When you think of winter, maybe you picture cold winds and heavy coats. Kampot, Cambodia, though, gives you a totally different vibe.
Winter in Kampot stays warm, with average temperatures hanging out in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. It’s honestly one of the most comfortable times to be outside. You’ll get less rain than during the long wet months, so the skies clear up and the weather gets a lot more reliable.
Winter in Kampot isn’t about escaping the cold—it’s more about soaking up a calmer stretch of the year. Rainfall drops off pretty fast, the humidity doesn’t feel quite as intense, and the clouds start to thin out, especially from December to February.
These conditions hit a sweet spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventures. It’s just easy to appreciate.
With steady daylight hours and gentle breezes, winter weather makes daily life feel a bit easier. Whether you’re wandering along Kampot’s riverside, checking out the famous pepper farms, or just breathing in the coastal air, the season keeps things steady and planning feels simple.
Overview of Kampot’s Winter Climate
Kampot’s winter months bring steadier weather—slightly cooler, less rainy, and way more sunshine than the rest of the year. You get warm days, mild nights, and less cloud cover, which makes being outside a lot more enjoyable.
Climate Classification and Geography
Kampot sits in southern Cambodia, close to the Gulf of Thailand, and is just about 5 meters above sea level. The town falls under a tropical monsoon climate (Am) in the Köppen system.
So, you’ll notice distinct wet and dry seasons instead of wild temperature swings.
Being close to the coast, Kampot gets sea breezes that help keep the heat in check. Inland Cambodia can feel way hotter during the day, but Kampot stays a bit more even.
Mountains nearby also play their part—they trap moisture in the rainy season but let the skies clear up in winter.
The climate classification doesn’t change in winter, but the season cuts down rainfall and cloud cover. Geography really matters here, since the sea and hills help keep things mild and pretty predictable compared to other spots in the country.
Typical Winter Weather Patterns
Winter in Kampot usually runs from December through February. Highs during the day average around 84–86°F (29–30°C), and lows dip to about 75–76°F (24°C).
The heat just feels less harsh than in the wet season because humidity drops and breezes are more consistent.
Rain almost disappears. For example, January only gets about 0.5 inches of rain and maybe 2–3 wet days. February often turns out to be the sunniest month, with nearly half the days mostly clear.
Humidity stays high, but with less rain, it feels a bit more comfortable. You’ll notice long dry stretches, which is why so many travelers show up for river tours, outdoor trips, and beach days.
How Winter Differs from Other Seasons
The wet season (May–October) brings heavy downpours and endless cloudy skies. Winter, on the other hand, gives you long dry spells, lighter winds, and much more sunshine.
The chance of rain drops to less than 10% in January. In August, it’s over 70%. That’s a big difference.
Temperatures don’t swing wildly throughout the year, but the surrounding conditions do. In summer, high humidity and storms make 85°F feel sticky and tough. In winter, the air clears up and evenings are just easier to enjoy.
Winds shift too. August is the windiest, averaging about 9.5 mph. By January, things calm down to 6.0 mph. That stability makes winter the best time to plan trips or get outside in Kampot.
Average Winter Temperatures in Kampot
Winter in Kampot feels warm and steady, with only small changes between day and night. December, January, and February all look pretty similar, and temperatures rarely drop outside a narrow range.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperature Ranges
During winter, daytime highs usually stay between 84°F and 86°F (29°C–30°C). The air feels warm, but it’s not extreme like in April and May.
At night, you’ll see temperatures drop to 75°F–76°F (24°C). Evenings are comfortable, though humidity can still make the air feel a bit heavy. You won’t need anything heavy to wear, but a light layer might help if you’re out late.
Because the day-night difference is small, the city keeps a steady climate. Unlike places with big nighttime drops, Kampot’s coastal spot and tropical climate keep things pretty consistent.
Monthly Temperature Trends
Winter months in Kampot don’t change much.
- December: Highs around 84°F, lows about 75°F
- January: Highs about 84°F, lows near 75°F
- February: Highs up to 86°F, lows around 76°F
February gets a little warmer as spring approaches. December and January stay slightly cooler, which some people might prefer for outdoor stuff.
You won’t see extreme heat or heavy rain in winter. The steady temperatures make it easy to plan, since you can expect similar weather all season.
Comparison to Cambodia’s National Averages
Kampot’s winter temperatures are close to Cambodia’s national averages, but they sit a bit lower than what you’ll find in inland cities. Phnom Penh, for example, often hits 86°F–88°F (30°C–31°C) in January, while Kampot stays 1–2 degrees cooler.
That’s the coastal effect. The Gulf of Thailand keeps things from getting too hot or too cool.
Compared to northern spots like Siem Reap, Kampot avoids big temperature swings between day and night. You get a more even climate, which makes winter weather in Kampot predictable and comfortable for travel.
Precipitation and Rainfall Patterns in Winter
Kampot’s winter months are some of the driest all year. Rainfall totals drop, rainy days get rare, and the weather becomes way more predictable than during the long wet season.
Humidity still hangs around, but with fewer storms, being outside feels nicer.
Rainfall Amounts and Frequency
Winter rainfall in Kampot drops off quickly compared to the monsoon months. January and February are the driest, with about 30–40 mm of rain each. December brings a few leftover showers, but nothing like September or October.
You might run into a quick shower, but they’re brief and usually not a big deal. Most rain falls at night or early morning, so daytime stays dry for sightseeing or travel.
Rainy days are rare. Instead of the 15–20 wet days you get in the rainy season, winter usually brings only 3–6 rainy days a month. That means more long dry stretches, which most visitors love.
Humidity Levels and Dew Point
Even in the dry season, Kampot stays pretty humid because of its tropical climate and proximity to the Gulf. Average humidity runs between 70–80%, so afternoons can still feel sticky.
The dew point, which tells you how humid the air feels, usually sits around 22–24°C in winter. It’s still moist, but not as bad as the monsoon months when things get really muggy.
Mornings feel cooler and more comfortable, while afternoons stay warm and a bit muggy. The sea breezes along the river help ease the humidity, especially in open spots. For most travelers, the air feels manageable compared to the heavy dampness of the wet season.
Dry Days Versus Rainy Days
Winter stands out for its dry days. December might see 6–8 wet days, but January and February drop to just 3–4 days. Most days are totally dry, so you don’t have to worry about sudden downpours.
Dry days are sunnier, too. January averages about 8–9 hours of sunshine daily, while the rainy season drops below 5 hours. That’s great for river trips, market visits, or checking out pepper farms.
When rain does fall, it’s usually just a quick shower, not a long storm. You can often work around it, since it passes fast. This mix of mostly dry days with a few short showers makes winter the most stable season for enjoying Kampot’s weather.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Hours During Winter
Winter in Kampot means less rain, clearer skies, and more stable weather than the wet season. You’ll see moderate cloud cover, longer sunshine hours, and steady visibility, making it a great time for outdoor activities and travel.
Average Cloudiness by Month
From December to February, cloud cover lightens up compared to the rainy months. December can still feel a bit humid, but it’s way clearer than September or October.
By January, skies reach their clearest point, making the month especially bright.
February keeps things going with mostly clear or partly cloudy days. Some afternoon haze can pop up, but thick overcast is rare.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- December: partly cloudy, with some haze
- January: clearest skies, not much overcast
- February: mostly clear, occasional afternoon haze
This gives you predictable bright mornings and warm, less humid evenings.
Sunshine Duration and Brightness
Sunshine hours go up in winter, so you get more daylight for exploring. January brings about 9 hours of sunshine a day, the most of any month. December is a bit less, but still close to 8 hours.
February keeps the long daylight going, often with clearer skies. The sun can get intense at midday, so morning or late afternoon activities feel more comfortable.
Here’s a quick look at daily sunshine:
| Month | Avg. Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|
| December | ~7.9–8.0 hours |
| January | ~9.0 hours |
| February | ~8.5–9.0 hours |
These long daylight hours make winter the most reliable season for sightseeing and riverfront walks in Kampot.
Visibility and Wind Conditions
Visibility in Kampot during winter is usually good, often between 8 and 10 kilometers on clear days. Lower humidity compared to the wet season keeps the air clearer, especially in the mornings.
Winds stay light in December, then pick up a bit in January and February. Breezes usually blow in from the northeast, bringing drier air. These winds help take the edge off the humidity and make the warmth feel more comfortable.
You might notice stronger gusts near the coast or open fields, but riverfront areas stay calmer. This mix of clear visibility and light winds creates great conditions for walking, cycling, or boating along the Kampot River.
Impacts of Winter Weather on Daily Life in Kampot
Mild temperatures, high humidity, and less rain shape daily routines in Kampot during winter. These weather patterns affect how people spend time outside and how local farmers go about their work.
Outdoor Activities and Tourism
Winter in Kampot brings daytime highs around 84–85°F (29°C) and cooler nights near 75–76°F (24°C). The air stays humid, but rain chances drop off, making it easier to plan things without weather getting in the way.
By late January and February, skies clear up with cloud cover dropping to about 53%. That means better visibility for river cruises, mountain hikes, and trips to Bokor National Park.
Beaches and nearby islands are more appealing too, with calmer seas and steady water temperatures around 82–83°F (28°C).
Tourism gets a bump this time of year. Restaurants, guesthouses, and tour operators brace for busier days, and outdoor markets stay lively in the cooler evenings. The steady warmth means you can bike, kayak, or stroll through Kampot’s old town without sweating through extreme heat or dodging heavy rain.
Effects on Local Agriculture
Farmers in Kampot count on the dry winter to manage crops like rice, pepper, and fruit. By mid-January, rainfall drops to less than 1 inch per month, so irrigation suddenly matters a lot more.
Most farms pull river water to keep their fields alive, especially those growing Kampot pepper. That crop really defines the region’s identity, doesn’t it?
Temperatures stay pretty steady and rarely dip below 71°F (22°C), which keeps cold stress off the plants. Thanks to this, farmers can grow tropical fruits—durian, mango, banana—throughout the year.
Still, the humidity is no joke. It often sits above 90%, which means pests and fungal problems can pop up fast. Farmers have to keep a close eye on their crops.
Dry winter weather helps with drying and processing harvested peppercorns. Less rain means less spoilage risk during drying, so the famous Kampot pepper keeps its quality.
This season feels pretty good for farm productivity, even if farmers have to juggle water management.
Weather Reports and Forecasts for Kampot’s Winter
Winter in Kampot stays warm, but you’ll notice shorter daylight hours and a lot less rain than the wet season. Reliable forecasts let you plan around cooler mornings, mild afternoons, and the odd change in humidity.
Accessing Up-to-Date Winter Weather Reports
You can get Kampot’s winter weather reports from several trusted sources. Local Cambodian meteorological services share regional updates, while international sites like AccuWeather and Weather.com post daily and weekly forecasts.
A lot of travelers just use mobile apps with real-time satellite data for tracking rain and clouds.
Radio stations and local news outlets give quick weather bulletins in both Khmer and English. These updates come in handy if you’re traveling outside the city and can’t get online.
For a fast check, just look at hotel notice boards or swing by a tourist information center. Many hotels post daily forecasts with highs, lows, and chances of rain.
Key details to note in reports:
- Average temperatures: 27–29°C (81–84°F)
- Daylight: about 11.5–12 hours
- Rainfall: minimal, but occasional showers possible
It’s worth checking a few sources so you can compare info and tweak your plans if the weather changes.
Tips for Interpreting Local Forecasts
When you check a Kampot weather report, look at the daily temperature range instead of just the high. Mornings usually start off cooler, while afternoons warm up fast. This makes it easier to decide what to wear or when to head outside.
Keep an eye on humidity levels too. Humidity often affects how comfortable you feel, sometimes even more than the actual temperature. Even during the dry season, that sticky feeling can sneak up on you and make afternoons seem much hotter.
Rainfall forecasts might show a percentage. That doesn’t mean rain will pour all day, just that there’s a chance of showers somewhere nearby. In Kampot, quick bursts of rain happen a lot, but they usually clear up in less than an hour.
Don’t forget about wind speed and direction. Coastal breezes can really cool things down in the evening, or sometimes mess with your boat plans. If you’re thinking about a river or coastal trip, check for strong winds before you go.
Paying attention to these details helps you get more out of the forecasts and dodge any unexpected weather during your trip.