Weather
Cambodia experiences two main seasons (with some monthly and geographic variation), and February is in the middle of the cooler dry season. However, as Cambodia is a tropical country, it experiences warm-to-hot temperatures year-round. And while not geographically large, there is some variation between the temperatures and climate in the mountains, the lowlands, and the coast. Temperatures in the highlands of the Cardamom Mountains or the Dangrek Mountains are cooler than on the lower-lying plains, where most of Cambodia's towns and cities are, including the capital, Phnom Penh.
Average February temperatures in Phnom Penh are around 81°F (27°C), which is a couple of degrees warmer than in January. Rainfall is also very low this month but slightly higher than the previous month. There may be a chance of a shower, but you'll generally experience clear skies in February.
Crowds & Costs
With weather conditions that are ideal for sightseeing and lounging on a beach, February is the middle of the peak season in Cambodia. The temples of Angkor Wat are always popular but get especially crowded in the cool season. Book accommodation in nearby Siem Reap well in advance for February travel. The same applies in many other parts of the country, including the coastal beach resorts around Sihanoukville and the offshore islands, Battambang, Kampot, and Phnom Penh.
Prices of accommodation and transport will generally be higher in February—and throughout the cool season than in the low season—but Cambodia is still a very affordable destination. Many smaller, locally run hotels and guesthouses will remain at a good value even in high season. Just be sure to book your first choice well in advance if you're visiting this month. And though Cambodia has its own New Years (in April), it can still get busy during the Lunar New Year, celebrated by Cambodians of Chinese or Vietnamese ancestry, which can fall in early February.
Where to Go
The dry, cooler weather means the conditions are ideal for walking or cycling around the enormous Angkor Wat complex near the modern city of Siem Reap.
The conditions in February also make it ideal for outdoor activities beyond cycling. Cambodia isn't extensively developed, so there are many options for escaping into nature. Active travelers might want to hike at Phnom Kulen, a sacred peak that's said to be where the Khmer empire began. As it's near Siem Reap, consider combining your excursion with a few days in Angkor Wat. Hiking up the mountain, you'll come across pagodas, natural springs, a bat cave, large carved stone animals, and beautiful views. The Phnom Kulen Waterfall is a great stop for a refreshing swim on the way down.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
A popular way of getting around the large site of Angkor Wat is by bike. The terrain is generally flat, and the traffic is not too treacherous. Cycling is also quite comfortable in the cooler conditions of February. Many hotels in Siem Reap rent out bikes to guests, either for free or for a fee (pro tip: if they're free, likely the condition is less than great. Give your bike a once over before heading out).
Another excellent option for February travel is to chill at a beach. Although the beaches of Cambodia may not be as famous as neighboring Thailand, they're just as lovely and often less developed. February isn't the hottest time of year, but the skies will be clear and conditions good for swimming and lounging on a beach. The beaches near Sihanoukville are under threat from rampant development, but the white sands and clear seas of nearby islands Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, Koh Ta Kiev, and Koh Russey (Bamboo Island) are appealing.
Events in February
Lunar New Year, nationwide. Cambodians with Chinese or Vietnamese ancestry celebrate Lunar New Year in late January or early February. People gather with their families to eat, drink, and play games. It's not an official public holiday in Cambodia, though.
Traveling to Cambodia in February? Check out these great itineraries
Active Highlights of Cambodia: Siem Reap & Phnom Penh - 8 Days. Perfect for active travelers, this 8-day itinerary combines Cambodia's most iconic highlights with memorable off-the-beaten-path excursions. Start in Siem Reap, where you'll trek through the little-seen trails and temples of Angkor and hike to the sacred peak of Phnom Kulen.
Culture & Nature of Cambodia: Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, Cardamom Mountains & More - 15 Days. Explore remote temples hidden in the jungle, ride bicycles through rice paddies and past traditional stilted houses, and go on boat trips to waterfalls and remote fishing villages on this 15-day culture and nature tour through Cambodia.
More Helpful Information
Cambodia in January
Cambodia in March
Cambodia Tours & Itineraries