Things to Do in Hochiminhcity in February

February Weather in Hochiminhcity

32°C (90°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

15 mm (0.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - only 3 rainy days and 15 mm (0.6 inches) total precipitation makes outdoor activities reliable
Ideal temperatures of 32°C (90°F) during day, cooling to comfortable 23°C (73°F) at night - perfect for all-day exploration without extreme heat
Peak motorbike weather with clear roads and excellent visibility for exploring the city and Cu Chi Tunnels
Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations in late January/early February create incredible cultural experiences with dragon dances, special foods, and decorated streets

Considerations

High tourist season means 40-60% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions like Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum
Strong UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and makes midday outdoor activities challenging without proper preparation
Many local businesses close for 3-7 days during Tet holiday period, limiting some authentic local experiences

Best Activities in February

Mekong Delta Day Tours

February's dry conditions make the 70 km (43 mile) journey to the delta ideal with clear roads and low water levels perfect for exploring floating markets and fruit orchards. Morning temperatures of 28°C (82°F) are perfect for boat rides through the canals. Water levels are stable, making navigation safe and reliable.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators. Full-day tours typically cost ₫800,000-1,200,000 (US$32-48). Look for operators including Can Tho floating market and traditional candy workshops. See current tour options in booking section below.

Cu Chi Tunnels Underground Exploration

Dry February weather means the tunnel systems are at their most accessible with minimal mud and flooding. The 30 km (18.6 mile) drive northwest is smooth on dry roads. Underground temperatures stay cool at 24°C (75°F) while surface temperatures reach 32°C (90°F), making the tunnels a welcome respite.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost ₫600,000-900,000 (US$24-36). Book morning departures to avoid afternoon heat. Licensed guides provide historical context and safety equipment. See current options in booking section below.

Saigon Street Food Evening Tours

February's comfortable evening temperatures of 25°C (77°F) make walking between food stalls pleasant. Dry conditions mean outdoor seating is always available. This is peak season for tropical fruits like dragon fruit and rambutan. Evening tours avoid the day's 32°C (90°F) heat.

Booking Tip: 3-4 hour evening tours typically cost ₫700,000-1,000,000 (US$28-40). Start after 6pm when temperatures drop. Look for tours covering District 1, 3, and 4. Book through licensed food tour operators. See current options in booking section below.

Cao Dai Temple and Tay Ninh Province Tours

The 90 km (56 mile) drive to Tay Ninh is most comfortable in February's dry conditions. The unique Cao Dai religion's noon prayer ceremony is perfectly timed - you'll arrive refreshed despite the morning heat. Temple interiors stay cool while outdoor temperatures reach 33°C (91°F).

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost ₫900,000-1,300,000 (US$36-52). Combine with Cu Chi Tunnels for efficiency. Book tours arriving for the 12pm prayer ceremony. Licensed guides explain the unique religious practices. See current options in booking section below.

Saigon River Evening Cruises

February's minimal rainfall means reliable sunset cruises with clear views of the city skyline. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable 27°C (81°F) on the water with cooling river breezes. Dry season ensures consistent departure schedules without weather cancellations.

Booking Tip: 2-3 hour dinner cruises cost ₫600,000-1,200,000 (US$24-48). Book sunset cruises departing 5:30-6pm. Look for traditional wooden boats or modern vessels with air conditioning. See current options in booking section below.

Cyclo Tours Through Historic Districts

February's clear skies and minimal rain make cyclo rides through District 1's narrow streets ideal. Comfortable morning temperatures of 28°C (82°F) are perfect for slow-paced touring. Dry conditions mean unobstructed photography of French colonial architecture and local street life.

Booking Tip: 2-3 hour tours typically cost ₫400,000-600,000 (US$16-24). Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat. Negotiate fixed prices beforehand. Licensed operators provide knowledgeable guides. See current options in booking section below.

February Events & Festivals

Early February (varies by lunar calendar)

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year)

Vietnam's most important celebration transforms the city with elaborate decorations, dragon dances, and traditional foods like banh chung. Nguyen Hue Flower Street becomes a massive outdoor festival. Many locals return to family homes, making this an authentic cultural experience.

Early to Mid February

Tet Festival at Tao Dan Park

Traditional games, calligraphy demonstrations, and cultural performances happen throughout the Tet period. Local families gather for traditional activities, and vendors sell special Tet foods like mut (candied fruits) and che (sweet soups).

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 daily with minimal cloud cover for protection

Lightweight cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps heat and moisture

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - brief afternoon showers occur 3 days but are intense

Comfortable walking shoes with breathable mesh - you'll walk 8-12 km (5-7.5 miles) daily on hot pavement

Wide-brimmed hat - essential for midday temple visits and outdoor market browsing

Mosquito repellent with DEET - evening temperatures of 25°C (77°F) bring out insects in parks and riverside areas

Light sweater for air-conditioned spaces - restaurants and malls keep temperatures at 20°C (68°F), a 12°C (22°F) difference from outside

Quick-dry shorts or pants - humidity makes cotton take hours to dry after brief rain

Portable fan or cooling towel - for motorbike rides and walking in 32°C (90°F) afternoon heat

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during unexpected showers and high humidity

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early December - February is peak season with prices 40-60% higher than low season months like September-October

Avoid traveling during the first 3 days of Tet when banks, many restaurants, and tourist services close - plan around lunar calendar dates

Start outdoor activities by 8am to finish before 32°C (90°F) afternoon heat - locals follow this schedule religiously

Use Grab bike instead of cyclos for distances over 2 km (1.2 miles) - faster, cheaper at ₫15,000-25,000 vs ₫100,000+ for cyclos, and drivers know traffic patterns better

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for air conditioning - the 12°C (22°F) temperature difference between outdoors and shopping malls/restaurants causes discomfort without light layers

Planning outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when temperatures peak at 32°C (90°F) and UV index is highest - even locals avoid this time

Not booking Mekong Delta tours early enough - February is peak season and quality operators fill up 5-7 days ahead