable for long temple walks.

What is the sea temperature in February?

Around 28–29 °C off Sihanoukville and the islands — perfect for swimming and snorkelling, with generally calm water.

Where should I go in February?

For culture, Siem Reap (Angkor). For beaches, Kep, Kampot and the islands off Sihanoukville. For cooler mornings and light adventure, head to Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri.

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