1. When to cruise the Mekong
2. A sense of tranquility
3. Seasonal festivals
4. Nature at its loveliest
5. Deeper immersions in local life
6. Relish life on board
7. Exclusive promotions

Cruising Southeast Asia’s longest waterway and exploring the timeless local riverine life, cultural treasures and enchanting landscapes of southern Vietnam and Cambodia promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Flowing through six countries from its Tibetan Plateau source draining into Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, the Mekong is one of the world’s most spectacular rivers. This mighty river is an essential lifeline to those who reside along its banks, bringing life and trade to millions of people. Even today, the Mekong in many parts supports a rural, traditional way of life and a myriad of farming and fishing communities. 

The Mekong River is also a magical pathway that transcends every season and makes an inspiring river journey across this spectacular region throughout the year.  Regardless of which season you choose to visit, a Mekong River cruise promises wondrous experiences and encounters; however, you may wish to consider the best time to go depending on what your priorities are while travelling.   

Southern Vietnam and Cambodia share a similar tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius throughout the year and two distinct seasons – wet and dry. The dry season runs from November to April, typically with slightly cooler temperatures and relatively little rain, while the wet or rainy season – also known as the ‘green season’ – runs from approximately May to October, when the region experiences its main rainfall and bursts into life.    

Many tend to overlook travelling in the green season, concerned that the rains may hamper their travel plans; however, rain rarely affects travel across the Southeast Asia region and you’ll always find something of interest to see or do while exploring the Mekong. Even though the rainfall is generally heavier, particularly from June to August, it invariably arrives in short, intense downpours, mainly in the afternoon, before clearing. You’ll find the rain is quite refreshing, keeping the tropical Asian heat at bay.

For those looking to escape the crowds, the green season makes a delightful time of year to travel. You can immerse yourself in the region’s cultural attractions and historic sites as well as major landmarks and natural wonders, experiencing a more tranquil setting and authentic local feel, without the usual hustle and bustle of peak times. 

This is true for Emerald Cruises main ports of call, Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, two vibrant cities in Vietnam and Cambodia respectively, that bookend this mesmerising Mekong voyage. Enjoy exploring the city’s temples, museums, historic legacies and more, with fewer visitors around and relish better opportunities for interactions with amiable residents at the local markets and cafés. If you join our land tour in Siem Reap (northern Cambodia), during these off-peak months, you’ll notice a marked decrease in visitor numbers at key sites such as Angkor Archeological Park. Explore the countless ancient temples and monuments within this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed complex, including world-renowned Angkor Wat, at a less-hurried pace, soaking up the full cultural experience.

You’ll also contribute to alleviating pressure on popular destinations during peak season and sustain tourism and local communities and businesses year-round – allowing local economies to thrive across all seasons.

Embrace the joy of some of Southeast Asia’s festivities that celebrate this seasonal weather change and its vital impact on cultivation. In Ho Chi Minh City, the Mid-Autumn Festival (depending on the Lunar calendar, between early September and October) creates a festive buzz on the streets with brightly coloured lanterns, lion dancing and traditional mooncakes. Cambodia’s Khmer Water Festival (held over three days in late October or November), commemorates the rainy season’s conclusion. The biggest celebrations take place in the capital, Phnom Penh, with street parades, fireworks and dragon boat races alongside the grand Royal Palace.

As the name implies, during the green season, the scenery in Cambodia and Vietnam is arguably at its lushest and most picturesque. Thanks to intermittent downpours replenishing the earth, the dust dissipates and everything seems to have a clean and refreshing feel to it. The rejuvenated countryside erupts into vibrancy, with orchards laden with succulent fruits and tropical flowers such as the lotus, frangipani and champak in full bloom, while Asia’s quintessential rice fields turn a kaleidoscope of greens. 

Attractions such as the 12th century Angkor Wat appear even more stunning: the grey-stone temple complex contrasting with a backdrop of vivid green scenery and its surrounding moats full, perfect for that iconic shot of the five-tower structure reflected in the water. This is also the best time to spot native birds such as egrets and kingfishers and fauna, or creatures such as exquisite butterflies. 

The green season is perhaps your best time to visit some of the attractions covered on Emerald Cruises’ special DiscoverMORE excursions (at additional cost). Within the Mekong Delta’s Tram Chim National Park, the internationally-acclaimed Tam Nong Ramsar Bird Sanctuary is home to approximately a quarter of Vietnam’s bird species, with many of them, including endangered varieties, coming to breed here during the rainy season.

As you glide through this submerged forest by boat, observe the wondrous bird life and fields of pink lotuses in flower. Beyond Siem Reap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and UNESCO Biosphere Site, Tonlé Sap, swells up to seven times its normal size, the ideal time to witness the captivating floating villages and rare water birds by boat.

Rivers and waterways have personalities of their own and are subject to variations in water levels throughout the year – and the mighty Mekong is no exception. The innovative Emerald Harmony, however, is specially designed to navigate the Mekong River, whatever the season. The Mekong’s water levels are higher during the green season, which can work to your advantage, making easier access to the riverbanks and disembarking for onshore visits more convenient, bringing you instantly into local riverine life.

Additionally, forays by small craft deeper into the Mekong Delta’s extensive network of slender canals and waterways during this time of year provide even better access to the more off-the-beaten-path communities, picturesque rural landscapes and memorable local immersions.

Even when it is raining, what better time to make the most of the world-class facilities and exceptional service levels on board your luxurious river cruise ship – a private and serene sanctuary after the day’s intoxicating buzz of Southeast Asia.  

Slow down and leisurely linger over mouthwatering dishes imbued with authentic regional flavours at the signature restaurant. Or take time to relax and rejuvenate in the serene wellness area: indulging in blissful, Asian-inspired treatments – from Khmer massage rituals to luscious body scrubs incorporating freshly-sourced ingredients – or a glamorous Mani-Pedi at the salon.

Finally, make the most of exclusive promotions during this magical season. Emerald Cruises operates a special 10-Day Meandering Majestic Mekong Cruise itinerary in the green season, from late July to mid-October – an extension of the popular 8-Day Majestic Mekong Cruise. This unique green season cruise offers an additional two nights on the Mekong River, promising a more leisurely pace and more daytime cruising – yet you only pay for eight days cruising. Relish a port of call to the historical Khmer village of Angkor Ban, in rural southern Cambodia, visiting a local school and Buddhist temple, receiving a traditional blessing from a resident monk. And ample time for cruising the bustling Cho Gao Canal, one of Vietnam’s major arterial waterways, a fascinating watch of countless cargo barges, fishing boats and other craft passing by.

If you’d like to extend your time in Southeast Asia, look for the green season departures on the Grand Tour of Vietnam & Cambodia, Treasures & Temples of Vietnam & Cambodia, or Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong cruise tours from July to October. Again, enjoy a bonus extra two cruise days, along with extraordinary Asian experiences, such as a 2-night Halong Bay cruise in northern Vietnam and temple hopping in Siem Reap.